TNN Motor Sports Hardcore 4x4 (PlayStation)

GameSpot editors' review

• CNET editors' rating: 3.0 stars Good
  Detailed editors' rating
  Overall score: 6.3 (3.0 stars)

• Reviewed by:
  Jeff Kitts
• Reviewed on: 12/13/1996
• Updated on: 05/02/2000
• Released on: 11/30/1996
• Originally published on GameSpot: TNN Motor Sports Hardcore 4x4 (PlayStation) Review

Recent Playstation "racing" games haven't focused on racing, but rather on weapons (Impact Racing), futuristic spacecraft (WipeOut XL), and cartoon opponents (Street Racer). TNN Motor Sports Hardcore 4X4, however, is truly a racing game. For that reason, and that reason alone, Hardcore 4X4 is a refreshing addition to the Playstation racing game library. However, the same solid racing focus that makes Hardcore 4X4 stimulating is also the game's biggest downfall: There are no surprises, no changes in gameplay, and nothing to work towards.

Once past the cumbersome options screen interface, you can select one of six different trucks (each varying in speed, tension, and suspension), and race on one of six different courses (with terrain ranging from dirt, mud, sand, grass, and rock, to ice and snow). Weather conditions, including sunny, overcast (fog, sandstorm), and severe (rain, snow), greatly affect your visibility in both day and night racing. Race types include single race, championship (race on all six courses, vying for points and ranking), and time trial. The performance of your ride is not customizable, except for alterations to the steering response level.

The game handles well enough - the action is fast and the control responsive. Graphically, the tracks have a realistic look and feel, with endless bumps, hills, curves, and jumps. One of Hardcore 4X4's primary selling points is that it's the first racing game to have vehicles with independent suspension. And while it's unique to have all four wheels respond differently to the terrain, it really doesn't make the game any more exciting (more realistic, perhaps, but not more exciting). Still, the vehicle physics are impressive, with the trucks handling each surface differently, going slower up hills, faster down hills, and so on. Take a turn too quickly and your truck will flip and roll. If nothing else, the game feels right.

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