To have any success inF-Zero, great reflexes and a memory for track detail are absolute musts. While the controls are responsive, in general the frictionless racing means that almost all cars have a suitably loose feel to them, and require skilled pilots to handle corners. Be warned that gamers with adult-size thumbs may be in for a very painful experience due to the constant mashing of the GBA's shoulder buttons. When you get bored of racing the computer, you can take on up to four opponents via the link cable--and unlike multiplayer Game Boy games, only one cartridge is needed.

WhileF-Zero features many tracks and skill levels, beyond the simplistic (yet challenging) racing, there isn't much depth. Fortunately, the silky smooth animation and detailed graphics should keep fans of speedy arcade racers taxing their thumbs long after they've brought home the checkered flag.--Mark Brooks

Pros:

• Ridiculously fast-paced arcade racing done right
• Many tracks and hovercraft to choose from as you gain skill
• Graphics give a good hint of the GBA's pixel-pushing power
• Four-player racing is a blast

• Extremely painful to the thumbs of adult-size hands
• Lack of depth may be a turnoff once novelty of speed wears off