A Whole New World

The amount of freedom offered by open-world games is hard to resist, and they do a fantastic job of scratching that exploration itch. The genre also lends itself well to long games chocked full of activities, and some immersive open-world titles can even be played indefinitely. For adventurers who want to experience the best of what the genre has to offer, these ten games are not to be missed.

[caption id="attachment_381058" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Image via Playground Games.[/caption]

10. Forza Horizon 5

When open-world games are discussed, racing games are often neglected, yet they have a noteworthy presence in the genre. Forza Horizon 5 features curvy roads that wind through Mexico, exposing racers to picture-perfect scenery. It's a must-play title for all gearheads, and with a massive catalog of customizable cars available, it has the potential to provide endless hours of fun.

[caption id="attachment_381050" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid.[/caption]

9. Grand Theft Auto 5

GTA 5 presents a massive urban map for players to raise hell in, and it manages to go a step further than its predecessors by featuring three protagonists that players can switch between on the fly. The storylines of the trio intertwine satisfyingly, and their antics provide hours of high-stakes action. As one of the bestselling games of all time, GTA 5 has cemented its place in gaming history, and despite its age, it still manages to compete favorably against recent open-world titles.

[caption id="attachment_381051" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid.[/caption]

8. Shadow of the Colossus

While Shadow of the Colossus certainly packs both good gameplay and a surprisingly emotional story, its unique place in gaming is, to some degree, a product of the atmosphere created by the open-world design. Wander ventures through a hauntingly empty world, though it is not a void. Crumbling architecture and hidden ruins tell ancient stories without words. Nothing is ever fully explained, and the world remains a mysterious realm filled with structures and forces far beyond Wander's comprehension.

[caption id="attachment_381057" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Image via CD Projekt Red.[/caption]

7. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3, released in 2015, proved to the world that CD Projekt Red can box with the best in the open-world genre. It follows Geralt on his quest to rescue Ciri. Along the way, players get to explore an enormous world filled with quests that seldom feel like busy work. A late 2022 re-release of the game on current-gen systems has polished the game even further, giving fans a reason to jump back into Andrzej Sapkowski's fantasy world.

[caption id="attachment_381056" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Image via Bethesda[/caption]

6. The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim

The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim made its first appearance on the now-iconic date of 11 November 2011, and it has remained a permanent fixture in gaming culture, with re-releases on the Nintendo Switch and current-gen consoles ensuring that it can be played almost anywhere. Skyrim has yet to overstay its welcome in part due to the active modding community that has developed around it. With the right mods, it feels like an entirely different game.

[caption id="attachment_381052" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid.[/caption]

5. Horizon Forbidden West

Horizon Forbidden West doesn't reinvent the wheel in terms of open-world gameplay, and there are plenty of other games that follow a somewhat similar structure. What sets it apart from its competitors is its beauty. It manages to artfully blend sci-fi robots with primitive tribes and wild jungles, and the result is an admirably unique aesthetic. Best of all, this is presented to players with graphics that make the game one of the most gorgeous of all time.

[caption id="attachment_381053" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid.[/caption]

4. Elden Ring

FromSoftware's critically acclaimed Elden Ring blends the studio's notoriously difficult combat with an open-world dripping with enchanting fantasy elements courtesy of A Song of Ice and Fire's George R.R. Martin. The game's greatest contribution to the genre comes from its willingness to turn its back on popular modern conventions that emphasize easy-to-understand user experiences propped up by detailed HUDs. In comparison, Elden Ring adopts a minimalist approach, allowing players to get lost and carve out a unique adventure.

[caption id="attachment_381054" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid.[/caption]

3. Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain

Metal Gear 5: The Phantom Pain continues to innovate the franchise's stealth gameplay, though it is applied to an open-world environment. As usual, players find themselves on solo missions that involve infiltrating enemy bases. However, the sprawling open world allows for an almost infinite number of ways to complete objectives. Snake also has a plethora of weapons - including cardboard boxes and water guns - to use ingeniously.

[caption id="attachment_381066" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid.[/caption]

2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Like other highly critically acclaimed titles in the genre, Breath of the Wild features an awe-inspiringly intricate world. The sequel, Tears of the Kingdom continues to build on Breath of the Wild's successful foundation.

Perhaps most notably, Link now can fuse items. This has opened a new realm of creativity, as players can now craft new weapons and build structures that allow them to interact with the world in new ways. When it comes to emergent gameplay that rewards imagination, Tears of the Kingdom has set a new bar.

[caption id="attachment_381055" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid.[/caption]

1. Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 follows the Van Der Linde gang as its member attempt to cope with the growing wave of industrialization and societal changes that spell the end for their outlaw days. Players take the role of Arthur Morgan, and the world presented is one teeming with things to do.

Though the game is primarily an American Western, it has strong naturalist themes, and players can put the guns away and just enjoy the untamed acres. When it comes to intricate open-world design, Red Dead Redemption 2 sits at the top, providing an unparalleled example of just how immersive open-world games can get.

Of course, open-world games do have their downsides. They tend to be buggy, and poor game design can result in titles that are filled with repetitive tasks and other forms of tiresome bloat. Nevertheless, when the developers get it right, as is the case with the above titles, they provide some of the best gaming experiences available.

The post The top 10 best open-world games out right now, ranked appeared first on Destructoid.

Hundreds of levels, vehicles, drivers, and other rewards

LEGO 2K Drive might not even be off of the starting grid just yet, but that hasn't prevented publisher 2K Games from announcing four seasons of post-release content, as well as the premium-paid "Drive Pass."

Starting in June, LEGO 2K Drive will begin its rollout of four seasons of additional content, each containing "100 levels" as well as new vehicles, drivers, stickers, sounds, brick packs, and other rewards. Most of this content will be free to all players as each season arrives, but an additional paid "Drive Pass" will let brick-laden drivers gun through an array of additional rewards, which will include exclusive vehicles sponsored by real-world brands such as Dodge and Nissan.

https://twitter.com/LEGO_2K_HUB/status/1654124346632470529?s=20

2K also notes that the LEGO 2K Drive seasons will not have time limits, so anyone picking up the free or premium Drive Pass will not be forced to grind through to the end before any specific deadline. More details as to the contents of the seasons will be released as each respective event approaches. LEGO 2K Drive, first revealed back in March, adapts the globally popular brick-based toy to the raceway, and will allow players to engage in local and online races, while also building vehicles, playing mini-games, and taking on a full single-player story campaign.

LEGO 2K Drive launches May 19 on PlayStation, PC, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. Multiple editions of the title are now available for pre-order, ranging from a standard $60-70 edition to a princely $120 "Awesome Rivals" Edition.

The post LEGO 2K Drive is getting a four-season ‘Drive Pass’ appeared first on Destructoid.

Rainbow beach racer

I’d be surprised if Victory Heat Rally didn’t catch your eye. It’s an intoxicatingly colorful and energetic-looking title. Based on the aesthetic from Sega Super Scaler racers like Power Drift and Rad Mobile, it’s a far cry from the mostly drab modern racing market. I’ve been following it for what feels like forever, but it’s taken me some time to get around to the demo.

Thankfully, Victory Heat Rally is more than just appearances. Without hyperbole, this is one of the most compelling racing titles I’ve played in a long time. It’s fast, vibrant, and deftly captures the attention-grabbing magic of old arcade titles. Just by following its development, I knew that Victory Heat Rally was going to be a worthwhile title, but I couldn’t imagine it would be this good.

[caption id="attachment_373870" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

Super Scaler power

The most recent demo, Shakedown Demo Gold, is actually a considerable slice of gameplay. While it took me a half-hour to see what I wanted to see, it was more than I expected it to give up. Of the 12 planned racers, three of them are featured in the demo, but only one is unlocked from the start. I lost count of how many tracks there are, but at least more than four of the planned 36.

