Moto GP3

Fans of the first two MotoGP outings will no doubt be dribbling uncontrollably at the prospect of another addition to the premier racing format, and the third edition is crammed with enough new features, tweaks and polishes to keep both seasoned veterans and biking beginners alike in track-tearing heaven.

As with the first two games, MotoGP 3 is based on the real-life motorcycle racing tour MotoGP, which pits competitors against one aother in a frenetic race across a variety of countries in pursuit of Gold. The adrenaline-burning action takes place on some of the world's most famous tracks, with 21 riders fighting it out in a fancy-handling, hairpin bend-bothering bikeathon that demands equal amounts of Herculean stamina and mind-bending skill.

In amongst the more familiar aspects of the game, MotoGP 3 introduces the all-new Legends mode, which allows you to battle against former MotoGP champions. Similar to the standard Arcade mode, you'll be pitted against legendary racers in a series of time-trials designed to test the niftiest of riders. Old hands will also notice the inclusion of a four-player split-screen mode which, for the first time, allows four MotoGP enthusiasts the opportunity to sort the Evil Knievils from the erm... less cycling proficient.

The classic Challenge mode makes a welcome return with some neat new moves, and 100 different tasks to get your teeth into. Completing these challenges unlocks cool extras, with anything from pics to new characters on offer. There are three levels of difficulty per challenge, with Bronze, Silver and Gold up for grabs, although it's fair to say that Gold will probably reduce you to a gibbering wreck in no time due to its sheer rock-hardness. Best to get to grips with the less er, 'challenging' aspects first.

As well as the brand spanking new challenges, Namco have kindly added five new circuits to the mix, with Portugal, New Zealand, Malaysia, the Czech Republic and Spain all offering up additional tracks.

In addition to selecting your track, there's also the option to choose the type of motorcycle, number of laps, and even the weather conditions to ride in. Graphically, MotoGP 3 is streets ahead of the crowd - highly polished ultra-realistic effects make this an amazingly immersive experience that could find you struggling to distinguish between the game and the real thing. The handling is spot-on, and you'll be hard pushed to find a more immersive and enjoyable bike-racing experience.