"TWISTED METAL: HEAD-ON, EXTRA TWISTED EDITION," for the PlayStation 2, Sony Computer Entertainment, rated T for Teen, reviewer's rating: 7.5 (out of 10)

Let's just say do NOT apply this "Head-On" directly to your forehead. The classic title, which turned video racing on its head, is back for a second run. The "Twisted Metal" series proved that sometimes plot can be overrated. Sometimes a blast-'em free-for-all can simply be fun.

This disk contains two versions: "Head-On" and four never-before-played levels from "Twisted Metal: Black."

The game is pretty simple but addictive to play. Players choose one of several vehicles, each with their own abilities. After that, let the races and carnage begin. Driving around the various creative courses, players pick up special weapons, such as missiles, bombs and the like. Your goal: stay alive and make sure other drivers don't.

Graphics: The one downside to this edition is that its graphics really haven't endured very well. Even for a PlayStation 2 game, its graphics are pretty crude. Still, the game has a decent look to it, and there's something satisfying about the level in which you tear up downtown Paris or romp through the Parthenon.

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Audio: Music is heavy-metal inspired and pretty generic. Most of the game's other sounds consist of revving engines and multiple explosions.

Parent's take: While a racing game filled with bombs and guns may sound pretty disturbing, the game lacks any really graphic violence. Unlike other games where street violence is glorified, the levels in this game are clearly fantasy-based.

Final take: Fans of the "Twisted Metal" series will find this version a nice blast from the past. If anything, it's a great game for a price much lower than most new video game titles out there.


E-mail: gfattah@desnews.com

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