Amazing graphics, perfect controls and loads of vehicles is this the best racer on the iPad?

Real Racing HD for iPad : Real Racing has been the definitive racer for the iPhone since the game’s release in June 2009. Its first-person perspective is unmatched, the graphics sublime and the Al aggressive. So, when an iPad version was an?nounced in time for the device’s release, we couldn’t have been more excited -the best racing game on a multitouch device was finally going HD.

We can’t help but be a little disappointed though. There are no new tracks or vehicles, the cars still don’t have transparent windows, and there is still only three gaming modes available. Don’t let that put you off though, this is still a classic that feels perfectly at home on the iPad, and these small complaints merely express a sense that so much more could have been done.

The graphics have been tweaked with higher-resolution textures, improved reflections and more. You really do feel like you’re racing a real vehicle, and with the larger 9.7-inch display the experience is even more absorbing. The controls feel more natural on the iPad ­it’s like holding a real steering wheel — and the career mode is still addictive and thorough, You’ll find 12 multi-course cups to race through, each with a variation of vehicles to race and buy. The game begins with ‘hatch’ cars, but soon introduces ‘muscle’ vehicles and ‘exotic’ racers. Basically, they get faster and beefier-looking through­out the game. Towards the end of the career mode you’ll be cling­ing to the iPad as the tracks whiz by at breakneck speed. The two other game modes,TimeTrial and Quick Play, are exactly as you’d expect and a great way to quickly jump into the game

There is one important new feature in this iPad version — the abil­ity to re-skin any vehicle using images from your photo album. This isn’t as easy as tapping on an image and watching the app do the job, as you’ll need to export a built-in skin, edit it in your favourite paint program, and then import the edited skin back into the game. You’ll also find a selection of new and user-made skins at the Firem­int website, accessible through the game’s menu.

Rating 5 Star