WipEout defined a generation and the PlayStation itself with a combination of stunning visuals, fantastic gameplay and its techno-fuelled soundtrack when it was released a decade ago. Now, ten years later WipEout Pure is set to achieve exactly the same thing for the PSP. ‘Prepare for the ride of your life,’ promises WipEout Pure’s title screen; and by God, Sony Liverpool doesn’t disappoint.

The WipEout series may have had the odd stutter over the last ten years, but Pure is a beautiful return to form and manages to deliver a near perfect WipEout experience. While it retains several of WipEout Fusion’s additions, including the wonderful Zone Mode, it also isn’t afraid to return to the franchise’s original roots and ditch a few of the PS2’s more annoying aspects. Fusion’s wide (some would say too wide) tracks have been replaced by lean, twisting stretches of tarmac that will test not only your limits but your PSP’s shoulder buttons with alarming regularity. Weapons are also better balanced and some of the new additions are absolute corkers – wait until you see the devastating quake released for the first time.

WipEout has always been an aesthetic delight and Pure is no exception. Outstanding lighting effects, some of the best rain we’ve ever seen on any machine (let alone a handheld) and beautifully designed tracks populated with flying vehicles and realistic neon lighting will surely convince your peers that Sony’s machine is an essential purchase. Add in some fantastic tunes, that sound even better via headphones, and a selection of boisterous spot effects and you’ve reached portable nirvana. Pure’s most satisfying aspect, though, is its sublime gameplay. While early courses in are rather sluggish, unlocking the later classes will soon see your nerves and reactions being tested to their very limits. Multiplayer is utterly superb (although the lobby is disappointing) and offers hours of competitive racing. The finely honed Time Trial and Zone modes, meanwhile, will keep you going forever.