There’s a career mode that takes you through a series of challenges ranging from avoiding traffic cones to straight-up racing. This culminates in a more standard grand prix event.

After finishing that, you can noodle around with arcade mode or time trial. There’s also multi-player present in the final version. As I said, it won’t keep you going indefinitely, but it’s more than just a quick sampling.

[caption id="attachment_373871" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

Stay off my lawn

While Victory Heat Rally bases itself on the visuals of Super Scalers, I’m reasonably certain the tracks are fully 3D. Early videos showed it using sprite scaling for the tracks, but this seems to have been dropped somewhere down the line. The track design does still harken back to Power Drift with its looping design and tall bridges. Likewise, the cars are all still 2D, as is the set dressing at the side of the road. The aesthetic is still there, even if the technique isn’t.

Another carry-over is an absolutely mad camera system. It tilts and rolls in with the car in a way that isn’t seen very often today. Probably because it likely induces motion sickness in anyone vulnerable. I don’t have a problem with it, possibly since I’ve had a lifetime of watching movement with a stationary body. However, anyone who does have trouble with the effect can turn it off in the options.

For people like me who prefer young people to stay off their lawn, there’s a pixel scale option in the video menu. While this may be for performance purposes, I liked playing with it off. It essentially makes the sprite rotation less smooth and distant objects feel more pixelated. Sort of like a low-resolution 2D game. What I’m saying is it heightens Victory Heat Rally’s retro look. If you love the arcade aesthetic, make sure to switch that off in the options.

[caption id="attachment_373872" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

Happy wheels

But this wouldn’t matter if the driving wasn’t up to standard, and thankfully, it’s great. The drift button is separate from the brake, which is as the Gods of Inertia always intended. The Brake is, after all, a vestigial feature; no one actually uses it.

Drifting isn’t just a good way to get around curves. Victory Heat Rally also takes a page from recent Mario Kart games and builds up boost while your wheels are shaved down by the pavement. It’s a very similar system in which the longer you hold the drift, the larger your boost will be coming out of it.

While the demo only features three cars, you can tune each one to your liking. I didn’t get that creative, but again, it only took me a half-hour to get through the campaign. Still, you should be able tune the cars to your liking. I just want to see the colorful graphics.

[caption id="attachment_373873" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

The Lost Arcade

Victory Heat Rally feels like this branch of racing games that just never grew. We got 3D graphics, and then everyone seemed to agree that we’re just going to make simulators now, and truly unique and outlandish racing games are the outlier. Motorstorm and Burnout are basically as ridiculous as cars get recently, and both of those properties are just dead. We’ve still got Mario Kart, so that’s something.

I want Victory Heat Rally to be a massively influential title that spurs on a wave of cartoony arcade racers. It probably won’t be, but talking enthusiastically about something is all I can really do to try and make that a reality. I just love it so much, and I can’t wait until the full version comes out.

I don’t know how long that will be. The Shakedown Demo Gold is a few months old, but there isn’t much indication on when the finished version is coming. Things have slowed down because the core developer has become a parent, and they’re trying to practice healthy working habits. I can respect that, but I’m really looking forward to playing more.

The post Victory Heat Rally feels like a missing link in arcade racers appeared first on Destructoid.

Cruis'n across the kitchen

Several years ago we covered Mario Kart Live, the "mixed reality" RC-car-like game from Velan Studios.  I had a blast playing it (and my family even ended up buying a Luigi cart to race with our kid), but you could clearly see that it was a bit limited in what it was trying to do. Well, Velan is back with Hot Wheels: Rift Rally, and it feels like a more fully-realized experience. Given the cost, that's ideal!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0Q0fYl0pH0

Hot Wheels: Rift Rally (iOS, PS4, PS5 [reviewed])
Developer: Velan Studios
Publisher: Velan Studios
Released: March 31
MSRP: $129.99 (standard edition), $149.99 (collector's edition)

[gallery columns="4" size="large" link="file" ids="371554,371557,371558,371555"]

Hot Wheels: Rift Rally's setup is pretty painless

Just like Mario Kart Live, Hot Wheels: Rift Rally uses a remote control car (with a camera) that interfaces with software to simulate a racing game in a real life environment. While Mario isn't poking out of the driver's seat being cute, this iteration is cleverly called the "Chameleon Car," which can morph into tons of different classic Hot Wheels racers in-game.

By placing four "gates" throughout your house, you'll be able to see the track on the screen, which includes any real hazards or layouts you devise on your own. The tech is slick, and Rift Rally supports PVP as well as AI opponents.

Setting it all up was painless for me. The car has a little side panel that can be opened for USB charging, and from there you need to load up the iOS or PS4/PS5 app. Rift Rally will walk you through everything organically (including connecting the car and instructions for building the gates by hand); a format that really reminded me of the step-by-step process Nintendo uses for Labo.

There are two potential connection types for Rift Rally:

• Wifi
• Direct connection

This is a huge step up from Mario Kart Live, as the Rift Rally Wifi option hosts a significantly more stable connection in my household. In all, it took me around three minutes to fully get up and running.

[gallery link="file" size="large" ids="371566,371567,371568"]

Rift Rally has a campaign, which does some heavy lifting

Rift Rally is as simple or as complex as you want: as evidenced by the fact that everyone in my immediate family enjoyed interacting with the game in different ways. You can focus more on traditional driving or try and master some of the "stunt-centric" intricacies to get an edge; like burning out, drifting, and popping wheelies.

The campaign is a huge boon as it walks you through all of these concepts and sends you on your way through a small series of stages; augmenting a traditional free play mode. There are more significant rewards this time around, including randomized cars after leveling up; as well as extras like more music tracks. Thankfully, Rift Rally's campaign isn't solely racing-focused: there are challenges too, like destroying drones on a track before they can destroy the map or racing side-by-side with monsters or other digital hazards. All that wackiness marries the stunt and racing aspect of Rift Rally in an interesting way that isn't too out there to the point where it impedes gameplay.

You do still need what I could call a "medium-sized room" (at least) to play it comfortably, which is going to be a limiting factor once again for anyone looking to buy into this mixed reality universe. The small caveat is that Rift Rally doesn't require a ton of room to stunt around in, and you can do more with less compared to Mario Kart Live.

Stunt mode is where I spent most of my time

Stunt mode is the other core focus of the game, which is basically just "messing around for points." It's also the thing my kid loves the most. As a model "free play" game type you're able to try out all sorts of weird jumps and track layouts: you don't even need to set up the gates at all.

It's a great place to train and try out drifting and burning out properly, and you'll earn levels/experience for doing it. Velan was really savvy to add this mode in, as I tend to oscillate between blowing off some steam on a lazy weekend evening with stunt mode and trying to make actual progress. Again, all of it leads to unlocks, so it's not wasted time either way if you're progression-oriented.

I wasn't able to test out multiplayer pre-launch (because I only had access to one car, and couldn't find anyone online). But the inclusion of these at all will clearly extend the game's longevity in our house, especially with online play on the table.

[caption id="attachment_371569" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

If you were on the fence about Mario Kart Live, IP aside, Rift Rally is a more fully featured game

Obviously, some folks are going to get a lot of joy out of Mario Kart Live because of the sights and sounds of the Mario IP alone. I get it! The pitch probably sold itself, as the entire concept of Mario Kart in real life is fun on paper all the way to practice.

Yet, Hot Wheels: Rift Rally uses everything the team learned from their prior project to keep you playing a bit longer; which is something you want from a game that costs $100+ and requires a toy to function. We'll definitely be alternating between this and Mario Kart Live in the future, skewed toward digging into Rift Rally has to offer.

