With the Dreamcast release less than two months away, the software is starting to come in thick and fast. Everyone seems to want a piece of the action, especially when PC games are relatively simple (and inexpensive) to port. But can the Dreamcast versions actually be any better?
Andy Ashwin

What are you on about? There's never been a PC game called Speed Devils!
That's right - the PC version was called Speed Busters and we liked it a lot (check out the review on the website). It was all about high-speed racing in souped-up cars in some rather remarkable environments. Graphically sublime it was, too.

So what's changed in the DC version, apart from the name?
Everything has been tweaked to cater for a more 'arcade' oriented audience. There's a new gambling dimension, giving you a new way to progress through the game. Before a race, you'll be challenged by a computer character (either a rival racer or a bet-taker), so you need to be pretty confident of your driving ability. Each of the computer drivers has their own specific AI, as well as a distinct strategy to win the race.

Hmm... so not much has changed then.
Well, there are a few other minor differences - the arcade feel is achieved by easier track design, as well as cars that are easier to drive.

Is that because console owners are crap at games?
Of course not! What about V-Rally? Or Gran Turismo? They weren't easy to pick up by anyone's standards. Where were we going with this?

You were trying to explain the differences in the Dreamcast version.
Thanks. The other main difference is that Speed Devils will make use of the Dreamcast's VMS - you know, that little Game Boy thing that plugs into the controller? This will allow you to take a car around to a friend's house and challenge him to a race, or even flog off a beaten-up old jalopy. Another big difference involves some of the hazards that you'll encounter during a race, be it the UFOs in Arizona or the awe-inspiring twister in Louisiana. Some of these spot effects are a real testament to the power of the Dreamcast.