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FAST CARS AND FAST women come together in this stylish racing game from Namco, makers of the Ridge Racer series.

Featuring authentic licensed cars and with the inclusion real world tracks, R: Racing is set to forge a name for itself in the crowded race game arena. Over recent months we have been fair bombarded with racing car games and if this is your favourite genre then you are likely to have been in hog heaven. This soon to be released game will need something special to raise itself above the pack and early indications are that it may just have the edge.

The graphics are stunning and with the inclusion of some great tracks and racing terrain it looks like Namco has put together a visual feast. As you all know, however, good graphics don't make a good game and a lot of work has been put into new features such as an interactive driver AI system and in-game radio communications between the drivers.

For added spice there is the inclusion of a 'Racing Life?mode where two tough racers (Rena Hayami and Gina Cavalli) play out their fierce rivalry in a series of head-to-head races. This story heats up as other determined competitors arrive to challenge their track supremacy.

There are some 35 beautifully modelled cars with upgrades and modifications available. You can taken them out for a spin over some 14 tracks based on both real world an fictitious locations. You will find yourself travelling at 300km/h through cities and circuits in vehicles that expertly recreate the feel of the cars. You will feel the heaviness of the wheel and the engine noise as well as the air resistance of the car's body.

• Licensed real-world vehicles allow for upgrades and modifications
• 14 tracks from real-world and fantasy locations
• Multiple racing styles including GT, rally and drag
• Reward point system allows for power-ups and unlocking new cars
• 5 Game modes including Racing Life (story mode), event challenge, time attack, arcade and versus
• New 'interactive Driver AI system?enhances realistic racing situations
• In-game radio communications ?incoming transmissions from crew members and rival drivers.

R: Racing is due for release on 25th March. Unfortunately, the GameCube version, featuring a free copy of Nintendo's Miyamoto-developed take on Pac Man, will not be released locally at this stage.

Show me the screenshots!