Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli (Wii, 2008)

I saw an ad for this game in Car and Driver and, being the Ferrari nut I am, HAD to get it. First of all Wii is not known for awesome graphics. The graphics in this game aren't bad but they won't be the same as the PS3 or XBox version so bear this in mind. You can find demo videos of this game online.
Because you're using a Wii controller (get at least a basic steering wheel!) the car responds to ANY motion of the steering wheel and, IMHO is accurate enough...especially at 100+ mph. It takes a little getting used to but once you get the hang of it you'll have a blast. Logitech makes a more stationary steering wheel but it's around $90...much more than what I paid for the game. Call me cheap but unless I was a real racing nut I couldn't see paying that much. Maybe Santa will surprise me!
The sound is pretty cool especially when hooked up to a surround sound system. I don't know if it's actually in 5.1 but it sounds great. You'll hear not only the engine noise but the transmission whine, tire squeal, and crowd noise (I wouldn't imagine one could actually hear the crowd while going balls-out in a Ferrari at racing speeds but it's a nice thought).
I'm not a racing fan...yet...but this game might change my mind. It's realistic to the point where I can better relate to the delicate balance between man, machine and Mother Nature...yeah, there's racing in the rain too...just to keep you humble.
This game, to me, is about serious racing. No more no less. My 5 and 7 year olds don't really enjoy it much. I get very serious when I play it because when you're racing in "Challenge" mode, you qualify on a track and then race 2 races of at least 3 laps each before you move on the the next track. If you screw up you lose point standings in the whole series. I feel like I'm getting a paycheck or something!! LOL
You start out racing a Ferrari 430 Challenge, which is quite cool, and as you progress you earn "credits" to buy other Ferrari models as they are unlocked. I was a bit saddened by how poorly some of these models perform but I think it just speaks volumes of how great the 430 really is.
I don't know how this game will compare to other racing games but if you're a Ferrari nut, especially one who may never get to actually race one, this game should put a smile on your face...AFTER the race that is ;-) Grrr, I'm smiling on the INSIDE!!
Can you tell I love this game?? LOL