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V8 Superstars Racing: The Next Challenge Review
Is rubbin' really racing?
Written by Andy Griffiths, 23 February 2010
There's something very fulfilling about playing a game which knows what it wants to be. No fuss, no stupid rewind option just fast cars and fully body contact, exactly what you want from any tin-top racer. It isn't near the simulation quality of any of Simbin's recent offerings, but many won't care when they are having this much fun.
The field has a diverse set of manufacturers.The driving model completely steals the show, providing a low barrier of entry for inexperienced racers whilst offering a significant challenge for veterans once the anti-lock brakes and traction control aids are switched off.
Competitors get much closer than this.When every asset is switched on the action is rather dull, but when you unleash the horsepower of your souped-up racer you'll be power sliding round corners and swapping paint with competitors. It's no wonder that former TOCA, F1 racer, and now V8 Superstars champ, Gianna Morbidelli had an input into the way cars interact with the track and his feedback has paid dividends.
Wet races are a lot tamer than they should be.Track selection echoes the official series so expect a European affair with twelve different locations including Monza, Imola and a South African track which will be a new drive for 95% of drivers out there. No matter how brilliant Brands Hatch and Silverstone actually are, it's refreshing to race on tracks we had never burnt rubber on before. Racing options include a full season, challenges, quick race and single race weekend options. Thankfully the sessions haven't been streamlined so expect full qualifying and practice opportunities which can be skipped if needs be.
All of the hud aspects can be turned off for a more immersive experience.Having nineteen cars on one race track means that the action is unpredictable, competitors will lock their brakes, spin out and defend aggressively when they need to. The A.I does an excellent job of recreating the hustle of tin-top racing.
Despite the various successes of this fun title, there are some issues which do betray its arcade roots. Car damage is mostly visual, if you slam into another car at a sharp corner your acceleration will only be mildly effected. The wet weather emulation is also disappointing, not offering the challenge that it should. They aren't giant mis-steps, just annoying niggles that grate over time.
Compared to the original this is a giant leap forward for Milestone, a perfect home for those looking to scratch that TOCA itch. It may not have a million different models but what this racer does, it does extremely well. Undoubtedly the most stable and entertaining touring car experience we've experienced for a long time. Turn off the ABS, revert to manual gearbox and you'll have hours of fun.
Final Verdict: 85%
My main complaint is the sound issue it has, as in even at sound set to 10 or less its annoyingly way to loud and the engine noise drowns out all the other sounds. Lets hope they patch this soon or I will not be playing it very much.
AusROM
20 March 2010 @ 2:31AM GMT