Initial Research
Peruse the driver, car and track information sections to determine the who, what and where of the race. Take a peek at the major iron available; you can choose from Ford, Hondas, Peugeots, just to name a few. As your racing prowess improves, more car selections are unlocked for your use. Also take extra time to look over the racing venues. These track layouts are awesome! The detail is precise and the racing experience is intense. The realistic background scenery puts you in the thick of some of the most beautiful European countryscapes; don’t spin–out while gawking out the window!

After checking out the competition, it is time to select your race car. Try them all. Some players tend to stick to one make and model; usually it is the one that fits their "comfort quotient." Others race them all, gaining experience with the different performance and handling capabilities.

In the early stages of playing the game, try to race on as many different tracks as is comfortable. Eventually you will get to know the strengths and weaknesses of each track; such as the dangerous curves and fast–paced straight–aways.

Bring up the Start menu to select what type of race you want to run. Opt for the test track for practice runs, or select from the time trial, single race or championship race, just to name a few. The option to race on the network is also selected from this menu. In the championship race, choose from one of two races: the sprint or feature race. The feature race includes a compulsory pit stop. This is so cool! As you drive your car into the pit lane, your pit crew (the computer) springs into action changing your tires and attending to any damage to the car. Unfortunately, damage repairs cost dearly in lap times, so try your best to stay out of harm’s way!

Race Preparation
Every professional driver knows that you have to "dial–in" your car for each track. Try to run on every track, noting how subtle changes in the suspension and gear ratios affect your performance and lap times. Change your tires, brake bias or gear ratios as needed. Visit this setup screen often to tweak your suspension, as this makes a huge difference in handling, a hallmark of touring racecars.

Attention to the details of the game and the type of game controller makes all the difference in your precise control of the race vehicle. The typical joystick is not adequate for this game. The best controller is a steering wheel controller. Using the steering wheel affords you the luxury of controlling your car with a much smoother touch. This gives you better response times when in tight corners, or during power passes.

This racing sim requires you to head to the practice tracks as often as possible. The precise handling of the vehicles exacts a toll on anyone that cannot focus or concentrate on the task at hand. Soon you will be spinning out of control, due to slight over–steering or under–steering. Solid racing concentration, however, rewards the driver with the same exhilaration as if you were really behind the wheel! Remember, you will be racing against some of the best drivers in British Touring Car Championships, so your job is cut out for you.

There are three levels of play, Novice, Standard and Expert. Begin with the Novice level, and move up as you gain experience and confidence.

Just as in the real races, you must qualify to get a position in the race. This is a race against the clock, so if you raced using the time trial race type, then you are primed and ready to go! The faster your time, the higher your position in the grid. There are 16 positions, enabling you to move up quickly.

Conclusion
This racing sim keeps your adrenaline pumping, even weeks after your initial race experience! A must–have for the sports car racing fanatic.

System requirements (minimum)
Windows 95 or 98, Intel Pentium 200Mhz CPU, 32MB RAM, 55 MB Hard Disk Space, DirectX 6.0 supported 3D Graphics Card (PCI/AGP) with 4MB RAM (This must have one of the Supported 3D Chipsets on board), 4X Speed CDROM Drive, DirectX 6.0 supported Sound Card

System requirements (recommended)
Windows 95 or 98, Intel Pentium II 266Mhz CPU, 32Mb RAM, 55 MB Hard Disk Space, DirectX 6.0 supported 3D Graphics Card (PCI/AGP) with 8MB RAM (This must have one of the Supported 3D Chipsets on board), 8X Speed CDROM Drive, DirectX 6.0 supported Sound Card

Overall Rating: A

Websites: http://www.codemasters.com, http://www.toca2.com