• Publisher: Acclaim
  • Release Date: Sep 30, 2002
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 31 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 31
  3. Negative: 0 out of 31
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  1. Entertainment Weekly
    100
    There's no story line, but Burnout 2 is one of those games that's actually better for the lack of it. [28 July 2003, p.82]
  2. The most pulsating, nut-chafing, wind-in-the-hair experiences that can be prised from a game console. [GamesMaster]
  3. This is one of the fastest, most intense racing games we’ve played on any system and makes rival games look absolutely sedate by comparison.
  4. 93
    If "Gran Turismo 3" is Dom Perignon, Burnout 2 is Jack Daniels. While Dom may be a great guy, personally I'd rather hang out with Jack.
  5. A really, really solid, gorgeous, blisteringly fast racing game that just wants you to have fun.
  6. No matter how you choose to play Burnout 2 – Championship, Chase, or Crash -- the ultra-responsive gameplay will shine through as the pinnacle of arcade-racing perfection.
  7. The improved Burnout system really adds some much needed depth to the gameplay, whilst those graphics are going to astound you.
  8. A sequel so polished and far-improved over the year-old Burnout that the former looks like a PSOne engine compared to the latter. The music is crap though.
  9. Destruction can be a beautiful thing; Burnout 2 does life endangering with more verve, elan and panache than you'll find anywhere else right now.
  10. Like the visuals, the sounds rock the house. Besides the incredibly great soundtrack, the sound effects are some of the best around.
  11. PSM Magazine
    90
    You won't find a faster racer on PS2, and the control is simply some of the best we've ever encountered. [Dec 2002, p.43]
  12. 90
    Blazing graphics and excellent controls, as well as a variety of play modes for a repeatedly enjoyable experience.
  13. 90
    An excellent sequel in every way. It's better looking, longer, faster, deeper, and it's got little flourishes and extra modes of play that truly impress.
  14. This game has the best crashes ever done in anything, and I think that even includes movies.
  15. A much-improved version over its predecessor.
  16. One of my favorite features is the tutorial called "Offensive Driving 101" where you are taken through a list of all of the best techniques for getting ahead. (Where else can you drive like a maniac in a Student Driver car?)
  17. With slick graphics, fantastic crashes, and strong replayability, Burnout 2 is more then worth a look and strong consideration for 2002’s "Sleeper" of the Year.
  18. If you don’t like Burnout 2 there is seriously something wrong with you.
  19. It's still longer than the first game, and is better and more exciting than most of the other racers out there.
  20. Fast, furious, not to mention loads of fun.
  21. If the game had more depth or difficulty it would perhaps be the top arcade racer on the PS2--instead it's just a very good, though not great, game.
  22. The inclusion of the well-done championship and multiplayer modes make it a must-own for fans of arcade racing.
  23. I can't remember the last time I had this much fun with a racing game. [Dec 2002, p.202]
  24. netjak
    81
    It is fairly shallow as a racing game.
  25. GMR Magazine
    80
    An aggressive driving simulator that defies the rules of physics. Includes a dedicated crash mode for aspiring demolition-derby stars. [Feb 2003, p.92]
  26. If you like idea of racing but don't want to make the commitment to something like GT3, B2 will satiate your need for speed.
  27. Play Magazine
    80
    The amount of depth, given the unlockable nature of the cars and missions, make this as meaty as it is intense. [Nov 2002, p.92]
  28. Game Informer
    80
    Overall the game seems more complete than the first. [Nov 2002, p.124]
  29. Weekly Famitsu
    75
    8 / 7 / 8 / 7 - 30 silver [Vol 799; 9 Apr 2004]
  30. Quick fun whenever you want it, regardless of skill or time investment.

Awards & Rankings

18
20
#20 Most Discussed PS2 Game of 2002
User Score
8.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 71 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 53 out of 71
  2. Negative: 4 out of 71
  1. Oct 16, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click full review link to view. One of the best arcade racers known to man, this game will always hold a special place in my heart. The racing is fun and keeps it's pace, the graphics are less on the realistic side and almost feel cartoony, and with a newly developed crash mode, this game is practically what kicked off the entire Burnout trilogy. When you begin your career you are required to complete a list of driving "tests" that act as a tutorial for the game. It doesn't take long to complete, and afterwards, you'll need to compete in various championships. There are certain face-off events that, if won, unlocks a new car. These face off events are unlocked by completing certain specifications in the championships. Crash mode events aren't as crucial to complete as they are in Burnout 3. They aren't tied to the main career in any way, though if one completes all of them, they will earn a special vehicle. This is to be understood, as this was crash modes early days. Boost works in a similar way as it did in Burnout 1. You are required to fill the boost meter up to full if you want to use it, by doing stunts such as near misses, jumps, or drifting. You can also achieve chained burnouts by completing these stunts whilst using the boost. Overall, I highly recommend this game. It's definitely one for the arcade racing enthusiast. Full Review »
  2. Feb 25, 2019
    10
    Jesus, what a fun driving game, the controls were delicious, in my 0pinion it is a MUST PLAY for ps2
  3. KyleK.
    Nov 15, 2003
    10
    One of the best racing games i've played yet. Great graphics, great cars, could have been more. Also one excellent feature in the game One of the best racing games i've played yet. Great graphics, great cars, could have been more. Also one excellent feature in the game is crashing. WICKED Full Review »