[This review was originally written on 24 February, 2006.]

I bought a game in the Wipeout series for the PSX years ago. Its sense of speed was great, but it was too difficult for me (casual gamer) and I couldn't really get into it. Based on the reviews I read of this version, and since it was a gift and I had nothing much to lose, I thought I'd give it a shot.

This game is to the PSP what a flashy DVD is to a home theatre: if you want to show off the hardware, the brilliant graphics and soundtrack, this is the game to get. Besides that, it's a blast to play. They've managed to capture and convey a sense of blistering speed phenomenally. Aesthetically, it's a joy. The menus are slick and the in-game visuals are gorgeous.

So, is it perfect? Not quite. A wee note to casual gamers: While the game is easy to pick up and start playing, it's difficult to master. The challenge is a welcome one, but can get frustrating because the difference in difficulty between the first set of courses and the second is so great.

I know that only so much licensed music can be stuffed onto the little UMD, but still, the soundtrack (is brilliant but) gets kind of repetitive. Variety in courses is lacking a little as well. It's a bit of a disappointment when one learns that in order to progress, one must be victorious at a higher level in races that one has already won. Meh. Unlockable goodies are rather anticlimactic. *Possible spoiler, depending on how much of a stickler you are about such things.* One gets nothing for a bronze or silver medal (except unlocking the next course/track to be raced) and, upon winning the gold, one unlocks… oh my goodness, artwork in the gallery, be still my heart! Double meh.

In spite of the few shortcomings and nitpicks, wipEout purE is a worthwhile investment if you own a PSP and like racing games. I haven't spoken about the online racing aspect of the game because I've not tried it. No doubt that greatly increases its replay value.

Finally, (free) downloadable extras from the developer add immense value to this purchase. The content can expire at any time, so be sure to grab it while you can. :)

The game is pretty cool. It's fun to play if you like racing games. Got a real good deal on it.

I have CRISIS CORE, CHAINS OF OLYMPUS, FORCE UNLEASHED, and now WIPEOUT PURE.

I really didn't think much why I wanted a PSP over the Nintendo DS. After getting WIPEOUT PURE, my reason for owning the PSP is justified.

If you like racing with a kick and more than just average racing WIPEOUT PURE is your answer. And do not forget the awesome soundtrack. The music by itself keeps me playing it.

Even after playing CHAINS OF OLYMPUS, it still amazes me that WIPEOUT PURE is this good.

This game is no fun because of everything in it!The races are boring, the music is weird, and you do the same thing in every race...No creativity in it. I recommend you get a different racing game like Need for Speed(any of them are good) or Burnout(any of them also). Those are some excellent racing games. ;)

I've played a couple of the previous versions of WipeOut and have always been impressed by this series, but the latest version for PSP is exceptional!

The handling of the car is terrific; you can use the D-pad or analog stick for subtle taps, and the shoulder triggers work airbrakes for harder, tighter steering.

The graphics look beautiful, almost jewel-like, and the selection of music works well with this face-paced game.

You know a racing game is great when you find yourself leaning your body left and right as you swoop through the curves.

The only caveat I've found is that apparently there are online downloads (extra courses, cars, etc.) available at the developer's web-site, but when I try on numerous occasions to download it times out. I suspect it's because the downloads are only available to certain countries, and my country is not one.

All in all, I rate WipeOut Pure a 9.5 out of 10. Fantastic!

This game is great. Awesome graphics, sound, gameplay, and controls. Great options for customizing your race profile and keeping track of all your times on different tracks. Perfect for a handheld like the PSP.

If your a Wipeout fan then this is a must buy.