Let's play: Duccati World

You could end up with a bargain or a boneshaker

By David Gibbon

There's nothing quite like donning your leathers, getting on the back of a super, all-powerful motorbike and taking off like a bat out of hell.

That feeling you get when the wind lashes you while racing at breakneck speeds makes you feel on top of the world, if a little scared!

If you'd like to experience motorcycle racing without the fear, Acclaim have released Duccati World for PC, Dreamcast and PlayStation.

Those who have played games like Road Rash and Superbike will know what to expect.

  Ducatti World

Format: PC CD-ROM

Price: £29.99

Publisher: Acclaim Genre

Also available; Playstation, Dreamcast

The playability this game offers is excellent and is as comprehensive as Gran Turismo when it comes to features .

Like GT, Ducatti World offers a full career mode. Here, you have to win four licences, each one containing five tests - from acceleration skills to racing.

Even a real novice can develop the skills needed to become a more than competent rider.

Once in the main game, you are given £10,000 to kick-start your career. Out of this you need to buy a set of wheels - which could turn out to be a real bargain....or a real boneshaker!

In some races you'll win money and in others you can take a competitor's bike as your prize.

Realistic handling

As your cash builds up, you can upgrade your bike by changing the engine, exhaust system, brakes, tyres, wheels, clutch - or even the bike itself.

And with 45 different models dating back to the 50s available, the only thing affecting your decision is the amount you can spend.

As well as an exhaustive list of options and features, Ducatti World really excels in its playability.

Ducatti World has realistic effects

Each bike has separate brakes for front and back - a first in itself for a video game - progressive acceleration and incredibly realistic handling.

When you turn into a corner, the feeling of realism is superb. If you don't brake correctly, you will end up in a ditch.

But the initial training this game offers will soon teach you how to do this like a pro.

It also features a great two-player, split-screen mode but falters in the graphics department.

The menu screens are boring and the 3D visuals are most certainly not state-of-the-art.

Although Ducatti World does not quite meet the standards set by GT on PlayStation, it's easily the best motorcycle game for years.

  Gibbon's verdict

Graphics 78%

Playability 92%

Sound 76%

Realism 95%

Overall 87%