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The summer hols are noted doldrums for software releases, yet even with much stiffer competition this game (with a title of almost epic proportions) would still be reckoned a very good game. When you load up, you're unpacking a journey, an illusion gamestars can readily latch onto as the coded security bursts into life in the living room.

The 'circuit' race games typified by Talladega and Pitstop II are justifiable favourites but GACCRR takes you away from the confines of the track and sets you loose on Route 66. We are talking the stuff that American road movies are made of.

Think of it... cruising along major highways using all your verve as a rally driver, reacting to the constraints of the weather and speed traps. Taken in isolation, each segment of the program in run-of-the-mill, but knitted together they produce entertainment in depth and that's what game-designing is all about.

You start off by selecting a basic West-to-East route and the opposing field (previous mega-achievements can be loaded back into this hall of fame). You then proceed to the map screen where you indicate the start time and next port of call. Perhaps you feel it's good strategy to avoid night driving or rush-hour traffic, while a diversion might be expedient should the direct route be in the groups of a snarl-up. You get to see the nationwide weather report every time a stage is completed.

The picture changes to a view of the road with your dashboard displayed at the foot. You 'follow' your own car along a 3D road, changing gear in response to the tachometer red-band and wringing the last drop of acceleration from the engine. Of course you need to fill up with gas (or push!) and take account of radar, police speed traps, whilst weaving in and out of the other traffic. Crunch! Off the road with precious seconds ticking by. Nights melt into dawns, green fields give way to deserts and cities loom on the horizon. You'll still be racing come Christmas.