_{[This review is based on a retail build of the game provided by the publisher. 8.5/10]}

The post Hot Wheels: Rift Rally feels like a natural evolution of Mario Kart Live appeared first on Destructoid.

The Wave 4 release date is locked in for March 9, 2023

A new tweet from Nintendo this morning confirmed what we've all been waiting for: a date for Wave 4 of the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe pass. As a refresh, this multi-wave DLC release will consist of six waves in total, and the first wave dropped in March of 2022. Yep, we're coming up on a full year into this DLC plan, and I have to say, it's been going great so far.

Here are all of the tracks confirmed for Wave 4 of the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass (as well as Birdo, who is a medium weight class racer):

• Tour Singapore Speedway (Mario Kart Tour)
• Tour Bangkok Rush (Mario Kart Tour)
• Wii DK Summit (Mario Kart Wii)
• Tour Amsterdam Drift (Mario Kart Tour)
• GBA Riverside Park (Mario Kart: Super Circuit)
• DS Mario Circuit (Mario Kart DS)
• GCN Waluigi Stadium (Mario Kart: Double Dash)
• Yoshi's Island (New)

Although I really dig the fresh whiff of nostalgia some of these returning tracks are wafting in, I have to say, I really love that we're able to play some of the better Mario Kart Tour tracks without having to actually play Mario Kart Tour on mobile. Get my drift? The new tracks are icing on the cake too, and I launch right into those immediately.

All of the above Wave 4 tracks will drop on March 9, next week. Expect impressions shortly afterward! As a reminder, the Booster Course Pass (all six waves, which includes 48 courses) is $24.99, or included with the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack.

https://twitter.com/NintendoAmerica/status/1631293723693789184

Check out our extensive review coverage of all of the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe wave so far:

• Wave 1
• Wave 2
• Wave 3

The post Surprise! Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Wave 4 is out next week appeared first on Destructoid.

Gentlemen, Start Your Engines...

Ubisoft has announced the next release in its racing game series, The Crew — The Crew Motorfest is currently in development for PlayStation, PC, and Xbox platforms and will hit the gas later in 2023.

"Welcome to Motorfest!" reads the teaser trailer blurb. "The newest iteration in The Crew franchise, The Crew Motorfest brings you to a new open world inspired by the Hawaiian island of O'ahu. Book your ticket for a one-of-a-kind car festival and get ready for a celebration of the best of car culture, featuring an unparalleled diversity of game modes and immersive driving experiences."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xF45nzjSq2E&ab_channel=Ubisoft

The post Ubisoft reveals The Crew Motorfest, coming later in 2023 appeared first on Destructoid.

The Sound of the Underground

If I could do it all over again, I wouldn't get out of shape, I would've gotten into this gig at a younger age, and, above all, I would've learned to drive as soon as I was out of school. And this holiday — as the frosted winter air and expensive hotel prices keep me from a fun party — I'm reminded of how much freedom the open road allows those with four wheels and a tank of gas. No clock checking, no canceled buses, and no overnight stay necessary. Just you and the road...

...And a thousand misanthropic, angry people in huge metal death machines.

In addition to freedom, having your own vehicle provides some with a sense of identity, even purpose. These are the people for whom the car is like a trophy lover, to be gifted with expensive presents, treated with love and affection, and paraded about as a symbol of status, pride, wealth, or style. And there are those who then take this six-figure token and utilize it for terrifying, death-defying races, willing to risk it all — body and wallet — for the cred of the crew and the heat of the fuzz. Couldn't be me... I grew up on Public Information Films.

Need for Speed Unbound understands this mentality and appreciates how, for some gearheads, the vehicle and its driver are one, with equal pride shared in looks, moves, vibe, and reputation. In the world of NFSU, Car and Driver are presented as a tag team, gunning for gold against the backdrop of the flamboyant and lucrative world of upmarket street racing.

And while the irresponsible, life-threatening nature of the "real life" scenario is undeniable, the stylized world of NFS offers pure escapism, where everyone is beautiful, your wallet is bottomless, your garage overstocked, and crashing your car into a bollard at 173 mph is merely a harmless, threat-free byproduct of that golden chase for The Red Line. Buckle up.

Need for Speed Unbound (PS5 [reviewed], PC, Xbox Series X/S)
Developer: Criterion Games
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Released: December 2, 2022
MSRP: $69.99

Need for Speed Unbound, as its name would suggest, represents an amalgamation of the many sub-series within the Need for Speed franchise. Whereas the past three decades have seen the racing franchise focus on a certain aspect of rubber-burnin' — from the mission-based story of Undercover to the five-oh bothering cinematic style of Hot Pursuit — NFSU presents something of a "Best of" for the decades-long franchise; a compendium of all of the modes, ideas, and aspirations of the series' legacy, combined into one red-hot title.

That said, there's no denying that the overall vibe of NFSU is most certainly the Need for Speed Underground series — bedecked in outlaw culture, dangerous street dueling, flashy wheels, and pop-off drivers declaring war like it's WrestleMania. Of all of the titles to propel the NFS brand into the ninth generation, EA has deftly chosen to go for the one sub-series that not only holds perhaps the most nostalgic memories for the NFS community at large, but also seems the most culturally contemporary for today's flash, cash, and gas world.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5aU75h7Yzs&ab_channel=NeedforSpeed

Take me back to the Paradise City

Need for Speed Unbound offers a full palette of colors from the NFS paintbox. Racers can enjoy the highway/mountain burns of NFS proper, or the wheel-squealing runs through the dangerous nightlife of Underground, or indulge in a spot of police bothering chaos, as featured in Hot Pursuit (complete with NFS HEAT's star system). In addition to these activities, all cleanly imbued into the game world, players can also simply let rip throughout Lakeshore itself — ripping through time trials, pulling off record drifts, smashing billboards, or racking up a sightseeing tour of every gas station in the 'berg.

Lakeshore is packed with diversions for anyone living life one mile at a time.

If this all sounds a little familiar, then that's probably by design, as NFSU has more than a hint of Burnout: Paradise about it. Criterion's own genre-defining open-world racer was clearly at the forefront of the developer's mind when it came to the design and execution of Lakeshore City, and the experience in creating the rival series offers a boon in Unbound's favor. Between story chapters, cop chases, and 007-esque stuntwork, it is surprisingly easy to lose hours of playtime simply ripping up the city, smashing speed limit records, or entering impromptu races, time trials, and the dangerous off-road obstacle course known as "The Takeover".

Lakeshore City is your oyster, so to speak, and you decide how to spend your time in it.

Thanks, bants. Thbants.

The spine of NFS Unbound is its story mode — an almost impressively rote and blah tale of betrayal, revenge, and retribution, set within the city's highly lucrative, ego-driven world of midnight clubs and pseudo-homicidal drivers. The player's custom protagonist embarks on a hilariously predictable and shockingly cliche narrative — one which offers little in the way of surprises to anyone versed in the cinematic oeuvre of celebrated thespian Vin Diesel.

While progressing through the story, all in-game earnings, (whether bagged on the streets or at the bookies), can be blown on a huge gallery of vehicles and upgrades, with the player gunning their way through a tiered licensing system and obtaining the machinery necessary to qualify for the city's more elite street circuits. As Lakeshore opens up, a selection of side objectives and jobs-for-hire become available, from getting hot wheels (not the toys) out of the city under the watchful eyes of the feds, to becoming the most One-Star-Rated Uber driver in history. These missions all offer their own rewards, unlocking new safehouses as well as access to more vehicles and upgrades.

While all of this activity is fun and enjoyable, it has to be noted that NFSU's narrative and script absolutely do not make the grade. The soundtrack is perfectly suited for folk far younger and cooler than I, and the voice acting is perfectly fine, but the dialogue is atrocious, wall-to-wall with insufferable, cookie-cutter "bants". Once a character ended a call with "gotta bounce, yo, craving boba", I knew that we'd gone beyond "I'm  just too old" and into the realm of focus-group-approved dialogue.

