It's been a long time coming but iPhone gamers at last having a driving sim worthy of being mentioned in the same breath as the great console racers such as Gran Turismo and Need for Speed.
Firemint Real Racing GTI is a Volkswagen-sponsored racing game which makes wonderful use of the iPhone's hardware to deliver a high-octane, realistic driving experience. The control system is probably the most refined, yet simple you'll find anywhere on the iPhone platform. You control the vehicles simply by titling the device left and right to steer, and tapping the screen to brake. You don't need to worry about gears or acceleration because this is all done automatically. You can even turn on braking assistance so the game does that for you too!
That's not to say Real Racing GTI is easy though, and you'll need all the help you can get because the action is so fast you don't have time to think. All of your concentration must go into hitting the corners at the right angle and steering through the bends with precision at high speed.
The 3D graphics in Firemint Real Racing GTI are astonishing, and wouldn't look out of place on a PS2 or XBox. The impression of speed you get is very realistic, as are the roaring engine sound effects.
Strictly speaking, this free version of Firemint Real Racing GTI is more of a demo than a full game, although there's plenty to keep you occupied. The game includes a challenging Career mode featuring three tracks, Quick Race mode, and Time Trial. Real Racing GTI also boasts excellent multiplayer capabilities, facilitating races between up to six people over WiFi.
On the downside, the choice of cars is limited only to Volkswagen GTIs and you'll have to put up with all the promotional guff that goes with a sponsored title such as this one.
We can forgive this though given that Firemint Real Racing GTI offers undoubtedly the best iPhone driving experience to date.
