Ascaron has just released TrackMania Nations Forever, a free downloadable game for the PC. This sequel to TrackMania Nations offers more extreme car racing action, with a new version of the "stadium" environment and a whopping 65 fresh tracks to burn around. There's a solo player mode, although the real show is the multiplayer racing.

For the first time, players of the free version of TrackMania will be able to compete in online races against buyers of the retail game. A new track editor is also included in the package, and apparently it's been simplified so even novices can have a bash at creating their very own Brands Hatch.

Also keep an eye out for TrackMania United Forever, the next retail version of the racing series which contains a boot-load of extra features over and above the freeware game. It will be launched this summer, priced £19.99.