It is, as the kids would say, Cringe AF.

What's going on under the hood?

Developed by the masterful Criterion Games, Need for Speed Unbound is a spectacularly polished title, which goes to great lengths to utilize the power of the ninth-gen platform. Even when run in Performance Mode, (and why not?), NFSU is a visual marvel, with atmospheric use of light, shadow, reflections, weather effects, and other visual trickery to dazzle the eyes. And when the lights go down and the roughest of riders come out to play, then the atmosphere truly comes into its own, as the neon blur of the city, the flare of the headlights, and that threatening flash of red and blue in the rearview bring the world of NFSU to life.

The key to any racer lies in its handling, and Unbound is pretty darn slick. Each and every vehicle feels accurately tuned to its bespoke ability, while ensuring that the whole game never feels too "simulation". While perhaps the most technically proficient NFS title in years, engagement remains a top priority. Criterion has ensured that the newly overhauled mechanics never get in the way of simply having a rip-roaring time. NFSU remains a fully accessible "arcade" title — to be enjoyed by fans of Gran Turismo or Crash Team Racing.

NFS Unbound has flash and flare in spades. The blend of "real-life" visuals with cel-shaded graffiti animation is one of the legitimately coolest mechanics added to a racer in years, and the juxtaposition of the two visual elements works because of, not in spite of, the tonal clash. This whole vibe — Grit meets Party — is NFSU's personality, and I would hope that a potential sequel would see Criterion dare to go even further with this style, presenting a racer that feels truly ripped from the walls of the inner city.

NFSU is kitted out with an incredibly deep customization system, featuring bespoke livery designs, a vast palette of colors, multiple metal types, and hundreds of accessories, underglows, rims, exhausts, bumpers, spoilers, and even horns. NFSU allows those with the time and prerogative the opportunity to build a custom garage full of beautiful, bespoke vehicles. And whether your dream car is the latest Lambo or The Homer, you'll likely find that you're able to capture your perfect aesthetic for your four-wheel babies.

Oh, and yes, the player avatar is basically as customizable as the cars themselves — with an ever-growing catalog of real-name brand clothing, as well as myriad options for skin tone, hair, build, makeup, and taunts. You gotta love how developers have basically found a way to crowbar WWE SmackDown's Create-a-Wrestler mode into every gaming franchise. Sadly, despite an intense search, I'm yet to find Michelle Rodriguez's pleather flame plants from the first Fast & Furious movie...

...And we were so close to 10/10.

I can't drive 55

Ever since its heady, 3DO-based inception back in 1994, The Need for Speed has struggled to maintain its grip as the King of the Arcade Racer. The ensuing decades have seen the series hit its highest highs and lowest lows as it attempts to find its sweet spot in a pretty fierce, hardware-driven marketplace.

With Need for Speed Unbound, however, Criterion and EA have successfully married the finer points of the series' past to Criterion's own excellence in delivering taut and exciting racing action. And, further bolstered by the power of the ninth generation, new technologies afford NFSU the burst of nitrous that the series has chased for some time, revitalizing a brand that many had thought was ready for the scrapper's yard.

Need for Speed Unbound is a highly enjoyable and splendidly polished arcade racer. Criterion has picked meticulously through almost 30 years of NFS legacy, stitching together its finest elements to create a brilliant, feature-packed amalgamation that offers compelling gameplay, deep design, and dazzling aesthetics. Simply put, Need for Speed Unbound is one of the best entries in the history of the franchise.

_{[This review is based on a retail build of the game provided by the publisher.]}

The post Review: Need for Speed Unbound appeared first on Destructoid.

25 years of Real Driving excellence

Today is the 25th anniversary of gaming's foremost driving simulator, Gran Turismo. And to celebrate the occasion, Sony Interactive Entertainment and Polyphony Digital released a video message, thanking the community and the team for delivering over two decades of critically acclaimed racing action.

The first Gran Turismo launched on PlayStation on December 23, 1997, kicking off a franchise that aimed to bring a sense of realism and technical authenticity to the racing game genre. With the ever-evolving technology of PlayStation hardware, developer Polyphony Digital has been afforded the opportunity to push the envelope further and further, with sequels boasting increasingly photo-realistic visuals and immersive driving physics almost unparalleled in the genre.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zIcBFcLM7U&ab_channel=GRANTURISMOTV

A lengthy letter from Polyphony Digital CEO Kazunori Yamauchi, released for the anniversary, reflects on the history of the franchise, while also revealing that a staggering 90 million Gran Turismo titles have been sold since the series' debut. Yamauchi speaks of his and the Polyphony team's immense pride in the franchise, noting that the studio still carries a sense of revitalized determination into the current and forthcoming gaming generations.

"I can’t ever thank enough the Gran Turismo users and people of the Gran Turismo community who have played our new titles, which at times could be said to have been very experimental, writes Yamauchi. "We are here today because of all the people who supported us. I believe the Gran Turismo series have always pursued “beauty.” The beauty of the cars, the beauty of the scenery, the beauty of the lighting, the beauty of driving, the beauty of sounds/music and the beauty of the graphics."

"The “pursuit of beauty” is the motivation for creating Gran Turismo."

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YOU get a Blue Shell, and YOU get a Blue Shell...

If the Blue Shell is the bane of your existence, then your world is about to get a little more chaotic, as Nintendo has released a brand new update for its long-life racer Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which allows players to customize the exact items received when driving over item boxes!

The "Custom Item" feature allows players to pick and choose from the list of buffs, debuffs, and weapons available from Mario Kart 8 Deluxe's iconic arsenal. So you can receive a Red Shell every time, or you could ban Red Shells entirely. Not enough Banana Skins? Give them to EVERYBODY! Or, if you want to put your karting skills to the ultimate test, turn off items entirely, and may the best Power Slider win.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iaCRaF8ET8

Of course, this new feature is not available in all modes, so don't expect to jump into Online Vs. with a fistful of Lightning Bolts. But, for offline multiplayer races, battle modes, and the like, you and your fellow racers can now choose exactly which items will or will not appear on your next run around Rainbow Road. The Custom Item feature sounds pretty neat and I kinda wish it had been utilized in every single Mario Kart release.

In addition to the new feature, today's update sees the arrival of Booster Course Pass Wave 3. As previously noted, this particular round of DLC includes eight classic tracks rolling out across two cups. For a full list of the newly featured raceways, check out our previous report or the trailer above. 2023 will see the arrival of three further Booster Course packs, ultimately building to a grand total of almost 50 additional courses.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is available now on Nintendo Switch.

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Mickey pumps the brakes

[Update: Gameloft released a new CGI trailer to help keep the engines purring for Disney Speedstorm.]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0-7YTl6Sg8

Gameloft has announced that its cartoonish karter Disney Speedstorm will no longer meet its initially planned 2022 release date — The free-to-play racer has been pushed back to 2023, when it will launch on PlayStation, PC, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch platforms.

"We have been working diligently to craft an amazing racing experience for Disney Speedstorm, capturing our vision of the exciting magic fans enjoy in their favorite Disney and Pixar characters and games," said Gameloft in a statement posted to Twitter. "We want fans to not only be entertained, but to enjoy a fast-paced and competitive racing experience they will return to play for years to come."

"With this in mind and after careful consideration, we have decided to delay the worldwide release of Disney Speedstorm to meet our expectations and provide players with a more immersive racing experience, customization offerings, game modes, and more. Fans are invited to join us on the speedway when Disney Speedstorm launches in 2023 on PC and consoles."

