If you have played the impressive Model 3 arcade original, then you basically know what to expect from the Dreamcast conversion. The framerate stuttering as found in the Japanese version has been smoothed out a bit, and the environments may be missing a few polygons here and there, but graphically the port is well done. Thanks to PowerVR graphics processor, the Dreamcast version actually features some better effects than the original, such as enhanced lighting and reflections. Overall, Sega Rally 2 has a very realistic look to it, with plenty of detailed earthy toned textures as well as great lighting and shading.

Graphics, however, are not Sega Rally 2's real strong point. The spot on control, and high level of challenge are the primary attractions for arcade style racing game fans. Beyond the typical Arcade Mode, and Practice Modes, Sega Rally 2 features an extremely engrossing 10 Year Mode. The 10 Year Mode takes you through a career of racing, with four courses per year, for a total of 40 races. Each race takes place on a different course or course layout of increasing difficulty, in different conditions during various times of the day. In order to move from year to year and earn new cars you must finish each year in 1st place, which is not an especially easy task. After learning the course layout for the courses in your respective year, it is imperative that you tweak your car setup (Gran Turismo style) in order to shave as many tenths of a second off your time as possible. The vehicle tweaking in Sega Rally 2, is nowhere near as extensive as Gran Turismo's however. Which in an arcade style racer, works very well. Even though there are other vehicles on the track, as with all Rally style games, your real enemy is time.

As mentioned earlier, it is not an easy task to finish first. Gamers who are not looking for an absorbing/challenging racing experience, need not apply. Some reviewers find this to be a bad thing, surprisingly. Sega Rally 2 requires plenty of practice and driving time in order to get really good at the game, almost like real racing!

I am a fan of fruity soundtracks, and absolutely loved Sonic R's. The music in Sega Rally 2, while nowhere near as wacky as that, still reminds me of the Sonic R music at times. Needless to say, I enjoyed the wide variety of music styles (jazzy, rock, vocal, j-pop).

As far as differences from the arcade version is concerned, the US Sega Rally 2 has a few. Besides the framerate issue, there are 2 really cool new cars to unlock, as well as added Jump Pack rumble support. Everything else, from what I remember, is the same.