Monday, Nov. 29, 2004

Burnout 3: Takedown

Most driving games tend to reward you for steering clear of other drivers. Not the Burnout franchise. You can still race around a track if you want, but where Burnout 3 (for PlayStation2 and Xbox; $49.88) really excels is in Crash Mode.

Your task here is to speed kamikaze-like into a series of major intersections and create enough dollars' worth of auto carnage to merit a bronze, silver or gold medal. Time slows down at the moment of impact, and you can keep steering your careering car for maximum pileup potential.

Sounds simple, but you will be surprised how often you get to the other side having caused little more than dented fenders. Never knew crashing your car could be fun? One test drive, and you will be a believer.

Ideal for: Anyone with a need for speed