First revealed in February of this year, Disney Speedstorm is a curious-looking title that will adapt The House of Mouse's huge litany of characters and worlds to the racetrack in rubber-burnin', power-slidin' action. Players will select characters and vehicles based on series such as Monsters Inc., Pirates of the Caribbean, Mulan, Beauty and the Beast, and other famous franchises before tearing up themed tracks in online and offline play. Given the enormity of the Disney catalog, Gameloft is liking hoping for a long-life title, with new karts, tracks, and racers added over the ensuing seasons.

Disney Speedstorm is currently in development for PlayStation, PC, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.

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Pump the Brakes

Electronic Arts, in an internal statement acquired by GamesIndustry.biz, has announced that it is ending the Project CARS racing franchise, effective immediately. This makes the final release in the simulation series the mobile title Project CARS GO, which launched on iOS and Android in 2021.

"Today we announced internally an update to our racing portfolio. Following an evaluation of the next Project CARS title and its longer-term growth potential, we have made the decision to stop further development and investment for the franchise," reads the statement. "Decisions like these are very hard, but allow us to prioritise our focus in areas where we believe we have the strongest opportunity to create experiences that fans will love."

"We are working with everyone impacted by this decision to place them into suitable roles across our EA Sports and racing portfolio, as well as other parts of EA, wherever we can. Our priority now is on providing as much support as possible to our people through this transition."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8BPzkjvV_Rk

The Project CARS IP became the property of EA following the purchase of Codemasters and its subsidiaries, (including CARS developer Slightly Mad Studios), in December 2020. At the time of purchase, Slightly Mad had somewhere in the region of 150 employees, and so here's to hoping that EA will ensure new roles for the studio's staff throughout its myriad other development and publishing wings.

There have been four Project CARS games in total, including Project CARS GO. Though the first two games received critical and fan acclaim, Project CARS 3 was less warmly received. Earlier this year, it was announced that the first two titles were to be delisted from sale due to the expiration of in-game licenses, and it would seem that EA has decided that this particular racer has run its course.

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Mee-Maw, Mee-Maw...

While I will be the first to admit I'm totally garbo at racing games, I can't help but be bewitched at the rollout of trailers for upcoming Electronic Arts release Need for Speed Unbound — Case in point: This dazzling new preview, which spotlights our street racers in the midst of a little tête-à-tête with The Law.

The "Risk & Reward" trailer spotlights the dangerous with highly effective driving abilities that will help our night riders outrun Five-Oh, out in force and ready to put an end to their nefarious nocturnal activities. Hazardous high-speed drifts, bone-rattling handbrake turns, and a dose of the old nitrous oxide are all tools that will help the savvy racer put distance between themselves and a jail cell — at the ultimate risk of a brutal, wall-shattering smash and the loss of more than just First Place.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5aU75h7Yzs&t

And in the midst of this Most Wanted-style chicanery, Criterion Games' latest road-ripper absolute stuns with its beautiful visuals, impactful colors, unique marriage of typical CG visuals and traditional animation, and immersive lighting, shadow, and weather effects, all gunning at silky smooth frame rates. By choosing to gun for current-gen platforms only, Need for Speed Unbound is clearly aiming to wow its fanbase with its speed, polish, and bespoke visual style... Goddamn, this is a good-looking video game.

Need for Speed Unbound launches on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X on December 2.

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Pedal to the Metal

Following on from several months of leaks and rumors, Electronic Arts has finally lifted the curtain on the next entry in its long-running racing game series Need for Speed — As whispered by industry insiders, the new entry is titled Need for Speed Unbound, and will launch on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X on December 2.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2Y8XCe7F9E

As you can see from the stylish trailer above, soundtracked by the dulcet tones of A$AP Rocky, NFS Unbound will see a return to the competitive and combative street racing vibes of previous franchise entries such as the excellent Need for Speed Underground. NFS Unbound will follow the escapades of a die-hard, passionate gang of street racers, as they battle their way through the neon streets of the city, the ever-present wail of police sirens floating listlessly in the night skies.

As is to be expected, NFS Unbound will feature state-of-the-art visuals and game mechanics, and will also place a heavy emphasis on player customization, allowing the community to modify and decorate their ride so it will spin as many heads as it will wheels — in keeping with the new game flashy fashionista aesthetic. Developed by racing genre veterans Criterion Games, it is a fairly safe bet that NFS Unbound will deliver when it finally pulls out of the garage this winter.

Need for Speed Unbound launches on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X on December 2.

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DO NOT IGNORE

It's hardly the world's best-kept secret that Electronic Arts is working on a new title for its long-running racing franchise, Need for Speed, but the publisher is yet to officially reveal the road-ripper in question — That looks all set to change very soon, as EA is now teasing an unveiling for later this week.

https://twitter.com/NeedforSpeed/status/1576977802750234625?s=20&t=1dKOamnyYuNIT8s7j9dcqA

The official Need for Speed Twitter account has been updated with a spanking new "NFS" avatar and header image, which is amusingly splattered with the order "DO NOT IGNORE". Asked by a fan whether this meant the premiere of the new game was on deck, EA further teased with a shifty eyes emoticon. So let's take that as a yes. The new game is developed by Codemasters and is rumored to be titled Need for Speed Unbound.

This Twitter update arrives mere days after Giant Bomb writer and frequent spoiler Jeff Grubb, speaking on Giant Bomb's Giant Mess Mornings podcast, suggested that the NFS reveal was set to take place this week. Grubb has been proven to be pretty darn accurate in these matters, so it looks like NFS fans should start revving their engines, and keep their eyes peeled for a new trailer in the very foreseeable future.

We will, of course, bring you all of the wheel-spinning deets right here on Destructoid.

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Another month in the garage

Publisher Nacon has announced that WRC Generations has been hit with a last-minute delay, and will no longer meet its October 13 release date — the Kylotonn-developed racer will now launch November 3 on PlayStation, PC, and Xbox platforms. A Nintendo Switch port is still in development for later release.

Speaking on Twitter, Nacon notes that it has decided to bring the console release in line with the PC launch date in order to allow for some further polish time for the PlayStation and Xbox editions by the development team at Kylotonn. Console players can pre-order WRC Generations now to receive a bonus vehicle — the Peugeot 206 WRC model. While PC players cannot pre-order the game, this bonus DLC will be offered to everybody who purchases WRC Generations on PC within its first two weeks of release.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFJuV7ufIeY

WRC Generations promises to deliver the most content ever featured in a rally game. In addition to hosting over 750km of racetrack from no less than 22 countries, the new sequel will include 49 teams from the official WRC 2022 season, as well as 37 legendary cars and 165 timed special stages. WRC Generations will also feature hybrid cars for the very first time, bringing with them their own unique racing strategies — based on the battery management of the somewhat greener mud-rippers.

WRC Generations launches November 3 on PlayStation, PC, and Xbox platforms.

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2 Fast 2 Smurfious

Microids, in so many words, told us that they were on a mission to deliver a billion Smurfs video games, and they weren't just whistlin' dixie. Following on from the release of platform adventure The Smurfs: Mission Vileaf in 2021, the French publisher has now dropped a release date for the next title in its horrifying oeuvre, Smurfs Kart.

Headed to Nintendo Switch on November 15, Smurfs Kart will see the garden-dwelling dopes take to the racetrack in a variety of ramshackle vehicles, all seemingly made from the shit they just had lying around, (although Smurfette seems to have built herself a pretty snazzy roadster, at least when compared to most of the abominations on display).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljKTN1NuRyw&t

In regards to gameplay, you know how it works. Hit the turbo start, drift corners, find shortcuts, and take out your opponents with a variety of special weapons, including shells (Conker, not Koopa). Smurfs Kart features 12 tracks from the Smurfs universe, including Smurf Village, Smurf Forest, and Smurf Dam. Smurf.

