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Review of Bomberman Fantasy Race on PlayStation

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Jan 1998
Cover image of Bomberman Fantasy Race on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 6.5
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 29 Jan 1998
Genre: Racing
Developer: GraphicResearch Inc.
Publisher: Hudson Soft, Atlus USA, Virgin Interactive

Introduction

In the delightful chaos of gaming spin-offs, where characters trade their traditional roles for new adventures, we find the oddly charming 'Bomberman Fantasy Race'. Picture this: your beloved Bomberman, known for blowing things up, now trading bombs for racing and adorable animal companions! This game could be likened to a bizarre animal race after a sugar rush on a Saturday morning cartoon. So get those engines revving or just the bombs stacking; let's dive deep into this colorful, explosive extravaganza.

Gameplay

In 'Bomberman Fantasy Race', you're not merely piloting some vehicle - no, my friends, you're riding custom beasties called Louies and Tirras. Can you feel that excitement? Players can select from six Bomberman avatars, each more absurdly adorable than the last, and choose their steeds with varying abilities. Want a sweet speed boost or a bomb-chucking titan? The choice is yours! The core premise is simple yet engaging: outrun four CPU-controlled racers, collect Bomberman coins, and unlock new items while avoiding the perils of bomb-related chaos. The races are not just about speed; they're akin to an obstacle course of mayhem with items that can daze opponents or boost your own speed. Think Mario Kart but with slightly more warheads and a little less koopa shell. Each race is a strategic dance - you can dash with limited stamina, jump on walls, and of course, throw bombs with glee. Did I mention egg-gathering? In the midst of the wild, you can find eggs that provide buffs or barriers, making races a delightful blend of strategy and hilarity. Finish first for a bonus course and the ultimate bragging rights amidst your friends; or just enjoy the stiff digital controls as you plummet into the bomb-filled pits. Aside from the frantic races, there's a whole banking system where you can collect, trade, and exchange coins. The racing strategy here resembles a mixture of Monopoly and glorious destruction, and let's not forget the Time Attack Mode that challenges you to lay down the best lap time - virtually yelling, 'I'm faster than you!' for all of eternity.

Graphics

When you step back to admire the graphics of 'Bomberman Fantasy Race', it's like stepping into a time capsule. This is 1998 PlayStation shiny, and while it may not be the graphical pinnacle of modern gaming, its charm lies in its colors and charismatic character designs. Each race course is vibrant with a whimsical flair, echoing the feel of Saturday morning cartoons. Yes, there's pixelation, but hey, that's part of its retro allure! The characters bounce and dash, broadcasting personalities through their animations, like a non-stop dance party fueled by sugar-coated pop!

Conclusion

To sum it all up, 'Bomberman Fantasy Race' offers a unique twist on the traditional racing genre while keeping its goofy charm intact. Though reviews have been mixed - with some fans praising its nostalgic value and others critiquing its stiff controls - it undoubtedly holds a special place for many. If you've ever wanted to race while riding atop colorful creatures and toss bombs at your friends, this game is a wild ride worth trying. Is it Mario Kart level? Not quite. But hey, who can resist the allure of racing with a green-tinted Bomberman while dodging bombs, throwing eggs, and trying not to get lost on a brightly-colored track? Grab a controller and prepare for delightful chaos!

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