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Review of Colin McRae Rally 3 on PlayStation 2

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Apr 2003
Cover image of Colin McRae Rally 3 on PS2
Gamefings Score: 8.5
Platform: PS2 PS2 logo
Released: 15 Apr 2003
Genre: Racing
Developer: Codemasters
Publisher: Codemasters

Introduction

Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines and prepare your thumbs for an intense workout! Colin McRae Rally 3 has just crashed onto the PS2 scene like your neighbor's unbalanced lawn mower. It's not just a racing game; it's a jaw-dropping, adrenaline-pumping experience that might make you want to trade in your driver's license for a joystick. Buckle up as we take a scenic drive through the nitty-gritty of this high-octane joyride.

Gameplay

If you thought driving was just about brushing your teeth while changing lanes or pretending you don't see that red light, think again! Colin McRae Rally 3 takes you off the beaten path and straight into the thrilling world of rally racing, where mud and extreme cornering rule the day. You jump into some of the most iconic rally cars, screaming down dirt roads that would make any sane person wish they brought a tank instead. Forget grass - we're talking about rocks, gravel, and other terrains that have it out for your suspension. The controls are tighter than most pairs of jeans after a holiday binge. With exquisite handling, even the most novice driver feels like they've just been handed the keys to a McLaren. Feedback from colliding with trees is not just a metaphorical slap on the wrist. After a few crashes, you'll be seeing double - in your bank account and also your vehicle's repair bills! The game features several modes including Championship, Single Race, and Time Trial, catering to your competitive spirit like an overly supportive parent at a spelling bee. You'll have to learn the art of the handbrake turn - it's a magical maneuver that makes you look like a racing god while narrowly avoiding the grand oak tree that you were just inches away from. Did I mention the co-driver? You'll hear their shoutouts: "Left 4, Right 3, Hairpin!" as if they're guiding you through a hedge maze in a nightmare. Do your best to ignore the inevitable screams of panic and focus on conquering the track. Customization options are like a buffet for gearheads. Want snazzy stickers and tuning? You got it! Want your Subaru Impreza to look like a banana? Well, you can! Unleash your creative side, and who knows? Maybe you'll make the coolest ride in town... or the most eye-searingly ugly one on this side of the couch.

Graphics

Let's talk graphics! Colin McRae Rally 3 is like staring at a beautiful sunset through a dirty window. When the code was completed and shipped out like hotcakes toward rally racing enthusiasts, one could hardly complain about the visuals. Sure, the PS2 isn't exactly capable of rendering a Michelin-star meal with all the glisten, but what you get here are stunning landscapes that'll bring a tear to your eye. The trees sway, the dirt flies, and the shadows dance across the road like they're at a rave. The only thing more impressive than the landscapes is your skills. You may notice that the damage model is just satisfying enough to make you feel like a hero when you recover from a slide - or utterly defeated if you plow straight into a pile of rocks on the side. Either way, get ready for some excitement. And let's not forget the soundtrack. It's the kind of music that makes you feel like you can conquer the world... or at least, the next checkpoint in the race. Think of the adrenaline-pumping beats while your face resembles a Picassos of determination. It's as if they combined the sound of an engine roar with the spiritual awakening one gets after watching Fast & Furious too many times.

Conclusion

Overall, Colin McRae Rally 3 is like that spicy curry you never knew you needed - it's hot, exhilarating, and leaves you wanting more! Whether you're looking to channel your inner rally champion or want an excuse to throw a controller because you landed your car upside down on a tree, this game has got you covered. So, grab your buddies, make sure you wear your seatbelt (just kidding), and let's hit the dirt roads! In a world filled with street racers and mega-arcades, Colin McRae Rally 3 stands tall amongst the muck and grime, proudly waving its checkered flag. You might find yourself racing against the limits of reality, while secretly fighting the urge to do a victory lap around your living room after a successful race. For its thrill-infusing gameplay, graphics, and heart-pounding chaos, I award Colin McRae Rally 3 a solid 8.5 out of 10. Get ready for the ride of your life, and remember, your parents warned you about reckless driving for a reason!

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