 |
| Title: |
Star Wars Episode 1 Racer |
| Publisher: |
Lucas Arts |
| Features: |
GameBoy Color. Link Cable Compatible. Battery Save. Rumble. |
| Format: |
Racing |
| Reviewer: |
Eóin |
|
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|
Introduction
After a long time of thumb twiddling, it's finally here! Yes, it's Star
Wars Episode 1 Racer for the Color GameBoy. Actually, I came across this title by accident. It happened while I
was out doing my weekly shopping when .... oh, ok, I won't babble, let' s get on with the review!
If you liked the movie and are a big Star Wars and GameBoy fan, then there's no real reason why you shouldn't fork
out the cash for this small screen adaptation.
Unlike some of the more expensive and dare I say it, overrated Episode 1 merchandise available, this little cart
is actually worth the money!
The story line doesn't follow the plot of the movie, but it does convey the thrill and excitement of Episode 1,
thanks to the in-game scenes that are from the movie itself.
In fact, when starting the game, you'll be surprised to note that the opening sequence is actually taken from the
movie with realistic GameBoy camera style graphics.
Gameplay, Graphics & Controls
Playing the game, however, you'll get the feeling that you're actually in a pod, and thanks to the rumble feature,
it'll seem as though you've got a real hulking turbine strapped onto your GameBoy. Indeed, the rumble mapping was
nicely done, adding a tactual dimension which gave the game a sense of wheel-gripping realism.
But what is a racer without speed and excellent frame-rates? A boring racer of course, but in this department,
Episode 1 Racer does not disappoint. The game is so darn fast, it's like having F-Zero X in your pocket. It's definitely
one of the fastest racers I've played, and ranks up there with the likes of V-Rally.
In the same vein, what is a racer without challenge and good controls? Once again, Episode 1 Racer delivers the
goods and in color too. The game is indeed challenging, if of course, you consider smashing against opponents at
break-neck speeds down hair-pin turns a challenge.
The controls too, are a bit of a challenge, and you will initially find yourself sliding all over the place. With
practice, however, you'll soon be careening down alleys like a true Jedi Master.
Game play is addictive, and more often than not, you'll find yourself racing again and again to break records and
beat the dog-ugly aliens.
Like many, I loved the pod racing scenes in the movie, and just as in the movie, Episode 1 Racer the game begins
on the infamous planet of Tatooine.
You play as Anakin and as you progress through the game you unlock the characters you've just raced and must work
your way through five planets with 5 races in each. There's also a real big secret in the game, but of course,
I'm not going to tell you what it is.
A great feature is that with a link-cable, you can link-up and race a friend on a track of your choice. Link-ups
are always an added bonus in any racing game, and I'm glad that Lucas Arts didn't scrounge on this aspect. Remember,
however, to master the fine art of 'pod turning' and 'opponent bashing' before challenging anyone to a race.
The graphics are good and detailed too, and if you take a peek inside the cartridge, you might be able to see all
the hard-hitting lumps and bumps that Episode 1 Racer has to offer.
The only thing that could have made it better was if there was the Star Wars music to listen to while racing. In
the game, all you'll get to hear is the roaring of engines, but who cares, you'll probably have the sound turned
off anyway. I know I did.
Final Comments
Lucas Arts put a lot of effort into this title, and it shows. This is one racer that's not to be missed, and the
best part is that you don't have to be a Star Wars fan to enjoy it. Unlike Yoda Stories, Episode 1 Racer is a challenging
but relatively easy game that seasoned racers and novices alike can pick up and play. The fact that it is a rumble
game is also an added bonus, and better still, it doesn't cost as much as a regular cartridge. So, what the Force
are you waiting for? Go get this game now! |
