With new online modes, capable and fun split-screen, and one truly great fictional racetrack (Rusty Ravine), it’s only really let down by its slight low-budget feel and sense of déjà vu. But being enjoyable to play is surely the whole point of a videogame, and this is very enjoyable indeed. [Issue#187, p.81]

It’s certainly not for everybody, but those who are keen on driving four-wheeled monstrosities in open environments and flinging them around stadiums will be in their element with Monster Jam Steel Titans 2. It doesn’t really excel in any area, but it is one of the best attempts at bringing the joy of driving monster trucks to the video game world regardless. A nice variety of events and activities are on offer, and it boasts what is perhaps the largest number of Monster Jam vehicles to get behind the wheel of yet. It’s by no means essential, but if you’re after a racing game that’s a little bit different, you can do a lot worse.

Monster Jam: Steel Titans 2 is at its best when it embraces the arcadeyness, depth, and lightheartedness that define its most exciting moments, though it sometimes punishes the very ambition behind those aspects.

It’s a decent effort, one that monster truck fans alone will get the best out of. But if you’re a gamer looking for a top-rated car and racing experience, there’s better out there.

Monster Jam Steel Titans 2 does provide a decent adventure but it's let down by a real lack of new events. The career mode is very quick-fire but it does highlight how little has changed since the first game. The handling feels sound and refined but I couldn't get to grips with the great outdoors and I found the AI to be hit and miss. The trucks are well presented and the arenas feel varied but, those wanting something new, might feel underwhelmed.

Monster Jam Steel Titans 2 is fun, at least for a couple of hours. After that, you will not be inclined to run the game again, because you will already have figured out everything it has to offer. It feels like even the developers designed the game as a temporary distraction, aware that the magic quickly fades out. It is only a small improvement compared to the first Monster Jam Steel Titans and even with a more modest price tag and online multiplayer, it is hard to recommend for someone. Monster Jam Steel Titans 2 is way too arcade for the fans of the sport and offers very little to anyone else.

Rainbow Studios has been responsible for some top-notch, mudslinging racers over the years, but Monster Jam Steel Titans 2 isn’t one of them. The racing is serviceable enough and the themed worlds are a cute idea, but its bland and poorly presented, chore-like approach to its career content turns one of the most grin-inducing spectacles in motorsport into a remarkably dull experience.