The reason for that is actually quite simple. Not only is the gameplay still as flashing, quick, violent and fun, but you now get so much extra content that you'll be busy for weeks. Add to that the addictive effect of achievements and the online possibilities and we don't need to say more. You get 75 vehicles that need to get unlocked but also all the free content Critorion has made for the gmae over the last months.

Amongst other things this means the possibility to have fun with (a small number of) bikes, the addition of a day and night cycle and a ton new onlines modes that are really fun to check out with your friends. There's for instance the "Marked Man" where one needs to get taken down by the rest, but also Stunt Run and Road Rage. Also there are literally hundreds of Challenges to finish in the online world (and I can't emphasize enough how well that world is put together). That way you always know what to do, next to of course just making chaotic mayhem without reason. The challenges vary from doing special jumps with someone else, reaching a certain place, or combinations of challenges where you first need to drift to then race somewhere or do a stunt.

You'll never get bored in Paradise City! By the way: the title song is still the most genious soundtrack ever for a menu, but that on the side.

Did I say how good the online multiplayer is? After one loading time the entire world is open and ready, and you and your friends can join or log out again. "The more the better" is the key and that also gets reflected in the possibilities. Not only is there an almost infinite list of challenges but with a few pushes on the buttons of your controller you easily create point-to-point races or start a certain Event. On top of that you can also compete in Time Trials or put down the best performance of the session on a piece of road, stunt or whatever. Or you go looking for one of the 400 fences to crash through or 50 superjumps that are spread all over, not to talk about the 120 advertising billboards.

Those that can't go online can still have fun in singleplayer or enjoy the party pack that can also be bought seperately or and downloaded. There you can take turns with up to 8 players to finish one of the mini-games. These are divided in three categories: skill, speed and stunts, and each of the assignments can quickly be finished and is both fun to watch as well as play yourself. For those that want some variation from the Wii when some friends are around this is it. Of course you need to be capable to do a little more than just shake your hand.

Auditively (start to roar) and graphically this is still a pearl. It of course looks as arcade as it plays but all that shiny, beautifully detailed and sharp textures included metal isn't only fun to see but also spectacular to crash with against pole, wall or other object. The slo-mos are still a pleasure for the eye and more than once you'll have a fat grin on your face when you take revenge on one of your Xbox Live friends. Also the signposting has been improved quite a bit and the way events are announced is as great as the interface. Only at the beginning you'll encounter some problems to easily find your way but that's part of the charm of the game and being able to explore such a large area.