Cars 2: The Video Game

$50, PlayStation 3, Wii, Xbox 360, Nintendo DS, Windows, Mac

Teaches: racing, logic, timing

CTR Rating: 92.5%

CTR Review

Unlike the earlier Cars-related video games, this one is (gasp) a solid multi-player racing game, with split-screen action for up to four players. Besides the engaging racing format, you also get the personalities of over 20 cars from the Cars 2 movie. Note that this is a "traditional" racing game, using "traditional" game controls (meaning there will be no Kinect or Sony Move versions). The Sony PS3 edition will have a 3D option, providing you have a 3D TV. As you race, you use seven types of weapons (Disney calls them "gadgets") to slow down competitors cars. These include oil slicks, missiles leech mines and satellite beam.As in any good Cart racing game, the tracks have shortcuts, and it is possible to plan a series of races, say, for an afternoon of racing fun with a friend. The game mixes the racing with a story theme. Once you complete all six levels, you become a master spy. We liked the controls -- you can drive backwards, or flick the analog stick to hop down the track, if you like. The more you race, the more points you can earn, to unlock tracks, cars and skins. The game will be in stores when the movie is released (June 21, 2011). Made by Avalanche for Disney (Avalanche also made Toy Story 3). Prices are $50 for the Wii, PS3 and Xbox 360 versions, and $30 for the PC/Mac and DS versions. Note the DS version is rated E.