Sega Rally Championship: Twin Deluxe

Game Details:

In the history of racing games, this title was the first to successfully represent the impact of different road surfaces on vehicle handling. The Twin DX deluxe version provided players with an immersive driving experience, featuring a massive cockpit-style cabinet, a high-precision force feedback steering wheel, and a realistic gear shifter. The game includes three primary track environments: Jungle, Desert, and Mountain, with each terrain offering completely different friction and grip levels. Players must not only finish the race within the time limit but also compete against formidable AI opponents. Its unique co-driver voice system and smooth drifting feel have made this game a treasured classic among countless hardcore players, even more than two decades later.

Game Guide:

First, you must understand the changes in road surface grip. On asphalt, the car is very stable, but upon entering gravel or grass sections, the rear end will become very lively. At this point, you shouldn't slam on the brakes, as it will cause the car to lose control and spin out. The correct technique is to ease off the throttle slightly before a turn, using weight transfer to guide the car's front end into the corner.

Drifting is the core mechanic of this game. Since rally racing frequently involves hairpin turns, mastering the 'powerslide' is crucial. When approaching a sharp corner, quickly downshift and turn the wheel hard. As you feel the rear start to swing out, immediately counter-steer and apply moderate throttle. This will allow the car to slide sideways through the corner in a graceful arc.

Your co-driver's calls are your best assistant. The game provides voice prompts for the direction and severity of upcoming turns, such as 'Left 3' or 'Hairpin.' Upon hearing a call, players should plan their gear selection in advance. On straightaways, try to stay in the highest gear for maximum speed. However, once you enter a series of complex corners, staying in third or fourth gear will provide better acceleration response.

For the time trial mode, the most crucial thing is to minimize collisions. Every impact with a guardrail will cause a sharp decrease in speed and a loss of valuable bonus time. For beginners, 'slow in, fast out' is the golden rule. It's better to brake a little early before a corner to ensure you can exit it at full throttle. Finally, unlocking the hidden track usually requires the player to finish first in the championship mode, which demands a thorough knowledge of every detail of the road surfaces.