Hot Wheels World Race (PlayStation 2)

Hot Wheels fans will be pleased with THQ's latest release HOT WHEELS WORLD RACE. The racing game is aimed to satisfy younger race fans by tempting them with the newest Hot Wheels cars. Players compete in high-speed action--racing over a series of intense, gravity-defying circuit races with the winner of each race earning valuable circuit points that let them unlock hidden tracks.

The game has a feel of an arcade game with user-friendly controls, limited graphics that don't change much during the game, and smooth gameplay that may be a bit too easy for experienced players, but brings smiles to the faces of first time gamers.

Single-player mode is a great place to learn the ins and outs of the game, as you take on other Hot Wheels models in a race to the finish line. For the ultimate in racing, the split-screen multiplayer mode will allow kids to challenge their friends. Music by such bands as Smashmouth enhances the adrenaline-pumping excitement.

Overall, the game is very easy for beginning players to pick up and play. It also happens to be one of only a handful of racing games appropriate for a younger audience.