Gargamel's house is also in the mix, so you can irritate his ass too. Seriously, just leave him alone. 12 selectable characters include Papa Smurf, Smurfette, and the ones nobody knows the names of. You can't be the French Goth one that I absolutely don't fancy no matter what you've heard.

Look, I'm being flippant, (with good cause, because it's 2022 and fucking Smurfs Kart exists) but, honestly, it looks perfectly... serviceable as a kart racer. Smurfs Kart looks to "tick all of the boxes", so to speak. It supports up to four players. It has a variety of challenges and alternate modes to enjoy. It's fine.

I just can't help but think why anybody — kids, or families, or racing game fans — would choose to pick this up over, say, Crash Team Racing, or Mario Kart Deluxe, or Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing, or any number of more prestigious, polished examples.

Roll on TinTin.

Smurfs Kart launches on Nintendo Switch November 15.

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Superhot and Injustice 2 on PS4 round out the PS Plus Essential lineup for October 2022

If you didn't pick up Hot Wheels Unleashed at launch (and recent sales didn't tempt you), then October should be a good month for PlayStation Plus. Milestone's well-liked arcade racing game joins the lineup for PS Plus Essential subscribers alongside NetherRealm's superhero fighter Injustice 2 and the minimalist action-shooter classic Superhot.

You can follow those links and claim the games starting on Tuesday, October 4.

Hot Wheels Unleashed has some cool locations, complete with nostalgic plastic orange tracks, and the cars look authentic, too. The main hangup is the way they're unlocked (through loads of DLC and loot boxes), and while those complaints still stand, getting access to the base game with your PlayStation Plus subscription eases the tension a bit.

I'm not sure where you're at with general superhero fatigue in 2022, and Injustice 2 feels like a short lifetime ago, but it's the kind of broad-appeal fighter that makes sense for the PS Plus audience. (There's a story mode.) Been there, done that? I feel you.

[caption id="attachment_346186" align="alignnone" width="1920"] _{Superhot is super replayable. You can always fight better.}
[/caption]

As for Superhot, it's a game about looking cool with a novel time-moves-when-you-do mechanic powering cinematic shootouts and other crazed action scenes. A classic FPS, though I'm sure plenty of you would've preferred getting the VR edition instead.

Obligatory reminder in case it slipped your mind: you have until October 3 to claim Need for Speed Heat, Granblue Fantasy: Versus, and Toem. If you're a completionist — or could be, under the right circumstances — then I'd also suggest snagging the free Keys to the Map for Need for Speed Heat while you're at it. It'll fill in the collectible locations.

According to Sony, the PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium game additions for October will be shared "later this month." More classics this time, please! Like, a lot more.

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The Cloud, too

A Trackmania console release is slated for "early 2023," according to an announcement made in an Ubisoft Forward stream today.

The window given right now is "early 2023," and PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Stadia, and Luna were specifically mentioned in the reveal (as were "cloud platforms"). Cross-play and cross-progression are confirmed ahead of time too, which is a nice surprise that doesn't require us to dig into a hidden FAQ to figure out if that's actually planned or not.

In case you forgot, Trackmania is the shortened title for the 2020 rendition of the series, which launched as a free-to-play game. As of today, a yearly "club level" subscription costs $29.99, which has still earned the ire of many prospective players. As Ubisoft puts it, you can: "Enhance your experience with Standard Access and unleash your creativity. Play solo or multiplayer on seasonal campaigns and keep track of your progression with medal collection, trophies, and regional and worldwide rankings."

The combination of only being available on PC and the subscription model has squarely put Trackmania 2020 in the "maybe" column since launch. At this point, quickly being able to boot it up on a console could sway me to give it another shot.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6f5fPTFdv1M&list=PLBnrd5k2F2INdjLweJqlvK0OCRIJPg_O2&index=17

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Project Canceled

Developer Slightly Mad Studios has announced that its 2015 prestige racing simulator Project CARS, along with its 2017 sequel, Project CARS 2, are to be delisted from sale on all formats this fall. Both titles will then be rendered unpurchasable, though owners will still be able to redownload and play the games as they wish.

Speaking in a brief statement on Twitter, Slightly Mad Studios pointed to the expiration of various in-game licenses as the reason for the games' removal from sale. Certain vehicles, tracks, and other trademarks in both Project CARS releases are clearly reaching their end-of-terms, with publisher Codemasters not looking to renew the licenses for further years.

https://twitter.com/projectcarsgame/status/1561730018966904832?s=20&t=Rm4FDNLqCjf4kPzzI5kaRA

"We will remove Project CARS from sale on October 3rd and Project CARS 2 on September 21st," wrote the studio. "We remain focused on making the best racing sim titles, and, as mentioned previously, we look forward to sharing more on the next Slightly Mad project when the time is right."

There is no mention of Project CARS 3 befalling the same fate, so no doubt the 2020 sequel is currently still well within its licensing rights, though it will no doubt be similarly delisted once its time is also up. In the meantime, Project CARS, Project CARS 2, and Project CARS 3 are all available now on PS4, PC, and Xbox One.

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The cars were weirdly static before this update

Nintendo is revisiting an absurd amount of classic tracks in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with the Booster Course Pass, and while most of the attention is fixated on the just-released second wave of DLC, there's one small but appreciated change that's worth noting. Now, in the final stretch of Coconut Mall, the Shy Guys don't just sit there in their cars.

The developers shared a short clip of the new Shy Guy antics.

https://twitter.com/NintendoAmerica/status/1555191948956368897

Granted, in the original Mario Kart Wii version of Coconut Mall, the obstacles were deadlier — the cars drove back and forth and were harder to avoid. That isn't the case here.

This Coconut Mall fix is more of a middle ground for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe players.

The Shy Guys are less static than before (excluding the Time Trial mode, as pictured above), but they aren't too annoying, either. Before, they felt lifeless in a kind of jarring way, and people definitely noticed that something felt off near the finish line. So it's good to see Nintendo go back and improve things, even if it's a small detail in the grand scheme.

After you're done playing the Turnip and Propellor Cups in Wave 2 of the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass, maybe circle back for a match on Coconut Mall. I'm excited to hop online tonight, especially for the all-new track, Sky-High Sundae.

At this point, kind of against all odds, I feel like I've gotten good mileage out of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass.

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There's a lot of stuff to get to!

It's almost impossible to narrow down a top five list of most iconic Mario Kart tracks — but this Mario Kart 8 Deluxe track list is doing a good job of showing us what's missing.

Crafted by Azer_FR over on reddit, the list breaks down multiple games, and lists tracks that have and have not appeared in Deluxe. There's even denotations for tracks that have been reused, or have never appeared again in any future game (and thus would be more ideal for preservation in Deluxe).

It's interesting seeing everything broken down game by game. It feels like there should be more Super Mario Kart/SNES tracks in Deluxe, but there's only three! Nintendo better pump those numbers up eventually. I always had a feeling that Mario Kart Tour was super represented, but seeing it on paper is something else.

Beyond that, everything seems to be pretty well spread out across the rest of the series. Maybe we could use some more Double Dash (especially since it has some unique tracks that haven't seen the light of day again)? But other than that, Nintendo has given each game a decent amount of representation.

As a note, the red exclamation mark (!) icon denotes tracks that were just recently confirmed to be part of "Wave 2" of the Booster Course [Season] Pass. We have four more waves to get to by the end of 2023, so there's plenty on the way.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe track list (including what hasn't made it in yet):

The post A Mario Kart 8 Deluxe community member made a handy list of every past Mario Kart track that is and isn’t in Deluxe yet appeared first on Destructoid.

Here's a full track list

The Mario Kart 8 Deluxe season pass wave 2 DLC finally has a date: Nintendo has just revealed that it will be out on August 4. You can find the full track list and trailer below! Nintendo has also updated their database site to include info on wave 2.

