The game begins with the reading of a will. You might think that's an odd way to start a racing game. Jak X continues on from where Jak 2 left off, shortly after the death of the bad guy named Krew. Jak and Daxter are on the scene as familiar characters who get to meet up with the rest of the team (Samos, Torn, Ashelin and Keira). One other character is present at the will reading - Krew's daughter Rayn. As everyone settles down to a glass of wine, the tape recording begins to play. It seems that even in death, Krew's vengeful nature would not rest. After listening to the voice recording, the team are suddenly faced with a terrible dilemma. The wine that they drank was poisoned and there is only one way to get the antidote. They must compete in the Kras City Championship Race. Krew even poisoned his own daughter.

Before the game begins, you're given an introduction to the mechanics of the game, the ins and outs of racing and using your vehicle to move, shoot, boost and jump. Destroying other cars is also something to which you have to become accustomed - you're out there to survive and get the antidote at all costs. It's easy to see why this is more than just a racing game.

Visually, Jak X is beautifully done. Textures are smooth and the animation is superb. The game runs very well with nothing lagging out or jerking around. The environments are detailed and colourful.

The racing car you get to use is basically a weapon on wheels. As you progress through the game, you will encounter the need to grab power-ups as you go. There are all sorts of different power-ups, Blue to boost your car's performance when you need it (similar to nitrus in a real racing car) and Red and Yellow power-ups for the front and back weapons. The weapons are also pretty cool. You get to use a chain-gun and Heat Seekers as well as mines and a Napalm Wall. The game really does feel more like going to war than racing a car, but it's all great fun.

There are about 30 different race tracks in Jak X, all of which are incredibly detailed, not that you will be taking the time to look around. You'll be too busy keeping your opponents off your back and destroying their vehicles to worry about the scenery. There are also 'deathmatch arenas' - open space areas for you and your opponents to really get it on. It's just like a destruction derby except with guns and missiles.