If I stretch the scope of this thread a bit, forgive me... but I thought I'd put my 2˘ in on Midnight Club 3. I figure someone will ask about MC3 at some point..
Since Wipeout is a great "quick fix" racing title, I was looking for a more involved racing experience...and IMO, Midnight Club 3 is a very impressive piece of work.
The range of customizations and vehicles (60+) are incredible, and unlike NFS Underground, you aren't forced to "rice out" your cars to progress in the game. Add in the free roaming environment (which NFSU Rivals lacks) and the other arcade races and you've got a game that will last for quite a while.
And beyond the visuals, there's a solid physics engine that gives the cars real character and distinct handling. For instance, the SRT4 I started out with will understeer all day until you get on the handbrake. By comparison, the '57 Bel Aire will swing its arse wide with a quick jab of trailbraking. It's not Gran Turismo level tuning, but when it comes to driving, I'd argue that MC3 is better than the NFS:U titles.
Like I said, just my 2˘.
