Rush 2049 makes admirable use of N64's graphical hardware. While there is a relatively small number of tracks, each can be played through in reverse, which allows access to a whole new set of secret areas. The Marina track is fairly tame, featuring secret areas that merely sit on the side of the racing line, while the Metro track features multitiered secret areas, in an almost maze-like setup. Mainly intended to give you an edge timewise, the secret areas often house bonus medals (which are scattered throughout the game) and, depending on the level of advantage they offer, can get pretty deadly to traverse. This adds to the game's platformish play focus and allows you to rocket into secret areas. Oftentimes, you run over switches that activate ramps.
All of Rush 2049's tracks are based in futuristic San Francisco, and as per the series' conventions, they are replete with varied hidden areas and shortcuts. The track designs range from cut-and-dried to truly outlandish. Also, on many occasions, in order to access certain secret paths, you'll use the wings to steer your car in the general direction of the paths, which requires subtle technique on your part, as the wings tend to overcompensate a bit. While by no means a hard science, the wings let you control the basic direction in which your airborne car loops and whirls, which gives you a much greater a chance of walking away from a tricky stunt. Making a welcome addition to the home version, all of the game's cars boast retractable wings, which give the stunt factor a shot in the arm by making it possible to control a vehicle's trajectory in the air.
Rush 2049's emphasis is just where it should be: In the areas of mad, arcade racing, high-flying stunts, and convoluted shortcuts. While pure racing is definitely possible - and not to mention quite enjoyable - playing an SF Rush game without attempting to take advantage of the ludicrous jumps and tempting shortcuts would equate to cheating yourself out of 60 percent of the Rush experience. In a nutshell, the series is known for its uniquely "arcade" take on the pursuit of auto racing, characterized by an almost platformer-like emphasis on shortcuts and secret paths and high-flying stunt-capable vehicles. Those new to the San Francisco Rush series will find 2049 an ideal point from which to begin. Featuring a complete and functional version of the arcade game, plus a smattering of extra modes, Rush 2049's package is definitely the one to emulate. Midway's N64 port of San Francisco Rush 2049 - the latest installment in its San Francisco Rush series - is quite a competent arcade port.