ICEMAN666

I picked up 989's new F1 Formula 1 2001 for PS2 last night. . . Here's an abbreviated review (I only played for approximately 35 minutes). . .

As much as possible, I'll try to compare 989's F1 to GT3 and EA's F1 Championship 2000 (for PS2). . .

Graphics: I can honestly say, that 989 DID an excellent job visually. . . Whereas the car detail isn't as good as GT3, its close. . . In addition, the tracks look FANTASTIC. . .It makes EA's F1 2000 look really like a PS 1 game by comparison. . .

One note: The split screen (two player mode) is a noticeably more difficult to view/play than GT3 or EA's F1. . . This game is meant for 1 player. . .

Sound: Awesome, though I like EA's F1 sound a little more. . .

Game play: In quick race mode, the cars seem like they're on glass. Unlike EA's or GT3's F1 cars which seem like they're on rails. . . In the more detailed race modes (where you can adjust the downforce/drag), the cars handle MUCH better. . . Overall, the physics play "true", especially in modes other than quick race. . .

There are four levels of difficulty. The first three allow for driving aids (such as no damage). The "Pro" level (level 4) is quite realistic and one wrong more will have you out of the race immediately. . .

Bottomline: 989's F1 is a great simulator with excellent graphics and sound, but if you're looking for a little more (read slightly better) "arcade" play/ 2 player play, you might want to wait for EA's updated F1 2001 to hit the stores. . .

If GT3 is a 9.5 (always room for improvement), and EA's F1 2000 is a 8.5, then I would rate 989's F1 a 9.1. . .

Incidentally, the only racing game for PS2 that IMO offers the better visuals, 2-player arcade style play, and realistic simulation modes is Namco's Moto GP. . . If it wasn't for the fact that the game only has 5 tracks (and no Aston Martins, NSXs, S2Ks, etc), it would definitely top GT3 in every category. . .