Thursday , March 28 2024
Players get so much motor for the money here that it's impossible to dock points from the game because of the relatively high difficulty

Nintendo DS Review: Race Driver: Create & Race

This great racing game has high levels of content, customization and challenges. Players can shift through several different modes including the single player tours, multiplayer and online. The solid driving mechanics/navigation and some trial and error shortcuts can help players advance through goals quickly. The braking and acceleration works well with steady bursts on the buttons in most situations.

Helpful visuals in the other screen can help you know when the curves are approaching (some icons on the driving action screen in the lower corners would be helpful here). In rare occasions you can avoid a tight turn by hitting a barrier bumper, which can put you right back in the action without losing too much time. Game creators incorporate great use of scrolling and icons with quick little tickers that list some supplementary information (i.e. tracks, etc.).

The challenges are more easily conquered through practice challenges in the simulation mode. This mode offers racing challenges based around particular driving skills, including steering, braking and so on. Challenges include following a racing line where players gobble up dots ala Pac-Man, while others involving braking, speed, overtaking maneuvering, etc. – everything you need to become a successful racer in this game.

After training with challenges, players should continue with Free Race in the simulation mode before beginning the all-important pre-set championships in World Tour mode. Free Race offers several customizable championships with normal or pro difficulty level – nothing in this game is easy and that’s why it’s so rewarding. Choose a maximum line-up of 16 tracks and a range of one to 10 laps for each track. The World Tour obviously adds international flavor as players race in championship tiers to advance their level and car options. You can also break track records from a cache of licensed cars including Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

In track designer mode, players can engage their creative talents using the touch screen/stylus. The undo option comes in handy while assembling track pieces (special pieces unlockable as well) and using environmental building items including trees and stadiums to fill in the gaps. Players can even test-drive the course. Don’t like templates? Then use the free draw option, which again incorporates the DS touch capabilities.

The online races have very low lag and can support up to four players. The multi-play allows two to four players who all have a copy of the game to play wirelessly. Single Card Play allows two to four players to play wireless when only one player has a copy of the game. Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection play allows two or four players to play online using the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. Players can register friends and rivals while testing

Players can even check the ticker at the bottom to learn more information about certain tracks and other game elements. The music gets a bit repetitive and could use a varied or selectable music soundtrack – a minor ding. The only significant negative aspect came from some frustration in completing the challenging levels. Luckily, this issue can be easily solved by practice, practice, practice, especially when you go through the previously mentioned simulation mode and the challenge levels, which can definitely improve player performance.

Players get so much motor for the money here that it’s impossible to dock points from the game because of the relatively high difficulty. A highly recommended action packed game from Codemasters with an incredibly high replay value. The immense options and easy multiplayer game play make this a high value title, especially for racing fans.

Race Driver: Create & Race is rated E (Everyone) by the ESRB


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