TL;DR
Tired of overly realistic racing sims? Trackmania Turbo is your refreshing arcade escape! Dive into wild tracks packed with loops, massive jumps, and gravity-defying stunts, all demanding precise control and split-second timing. It's easy to learn but incredibly challenging to master, bringing back that classic arcade feel. Enjoy stunning visuals at a smooth 60fps, responsive controls, and a unique J-pop inspired soundtrack. Plus, with online challenges and a track editor, the fun never stops. Ready to chase those perfect lap times? Read on for the full review!
Ubisoft delivers a compelling arcade racing experience with Trackmania Turbo.
The trend in racing games since the 1990s has largely focused on realism. Gran Turismo on the original Playstation became a benchmark, influencing a wave of increasingly realistic and complex racing simulations. While the ability for dedicated enthusiasts to fine-tune vehicle settings and optimize performance is appreciated, this level of complexity can be daunting for many players. The appeal of gaming often lies in the balance of fun, entertainment, and challenge – the difficulty should stem from mastering the gameplay, not deciphering intricate systems.
Trackmania Turbo offers a refreshing alternative. Its tracks feature a diverse array of elements, including loops, ramps inspired by skateboarding, off-road sections, gravity-defying jumps, and intense G-forces. Players are tasked with skillfully navigating these environments, striving to shave off crucial fractions of a second from their lap times. Success requires a blend of precise control and daring maneuvers, executing wide drifts through hairpin turns and launching off jumps that demand expert timing. While easy to pick up, achieving top rankings on each track presents a significant challenge, reminiscent of the demanding yet rewarding gameplay of classic arcade titles.
The visuals are impressive, with vibrant colors and detailed environments rendered at a consistently smooth 60 frames per second on the PS4. The game realizes the visual fidelity and responsiveness that many players anticipated from arcade racing experiences. The soundtrack leans towards J-pop influences, incorporating elements of house and dubstep. While the music library offers some customization, it may not be suitable for all tastes. Crucially, the controls are responsive and intuitive, allowing players to quickly develop a feel for the vehicle dynamics and maintain precise control even at high speeds. The game also supports PS4 Remote Play, though the inherent latency can present a challenge on more demanding tracks, where even slight input lag can be detrimental.
For players seeking additional content, the game features online challenges and a track editor, allowing for the creation and sharing of custom tracks.
In conclusion, Trackmania Turbo offers a compelling and highly addictive arcade racing experience. It demands precision and focus, delivering a satisfying sense of accomplishment. While some multi-lap tracks can feel lengthy, particularly when mistakes necessitate restarting from the beginning, the overall package represents excellent value and provides hours of exhilarating gameplay.