As a reminder, we covered wave 1 already, and there's more on the way. The pass will contain 48 courses overall, and there's six waves in total. Nintendo isn't giving us a date for wave 3 yet, but reiterates that "everything will be out by the end of 2023." You can access it via buying the Booster Course Pass on its own, or through an Expansion Pack membership.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBly7QHQkYA

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe season pass wave 2 DLC full track list:

• Turnip Cup
  • Tour New York Minute – Zip past towering skyscrapers and enjoy a scenic drive through the park in this Big Apple-inspired course originating from the mobile game Mario Kart Tour.
  • SNES Mario Circuit 3 – Drift your way around tight corners and avoid the Warp Pipes in this classic course that originated in Super Mario Kart on Super NES.
  • N64 Kalimari Desert – This desert race features frequent run-ins with an old-fashioned steam locomotive that crosses the course – be careful not to cause any delays!
  • DS Waluigi Pinball – Launch, bump and weave across this course themed after a giant pinball table, complete with colorful lights and sounds. Just try not to tilt!

• Propeller Cup
  • Tour Sydney Sprint – Soak up the sunshine as you soar above the bay and cruise around the sights in this course that originated in Mario Kart Tour.
  • GBA Snow Land – Try not to slip and slide on this wintry course from Mario Kart: Super Circuit. Just remember: Cooler heads will prevail.
  • Wii Mushroom Gorge – This course features an underground cavern, deep chasms and giant mushrooms to spring off of – make sure you land safely!
  • Sky-High Sundae – The competition may heat up, but that doesn’t mean you can’t chill out in this sweet race, which is filled with larger-than-life desserts at nearly every turn. Prove you’re number one under the sun(dae) in this debut course!

Here is what's left of the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass:

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The Neon Nitrous

During the recent Nacon Connect live stream, the publisher offered up another slick cinematic trailer for its upcoming racer Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown. But while the dramatic preview offered up some stylish visuals and dramatic pontificating, it failed to showcase any gameplay for the title, which is currently scheduled to launch on PC and next-gen platforms in 2023.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2RxYui-Jhc

Developed by veteran studio KT Racing, Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown certainly sounds like an incredibly meaty undertaking, with a host of highly realistic licensed vehicles burning rubber through what has been touted as a meticulous "1:1" recreation of the entirety of Hong Kong Island. An emphasis on customization will allow players to not only fine-tune their cars' appearances to perfection but also customize the appearance of the driver themselves — a feature that takes center stage in the new Solar Crown trailer.

First announced in the summer of 2020, Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown was originally expected to hit the streets this September, but became one of a litany of cross-gen releases pushed back to 2023. It was also confirmed that the PS4 and Xbox One editions of the title had been canceled. Now over two years into its development, with a release scheduled for sometime in the coming 18 months, fans are becoming a tad antsy at the persistent rolling out of cinematic trailers, and are starting to wonder when they will finally get to see the ambitious-sounding racer in action.

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown is in development for PS5, PC, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch.

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I thought 2019 was horrible. Little did I know...

Remember in 2019, before the pandemic, when we cruised around in rocket cars? No. Well, Out Run 2019 is here to remind you of those good times.

In all seriousness, I love Out Run. It was a great arcade title with a terrific sense of speed and a relaxing atmosphere. In the Sega Ages release, you can even turn off traffic, which brings about an even better sense of stress relief. After all, Out Run was more about driving than it was about racing. Get behind the wheel of your Ferrari and hit the open road.

There were many spin-offs to Out Run. Some of them were pretty strange, such as Out Run Europa. Out Run 2019 is one game on Sega Genesis that took the concept to a strange new place: the unimaginably distant future! It’s also probably my favorite of the spin-offs, even if the Ferrari looks like it’s something more out of a dystopian cyberpunk pulp novel than a car porn magazine.

I can never decide if it's one word or two

Out Run was the seminal raster racer, a type of 2D racing game that used the power of math to make the roads look 3D. I don’t know how it works. I once read an article on the graphical trickery and it lost me when it started talking about trigonometry.

Trigonometry. That’s not math, it’s how you argue with a calculator.

I still love raster racers, though. Even modern ones like Buck Up and Drive and Splitstream. They don’t have to use the actual graphical style, just as long as they have those gentle curves and rolling hills.

I’m making no exaggeration that Out Run 2019 is the most impressive use of the effect that I’ve seen. Note that I probably haven’t seen every raster racer, but I’ll tell you: Top Gear was cool for having tracks that actually looped back in on themselves. Out Run 2019 has bridges. Bridges. I’m not sure how else to get how cool bridges are in a raster game outside of just repeating the word. Bridges.

BRIDGES!

That’s right. Bridges. You’re driving along, and suddenly the road lifts up and you’re elevated. You can even fall off the edge and tumble to the terrain below. It gets better, though! Sometimes the road splits, and you can either go up onto the bridge or under the bridge. Like, you can see it winding above you and intersecting the road. It’s magic is what it is.

Bridges aside, the gameplay is predictably similar to Out Run. You’re not really in a race, except against the clock. Your goal isn’t to rank, but rather to reach the end of every segment of course before time runs out. The biggest difference that separated Out Run 2019 from its timeless predecessor is that there are five courses to choose from, rather than just the singular branching one.

The courses are of different lengths and have their own configuration of branches, but none of the size of Out Run’s super-course. I’m not even certain why they did it this way, it kind of makes the game easier because you have a shorter sprint to reach the end. Each route is unique, but none of the tracks really have a cohesive theme, so I’m not certain why they weren’t just crammed into a single stage.

Highway to the danger zone

It’s unfortunate that there’s only one car in Out Run 2019, but it does have a manual and automatic transmission. There’s a red car on the cover which reminds me more of the original game’s Ferrari, but instead, you’re stuck with an ugly grey one. Everyone drives grey cars in the year 2019, it hides future dirt.

One addition is the ability to boost once you’ve maintained top speed for a short period. Turning is practically impossible while boosting, but Out Run 2019 smartly hands you straightaways so you can stretch your wings and melt your tires. At that point, it’s a matter of not bumping into other cars on the road, which is much more manageable.

The music is pretty excellent, as well. I don’t think any of it is going to get permanently affixed to my ears like Splash Wave did, but they’re groovy little tunes in their own right. They’re each attributed to different artists in the credits, but I don’t know how true that is. The credits are set up to look like they’re from a movie with listings like “location supervisor” and “director of photography.” Most likely, they were all done by Shigeki Sako, but I’m not familiar with any other works by them.

A fun hour

Out Run 2019 might not be the most landmark game out there. In preparation for this article, I wrapped up medium difficulty in under an hour. It was a fun less-than-hour, and definitely not the first time I’ve played through the game. I’m also a veteran of raster racers. What I’m saying is: it might be best as a weekend rental. Hah! Ugh. I miss renting games.

Still, it’s probably a better use of your time than Out Run Europa or Outrunners. I wish we’d get a re-release of it. There have been about a million Sega collections throughout the years, and not one of them has it? Why? I’d rather play it than Altered Beast. Does Altered Beast have bridges? No. I rest my case.

For other retro titles you may have missed, click right here!

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Gotta pump the brakes

Publisher Nacon delivered a lot of good news during yesterday's Nacon Connect presentation — including the reveal of a GreedFall sequel and a new WRC title — but this was slightly offset by the bum news that the next entry in the Test Drive Unlimited series, Solar Crown, would no longer be meeting its originally planned 2022 release date.

"With so much support from fans of the series, we know many of you will be disappointed, but our goal with Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown is to make it the most polished gaming experience in the franchise by spending more time on its development," writes Nacon in a statement on Steam. "We therefore want to thank the fan community for your support and daily involvement on the game's official Discord channel and within communities on the various social media platforms.

