Between the orientation tilt and the fabulous in-car view, you'll get sucked right into the on-track action.

Real Racing HD was the first real wow-inducing game at the original iPad launch, so it's fitting that the sequel serves the exact same purpose for the iPad 2. Though you can certainly play this grand simulation on the first iPad, owners of Apple's new tablet will see an extra sparkle to the robust visual upgrade, with sharp details popping out from the more vibrant backdrops and licensed cars, which uniformly replace the mostly generic lineup of the first game.

Even with 16 cars on the track -- a huge bump up from six in the original -- everything moves at an impressive clip, and whether you're driving a Volvo or a Volkswagen (or one of the seven other brands in the game), get ready to see bumpers and side mirrors knocked off during the race.

Already down a side mirror and that back bumper's not looking so hot.

Luckily, Real Racing 2 HD isn't just a looker. It's also an excellent mobile simulation, offering sharp driving action on a variety of challenging courses, complete with a lengthy (albeit very straightforward) career mode. As in the first game, the handling feels spot-on, regardless of your preferred control scheme, and you can customize the vehicles with light upgrades as you earn in-game cash and reputation points. Though the driving can feel a bit clinical -- not an uncommon complaint for sim-oriented racers on any platform -- whipping around the bends with the in-car view engaged definitely ratchets up the intensity.

Firemint really went the extra mile with Real Racing 2 HD, which could have been a quick update on the original's success but manages to refine and expand on nearly every aspect of the experience, from the significant visual bump and added vehicle damage to the lengthier career and larger racing pack. Even better are the expanded (and fantastic) online races, which support up to 16 total drivers and can be played against users of the iPhone version.

Licensed cars from nine manufacturers (this one's a Volvo) replace the lookalike-heavy lineup from the original Real Racing HD.

The bottom line. No other portable racer offers nearly as robust and refined an experience as Real Racing 2 HD, and the impending addition of 1080p output support means even more fun is around the next turn.