Dec 2015
BlazeRush rolls onto the PS4 like an overly eager puppy, tail wagging and ready for some good old-fashioned vehicular chaos. Developed by those crafty Russians at Targem Games, this top-down racer pairs explosive action with a competitive spirit that makes you question your relationships, especially if your best friend just blasted you into a rubber tree. Sure, it’s not the most intricate game in terms of narrative depth, but strap in as we navigate this neon-soaked wild ride!
The gameplay in BlazeRush is a rollercoaster of speed, power-ups, and enough explosions to make Michael Bay blush. It allows up to four players to race against each other, which means you'll definitely want to assess your friendships before diving in, especially when nitro boosts are in play. The game features modes like Survival (where the last man standing survives, which answers the question of how many of your friends are actually good at driving), King of the Hill (because who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned territorial dispute), and a classic Race mode (because sometimes, plain old racing will suffice, even amid chaos). The game encourages players to pick up various weapons mid-race, which can lead to moments of sheer delight—and also heartbreak, considering the times you fire a missile only to have it ricochet and obliterate your own vehicle. Buzzwords like "nitro," "rockets," and "pulses" float around like confetti in a hurricane, ensuring that each race is filled with unpredictable drama. Just remember to wheel your way through the booster zones because, apparently, your car can benefit from a little 'up' too! The split-screen multiplayer is an absolute treasure, allowing you to hurl insults at your mates right from the couch rather than over social media. The local drop-in feature is great for those spontaneous game nights when you find yourself in an existential crisis and desperately need to reaffirm your dominance over your friends—or avenge yourself after one was particularly ruthless last round.
Graphically, BlazeRush presents a color palette that would give a kid with a crayon box a run for his money, thriving in its vibrant, stylized visuals. It’s not aiming for hyper-realistic graphics that resemble life-like driving simulations; instead, it embraces its arcade roots. The colorful environments are filled with eye-catching detail, providing a backdrop that’s equal parts enchanting and chaotic, much like your Aunt Mary’s annual Thanksgiving dinner. Considering its roots, the graphics do a commendable job of keeping your focus on the action while ensuring you’re not completely blinded by the splendor of the racing tracks. Additionally, animations are smooth and the explosion effects would get a thumbs-up from any pyromaniac.
In conclusion, while BlazeRush may not land the gold star in the narrative section (it kind of says, 'Hey, there are three planets to race on, and they evolve!' but who needs deep narrative when you’re racing with lasers?), it makes up for it with a robust local multiplayer experience and a healthy dose of slapstick vehicular mayhem. It’s a quintessential party game that gears up for fun, ensuring that every race is filled with laughter, a side of friendly rivalry, and a splash of chaos. Whether you’re looking to hone your racing skills or simply want to watch your friends explode in laughter (and their cars), BlazeRush serves up a great time for those willing to dive into its vibrant world. A solid 7.5 out of 10 for bringing joy, competition, and a little madness to the couch! Keep your friends close, and your car's nitro booster closer!
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