The attractive road racer, which was originally scheduled to launch this fall, will now arrive at some point in 2023. In addition, Nacon announced that the PS4 and Xbox One editions of the sequel have been canceled, with Solar Crown now solely in development for PS5, PC, Xbox Series X, and, perhaps surprisingly, Nintendo Switch. Perhaps the most ambitious TDU title to date, Solar Crown hopes to fully replicate a digital version of Hong Kong Island as the backdrop for its polished, high-speed racing action.

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown is currently in development for PS5, PC, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch. A closed beta is expected to launch later in 2022.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yh-B5l8xB6s

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HEH-HEH-HEEEEEH WIPEOUT!

Fans of anti-gravity racing games finally have a date to ring on their calendars — publisher Saber Interactive and developer 34BigThings announced that the hotly anticipated racer, Redout II, will finally get the green flag on May 26, when the hi-speed, hi-tech sequel hits PC and console platforms.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MElaBg29PuQ

Redout II, defined by the developer as "the future of racing," will see players duke it across an amazing 36 futuristic raceways — all reversible for a grand total of 72 anti-gravity tracks. Up to 12 players, (on PlayStation, PC, and Xbox), will drift their way through intense racing action, reaching eye-searing speeds of over 1,000 km/h. 12 fully customizable vessel chassis are on offer, allowing for players to fine-tune their chosen vehicle to aesthetic perfection.

In addition to A.I. racing and online multiplayer modes, players can look forward to special events, seasonal content, time attack challenges, Boss Races, and even Redout II's unique take on the battle royale "Last Person Standing" genre. There's also an in-depth photo mode, so you can capture your fine machine from all angles as it rips through its moments of speedway glory. Oh, and listen out for a suitably electronic soundtrack, featuring artists such as Giorgio Moroder and Dance with the Dead.

Redout II launches May 26 on PlayStation, PC (via Steam), Xbox, and Nintendo Switch platforms.

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Bird is the Word, etc

Like that time Teen Wolf and Battlestar Galactica slapped Chris Rock at the Oscars during the Iraq War, developer Electric Square has revealed Warped Kart Racers, a new kart racing title headed to the Apple Arcade platform on May 20, which is like May the 4th, which is like "May the Force" from Star Wars.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NaO1cQvfZ6o

Warped Kart Racers will bring together characters from a selection of FOX TV shows, including Family Guy, American Dad, King of the Hill, and Solar Opposites. It's a crazy crossover, that's for true, like when The A-Team caught COVID on an episode of My Two Dads.

There will be a total of 20 characters to choose from, racing through 16 unique tracks themed after their respective TV series. Will you be first over the line, like George W. Bush was during the 2004 U.S. elections? Or will you come last?... Giggity.

Warped Kart Racers offers up Mario Kart-style roadway shenanigans, including customizable karts and gliders, drift boosting, unlockable decorations, and a variety of weapons and special attacks, and a variety of weapons and special attacks, and a variety of weapons and special attacks, and a variety of weapons and special attacks, and a variety of weapons and special attacks, and a variety of weapons and special attacks, and a variety of weapons and special attacks, and a variety of weapons and special attacks, and a variety of weapons and special attacks, and a variety of weapons and special attacks, and a variety of weapons and special attacks, and a variety of weapons and special attacks.

Warped Kart Racers launches May 20 on Apple Arcade. Like the apple in The Garden of Eden that gave Eve herpes after she was tempted by a snake with the voice of Kanye West.

The Flintstones.

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Pole Pos-i-tion-onnn!

EA has announced a release date for the next entry into its best-selling Formula 1 racing series, F1 22. The 2022 edition will drop the green flag on PlayStation, PC, and Xbox platforms July 1.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5RLRoRWUds

EA Sports F1 22, the official game of the 2022 FIA Formula One World Championship season, will feature the brand's trademark attention-to-detail, highly polished visuals, and tarmac-tearing gameplay, powered by the official teams, drivers, and vehicles of the F1 2022 season. Players can utilize a revamped "My Team" mode to build their F1 career from the ground up — managing finances, customizing cars, hosting events, and building your brand. Hell, maybe you'll even have time to squeeze in a race or two.

F1 22 will boast realistic visuals, sound, and racing mechanics, complete with interactive pit stops, cinematic Formation Laps and Safety Car Periods, smart weather effects, custom season lengths, and two-player split-screen racing action. In addition, the PC edition of F1 22 will be fully supportive of VR technology, putting players directly in the driver's seat for a fully immersive racing experience. Build your team, hone your name, race iconic, real-world courses, take the chequered flag, and earn a fortune into the bargain... Just don't drive your F1 car through Chicago, like Stallone in Driven.

EA's F1 22 launches July 1 on PlayStation, PC (via Steam, Origin, and EGS), and Xbox. Pre-orders are now live on all platforms.

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Fine-tuning

Polyphony Digital has released a brand new update for its classy driving simulator Gran Turismo 7. Available to download now on both PS4 and PS5, Version 1.11 brings with it a huge medley of small tweaks, fixes, and balance checks to the title's massive roster of well-worn tracks and dazzling vehicles.

Perhaps the most notable element of the new update is an increase in earned Rewards across the board. As listed in the official patch notes, smart drivers should now rack up in-game prizes more regularly in GT7's World Circuit, Circuit Experience, and Lobby/Sports modes. In addition, new objectives have been added to Mission Mode, the in-game credit cap has been raised, and a variety of tweaks have been made to the physics engine and player controls — hoping to provide a tighter driving experience.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FCabpb5HRv0

In regards to Gran Turismo 7's all-important audio/visual package, Version 1.11 has further polished its smoke effects, and removed a bug that caused debris to appear inside vehicles. For those of you with a fancy-dancy audio setup, Surround 7.1 has been better implemented to offer a more immersive experience, with new audio balance sliders added to the in-game audio menu. Now it's like you're actually in a car crash!

In regards to all of the minor tweaks to U.I., race tracks, individual vehicles, and The Livery, (not to mention a litany of bug stomps), there are simply too many to list here, so be sure to pull into the official patch notes for full details on what the new update is bringing to the GT7 party.

Gran Turismo 7 is available to purchase now on PlayStation platforms.

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On top of that, some of the bugs since launch have impacted the entire monetization system

A new Chocobo GP patch is out, and it fixes some bugs, including one that deals with the entire system that feeds into microtransactions.

It's a shame that when explaining this game, I can't just pitch it to some people as "a cute Final Fantasy homage and pseudo-sequel to a classic kart racer." Instead, I have to verbally walk people through a minefield of season pass and microtransaction hazards, in one of the most tacked-on monetization systems in recent memory. The stark contrast to the free Mario Kart 8 Deluxe DLC that came out shortly after is staggering.

So while the recent patch does fix some bugs, it doesn't address a lot of the underlying issues that are hampering the growth of the community. At this point, the team is kind of locked in. They already collected a ton of cash from people for the microtransaction system since day one, and giving everyone Squall and Cloud (who are linked to the aforementioned season pass/microtransaction system) would be murky waters.

I do wonder how many seasons this will last though, beyond what they already have cooking.

Chocobo GP patch notes (Ver.1.0.4)

The details of the update are as follows:

1. Fixed an issue where the game stops progressing at the rankings screen at the end of a race and while matchmaking for the next race.
2. Fixed an issue where the race start timing is not in sync.
3. Fixed improper character behavior caused by lag.
※ Examples:
・ Number of laps becomes corrupted.
・ Character clears the goal unexpectedly.
・ Magicites cannot be used.
・ Magicites that have not been obtained are automatically used.
・ Two of the same player exists in the same race.
4. Fixed an issue where finishing in fourth place or higher is treated as being eliminated due to lag
5. Fixed an issue where the long course of “Gold Saucer” sometimes enters the fourth lap.

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