Le Mans 24 Hours
Category: PlayStation 2 Game
Console: PlayStation 2 (Download Emulator)
Format: CHD
Developer: Infogrames Melbourne House
Publisher: Infogrames
Series: Test Drive
Genre: Racing
Mode: Single-player / Multiplayer
Region: NTSC
Views: 1,386,756
Downloads: 884,283
Released: 21 August 2001
File Size: 382.2 MB
Rating: 4.6/5 (386 votes)
Le Mans 24 Hours is a video game released for the PlayStation, Game Boy Color, Dreamcast, PlayStation 2, and Microsoft Windows (in two versions of the latter, one developed by Eutechnyx, like with the PlayStation version and the second version being a port of the Melbourne House version ported by Torus Games).
The Dreamcast version was ported and published by Sega in Japan on 15 March 2001, while the PlayStation 2 version was ported and published by the same company on 13 June.
Based on the famous 24 hours of Le Mans race in France, the player is invited to race the entire 24-hour endurance course or take part in a simpler arcade mode. The game also featured tracks such as Bugatti Circuit, Brno Circuit, Road Atlanta (PlayStation 2 version only), Suzuka Circuit, Donington Park and Circuit de Catalunya, as well as a weather and night system.
Le Mans 24 Hours, delivers an authentic endurance racing experience inspired by the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans event in France. Players compete in high speed races using officially licensed sports cars while managing speed, braking, and cornering across a variety of real world racing circuits.
The game offers multiple race modes suitable for both casual players and racing enthusiasts. Those looking for a quick challenge can enjoy shorter arcade style events, while experienced drivers can participate in longer endurance races that capture the spirit of real world motorsport. One of the game's standout features is the option to race under a complete day and night cycle, creating a more immersive and realistic atmosphere.
Vehicle handling focuses on precision and consistency. Players must carefully control acceleration, braking, and steering to maintain competitive lap times while avoiding mistakes that could cost valuable seconds. Different cars provide unique driving characteristics, encouraging players to adapt their racing style depending on the selected vehicle and track.
Weather and lighting changes further enhance the racing experience. As conditions evolve throughout an event, visibility and track atmosphere change, making every race feel dynamic and engaging. Success depends not only on speed but also on maintaining concentration over long periods, just like in real endurance racing.
The Dreamcast version received "universal acclaim", and the PlayStation 2 version received "generally favourable reviews", while the PC version of Le Mans 24 Hours received "mixed" reviews, according to the review aggregation website Metacritic.
"While Le Mans 24 Hours has the chops to keep circuit-based racing fans satisfied for more than a few laps, it's nothing new."
Gary Whitta said for the PlayStation 2 version
"The visuals and sound are the major sore spots of Le Mans. The graphics are grainy and not very sharp, especially when you're driving at night or in the rain. The soundtrack consists of poor crowd noises and out-of-tune music. Sadly, even the solid controls can't save Le Mans from straying off course."
Four-Eyed Dragon later said for the PlayStation 2 version
The PlayStation 2 version was nominated at The Electric Playground's 2001 Blister Awards for "Best Console Driving Game", but lost to Grand Theft Auto III.
