This 25-year-old rally game still stands up today
Codemasters' Colin McRae Rally 2.0, released 25 years ago, remains one of the finest rally games ever made. Two years after introducing the world to a laconic Scotsman and his blue Subaru Impreza, Codemasters launched this sequel to 1998’s original Colin McRae Rally.
Enhanced Realism and Features
The game doubled down on realism by offering:
- Eight rally environments
- Sixteen distinct rally cars, including the Ford Escort Mk I on the PC version
- A weighty handling model influenced directly by feedback from Colin McRae
Recognizing the increased difficulty, Codemasters introduced an Arcade mode, which featured closed-circuit racing against up to five AI opponents and more forgiving controls.
Licensing and Content Limitations
Although Colin McRae Rally 2.0 lacked a full World Rally Championship license—which Sony acquired for the 2001 game titled World Rally Championship—it included only two real-life drivers: Colin McRae himself and Kenneth Eriksson, McRae’s former Subaru teammate.
Lasting Impact and Legacy
The game is widely regarded as a landmark in rally gaming, pushing the PlayStation's hardware limits and markedly improving its predecessor’s gameplay. By refining its diverse surfaces, stages, and car selections, Colin McRae Rally 2.0 helped establish Codemasters as a leader in racing game development.
"2.0 is widely seen as one of the best rally games ever created, pushing the hardware limits of the PlayStation while improving upon its predecessor’s gameplay in almost every area."
Author’s summary: Nearly a quarter-century on, Colin McRae Rally 2.0 remains a benchmark in realistic rally simulations, celebrated for its gameplay depth and enduring influence.