FlatOut 2
Street racing with improved physics and ragdoll stunts.
FlatOut 2 is an action racing game from Bugbear Entertainment, published by Empire Interactive for Windows, PlayStation 2, and Xbox. It launched in Russia on June 29, 2006, followed by Europe on June 30 and North America on August 1. The sequel to the 2004 original FlatOut, this installment shifts focus toward the street racing and import tuner scene. A key change is improved tire grip, giving players more control over their cars and reducing the need to fight skidding in tight corners. The game features three car classes: derby, race, and street.
An enhanced version, FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage, arrived in 2007 for Xbox 360 and Windows. A PlayStation Portable port of that version, FlatOut: Head On, followed in 2008. That same year, Virtual Programming released a Mac OS X port. In July 2024, a PC update added Steam Workshop support, improved Steam Deck compatibility, and various quality-of-life fixes. In 2023, Virtual Programming brought the game to the Mac App Store, updating it from the original 32-bit Mac OS X version to a 64-bit version compatible with Intel and Apple Silicon processors, requiring macOS Big Sur or newer.
Ragdoll physics are significantly improved over the first game. During races, the driver can be thrown from the car after a high-speed wall impact. In stunt minigames, players launch the driver to complete objectives like knocking over bowling pins, hitting dartboard spots, scoring a field goal, or flying through flaming hoops. Players use aerobatics to steer the driver in the air, but overuse increases drag, slowing the driver and possibly missing the target. If the driver falls short, a "nudge" provides a small upward boost and reduces drag. In the Stone Skipping Stunt, players must nudge just as the driver hits the water to skip efficiently and reach the farthest point.
According to Metacritic, the PC version received generally favorable reviews, while the PlayStation 2 and Xbox versions received average scores. In Japan, Famitsu gave the PS2 version a total of 28 out of 40 (four sevens).
FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage is an enhanced port of FlatOut 2 with new gameplay modes, a new soundtrack, improved graphics, and at least two new cars. Originally called FlatOut: Total Carnage, it launched in Europe on July 22, 2007, in Australia on August 1, and in North America on October 2 for Xbox 360.
Quick Facts
- Developer
- Bugbear EntertainmentPorted to Mac OS X by Virtual Programming
- Publisher
- Empire Interactive
- Designer
- Janne Alanenpää
- Programmer
- Tatu Blomberg
- Artist
- Mikko Kautto
- Series
- FlatOut
- Platforms
- Windows / PlayStation 2 / Xbox / Xbox 360 / PlayStation Portable / Mac OS X
- Genre
- Racing, action
- Modes
- Single-player, multiplayer
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
FlatOut 2 shifts the series' focus toward the street racing and import tuner scene, a departure from the original game's theme. A notable change is the tire grip system, which allows players to take more control of their car and worry less about skidding in tight turns. The game features three car classes: derby, race, and street.
The ragdoll physics were greatly improved from the previous game. During races, the driver may be thrown out of the car if slammed into a wall at high speed. In stunt minigames, players can shoot the driver out of the car to complete objectives such as knocking down bowling pins, hitting dartboard spots, scoring a field goal, or flying through flaming hoops. Players use 'aerobatics' to control the driver in-flight, but overusing it increases drag, slowing the driver down. A 'nudge' mechanic provides a small upward boost and reduces drag; in the Stone Skipping Stunt minigame, players must nudge just as the driver hits the water surface to skip most efficiently.
Reader's Guide
FlatOut 2 is notable for its enhanced ragdoll physics and stunt minigames, which became a hallmark of the series. The game's shift to a street racing theme and improved tire grip offered a different driving experience from its predecessor. Its positive critical reception, particularly for the PC version, helped solidify the franchise's reputation. The game later received an enhanced port, FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage, for Xbox 360 and Windows in 2007, which introduced new modes, graphics, and cars. A PlayStation Portable version, FlatOut: Head On, followed in 2008. The PC version received a 2024 update adding Steam Workshop support, improved Steam Deck compatibility, and quality-of-life improvements. In 2023, Virtual Programming released a 64-bit Mac version compatible with Intel and Apple Silicon processors, requiring macOS Big Sur or newer. These updates extended the game's lifespan and accessibility, maintaining its relevance in the racing game landscape.
Did You Know?
- Stunt minigames include knocking down bowling pins, hitting dartboard spots, and scoring a field goal.
- The game has three car classes: derby, race, and street.
- A 2024 update added Steam Workshop support and improved Steam Deck compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FlatOut 2 and who made it?
FlatOut 2 is a 2006 action racing sequel developed by Bugbear Entertainment and published by Empire Interactive. It pivots the series toward street racing and import tuner culture while keeping the destruction and ragdoll stunts fans loved in the 2004 original.
What car classes can you play in FlatOut 2?
The game sorts its roster into three classes: derby, race, and street. Each class targets a different style of play, from demolition-style mayhem to circuit competition to underground street showdowns.
How does FlatOut 2's handling compare to the first game?
The sequel overhauled tire grip so cars hold through tight corners far more predictably. Players no longer have to fight constant skidding, making street-racing lines feel more controllable and responsive.
When was FlatOut 2 released and on which platforms?
It hit shelves in Russia on June 29, 2006, Europe on June 30, and North America on August 1, 2006. The title was available on Windows PC, PlayStation 2, and Xbox.
How did critics rate FlatOut 2 across platforms?
The PC build drew generally favorable Metacritic scores, whereas the PlayStation 2 and Xbox versions landed in the average range. An enhanced re-release, FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage, later packaged extra content for fans wanting more out of the series.
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