Feb 2022
Welcome to the age of racing games where you don’t just speed, you sprint while dodging narrative potholes! Codemasters brings us the latest in the GRID series with *Grid Legends*, which hearkens back to the glory days of racing, where skidding out of control while becoming emotionally invested in a driver named 'Driver 22' is all the rage. Strap in; it’s going to be a ride filled with intrigue, rubber tires, and a smattering of comedic mishaps.
*Grid Legends* features more than 130 tracks, which is great for those who can't decide whether they want their racing experience under fluorescent lights in a city or on a sunny day at a real-life circuit like Brands Hatch. But wait—there’s more! Players can race everything from touring cars to trucks that somehow still manage to look badass. And for the first time in a *GRID* game, players can create their own races with custom routes and conditions. It’s like Canva for racing lovers! Is it a race or a casual stroll through an obstacle course? You decide! The career mode, aptly named 'Driven to Glory,' is packed with dramatic flair, thanks to its story focus. Inspired by Netflix’s coveted *Formula 1: Drive to Survive*, it makes you feel as if your in-game actions could land you a spot on a real TV show. Or at least on some belated reality TV series. Forget just racing on tracks; now you can feast your eyes on *actual* cutscenes with actors portraying heart-racing dramatics. They even used the same tech as *The Mandalorian*! Could we be looking at a future cinematic universe where racing drivers are superheroes? Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.
The visuals in *Grid Legends* will impress you — and your next-door neighbor who thinks racing games are just ‘go-karting.’ The detail is astounding, and the environments feel alive, from bustling cities to roaring circuits. Each car gleams with that immaculate touch, making you wonder if you accidentally stepped into a car show instead of a racing game. And your heart won't just race from the speed; it will also flutter when you see the stunning car models glisten under the virtual sun. Just try not to look too hard at the shadows, unless you want to start questioning physics in video games — nobody wants that.
In summary, *Grid Legends* successfully expands the series while bringing in new gameplay mechanics and a heartwarming—if a bit cliché—story mode. If you've ever wanted to create your own racing experience or indulge in the life of a racing star, with all the highs and somewhat amusing lows, grab a controller and get ready for some bolting fun. It’s not a perfect racing title — far from it, as some AI moments might make you rethink your driving skills — but it certainly races ahead of its predecessor. Enjoy your laps, and may your virtual car never run out of gas!
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