It pays to give a game a chance. After a few minutes of playing Redline it's tempting to dismiss it as another insipid racing sim for the Mac.
But the initially uninspiring graphics and stingy choice of six tracks - albeit playable in either direction - shouldn't prevent you from exploring further. Because Redline turns out to be one of the most enthralling car sims we've seen, thanks to its emphasis on gameplay over realism. Redline allows you to play in one of three modes: simulation, arcade and high-speed turbo arcade. Simulation mode makes a gallant attempt to mimic every aspect of a car's handling - except where that conflicts with old-fashioned fun. For example, you can slam your car into hairpin corners at high speeds without scratching its paintwork - a strangely exhilirating experience.
There are three main game modes. Quick Race tests you against up to six computer-controlled drivers, but Redline's emphasis on playability is most evident in the Time Trial mode, which is ludicrously addictive because your times are registered automatically online as you complete a lap. Your performance is measured against every other Redline player who has ever completed the course. The current record holder's name and time is always visible.
Multiplayer mode is equally well thought out, even if its navigation is clunky. Races can accommodate up to five other players with little lag - although performance depends on the host Mac's connection. Another nice touch is the ability to goad other players with prepared taunts released with a single keystroke.
The graphics lack polish but impressive thought has gone into the gaming experience. You can race in a variety of light and weather conditions: day or night, rain or snow. Race in the rain and your headlights are reflected on the wet track's surface - a nice detail.
There are plenty of twists to keep you coming back. Although there are a dozen different car types, only the Mini is available to you to begin with. Other cars can only be unlocked by successfully negotiating infuriatingly tough timed skill challenges, from basic slaloms to more convoluted cornering routines.
Also, when you press a designated key a small car radio icon appears and the currently selected iTunes track plays. You can fast-forward or rewind songs, with the name of the current track briefly appearing whenever it changes.
Although it supports analogue game controllers, Redline is perfectly playable with a keyboard and performs respectably on a sub-1GHz G4.
Although Redline's only cutting-edge feature is its playability, at half the price of similar games it's still a winner.
Author: Tom Gorham
Redline