It’s funny how things turn out, isn’t it? The originator of GT 2002 began life on Sega’s now sadly departed Dreamcast, and was created to rival and match the mighty Gran Turismo. Now, have turned their attentions to the Xbox, with the hope of continuing their successes of the software variety on other platforms.

Indeed, Sega will be pleased to note, that the new bundle, featuring this game, and the excellent Jet Set Radio Future, is responsible for pushing of the Xbox to the number two position in the UK, beating by some margin. Indeed, this is perhaps more surprising still, owing to the impressive Sega are up-against on the Xbox. Of course, Microsoft’s console isn’t known for its current depths of titles available, but it does boast some of the best racers available on any format in the shape of Project Gotham and Rallisport Challenge.

Needless to say, GT 2002 is going to have to do far more than merely offer an alternative to the PS2’s games.

The game’s career mode is perhaps the highlight, and it is through this well considered part of the game that the most rewarding fun can be had. Not only does the game come equipped with a whole multitude of options in terms of cars and upgrades, you can even sell your finely tuned machine to another AI team, or trade it with a dealer for a new car. Of course, you’ll need cash to give you such options, and this can be gleaned from success on the track. Not as easy as it may sound as to begin with your measly bank balance won’t afford you a championship winning auto, nor will success bring the cash pouring in – it is a slow and gradual progress, which will see you, your bank balance and your car all improving and growing more competitive. It lasts damned ages, too.

The control and car handling is predictably ace, Sega having evidently noted this much criticised aspect of the original Sega GT. What’s more, the physics seem convincing enough, and the balance of the car realistic without being annoyingly impossible. It’s nice that upgrades to your car are particularly noticeable, while the variety and differences between vehicles is impressive.