GameSpot editors' review
-
CNET editors' rating:
stars
Good
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 07/30/2007
- Released on: 07/02/2007
- Originally published on GameSpot: Hot Wheels Ultimate Racing (PSP) Review
It wouldn't be too far off the mark to describe Hot Wheels Ultimate Racing for the PlayStation Portable as a no-frills knockoff of Need For Speed Underground. The game lets you collect, decorate, upgrade, and race Hot Wheels toy cars on a number of outlandish courses. Generally speaking, the racing action is solid. However, there aren't a whole lot of different tracks or competitions, and the 3D graphics don't hold a candle to A-list racers like Ridge Racer or Wipeout.
Bet you didn't know Hot Wheels cars came equipped with nitrous tanks.
Races take place on intricately designed fantasy courses that feature multiple paths, jump ramps, and the occasional flaming hoop or piece of rampaging construction equipment. While driving, you can kick in a nitro boost or activate a slow-motion effect. You have to use the nitro and slow motion frequently in order to successfully clear most jumps. Every time you nail a landing or speed through an obstacle, such as rocks or land mines, your nitro and slow-mo stores will be replenished. While there's nothing here you haven't seen in other racing games, the sense of speed brought about by the nitrous and jump ramps is very satisfying.
Another aspect the game borrows from Need For Speed Underground is the ability to collect different cars and unlock new parts and paint schemes as you work your way through each competition. You'll need those upgrades, too, because the CPU drivers in Hot Wheels Ultimate Racing rarely smack into the rails or slow down. In fact, they're so tough to beat early on that you'll probably spend an hour or two just trying to win the first competition in the challenge mode. Thankfully, the difficulty becomes manageable once you unlock the first set of engine and nitrous upgrades.
Continue reading
Hot Wheels Ultimate Racing (PSP):
%20PSP%20Game%20reviews%20-%20CNET%20Reviews&srcUrl=http://reviews.cnet.com/psp-games/hot-wheels-ultimate-racing/4505-10078_7-32329317.html){kind=small}