G1 Jockey 4 PS2

What with the Grand National coming up, there really couldn't be a better time of year than March to release a horse racing game. If you are a fan of the gee-gees, then G1 Jockey 4 is most definitely for you. The long-running horse racing series returns to the PS2 with a few new tricks up its sleeve. Perhaps the most notable new addition to the game is the revolutionary new 'rein simulator' controller add-on. This bizarre-looking-but-really-very clever-add-on clips neatly over both analog sticks on the PS2 controller, and enables you to co-ordinate your analog stick movements much more precisely to gain an even greater level of control over your horse. Holding the reins in one hand while using the whip with the other, pace yourself for a last burst of power in final stretch, or use both hands to make small adjustments to your course. It takes a little bit of getting used to, but once mastered, it's superb fun indeed. The game is not just about the racing, though. You nurture your very own thoroughbreds, attempting to breed a whole stable of potential champions, riding your way to the very top over an entire career as a champion jockey. You start off as a rookie, with the ultimate aim of becoming a horse-racing legend. G1 Jockey 4 also introduces a new ranking system and abilities, plus massively improved environments and animation. With the new ranking system, you can see how you rank with horse trainers and fans. By winning races, you increase both your skill and your reputation in the racing world, which leads onto bigger opportunities and better, faster horses. The tutorial mode soon has you enjoying all the fun of the races. You soon learn that finding the right balance is the key - not to flog your horse at too high a pace, or equally, not to hold back too much.