On the PS2, Smugglers Run and its sequel Hostile Territory were well-recieved by both the press and punters and Gamecubes first installment of the series is set to carry on the trend. In the game you play a smuggler doing business on some of the most hostile places in the world. You take part in classic off-road driving in 5 HUGE terrains, spread over an impressive 30 different missions. But it's not going to be easy, both smuggling rivals and the local authorities want will stop at just about nothing do stop you.

You will have 8 different vehicles at your disposal, each with very different physics and handling attributes. The physics of the game are one of its strong points, flying along the complex and contrasting terrains just feels right.

ANother strong point is the graphics, which are built on an updated engine especially for Gamecube. The environments go as far as the eye can see, with no fogging or slowdown. They are filled with impressive vegetation, the trees and bushes are beautifully recreated.

"With Warzones, the game has been radically enhanced and developed for the Nintendo GameCube audience by adding a vast array of new features, including never-before-seen environments, countermeasures and missions," says Dan Houser, Creative Director of Rockstar Games. "Add the fierce competition of four-player split screen and a pulsating soundtrack, you have an amazing, white-knuckle driving game."

By taking the PS2 sequel and adding more of everything, improving the visuals and throwing in a 4-player mode for good measure Angel Studios and publisher Rockstar are certainly on to a winner here. It has immense pick-up-and-play value while is challenging enough to keep you there.

Expect a July release in the States, so probably an Autumn release here. Keep your eye on this little gem. Click on the source for the first screens.

Source: IGNCube