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Review of Explosive Racing on PlayStation

by Jay Aborro Jay Aborro photo Jan 1997
Cover image of Explosive Racing on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 6.5
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 01 Jan 1997
Genre: Racing
Developer: Toka
Publisher: Toka

Introduction

In a world where realistic driving simulations were chugging along at a leisurely pace, and arcade racers were still figuring out how to make drifting feel less like ice skating with a bag of potatoes, came 'Explosive Racing'. This bad boy, developed by the French wizards over at Toka, promised high-octane, adrenaline pumping action packed full of explosions, and one-liners that could only be rivaled by a B-movie. Buckle up, because we’re diving into an experience that’s as explosive as the name suggests—and just as messy.

Gameplay

'Explosive Racing' nails the arcade racing vibe with a splash of insanity as you zoom down various tracks, each more bizarre than your uncle's conspiracy theories. Starting with the vehicle selection, you’ll encounter a range of cars that make the Fast and the Furious fleet look like mini-vans. Each vehicle handles differently, which is crucial when you’re dodging explosions, missiles, and the random school of fish that somehow ended up on the tarmac (no seriously, what’s with that?). The racing itself is solid, but don’t get your hopes too high on precision handling—it’s more about throwing your car into chaos than perfecting your racing line. The distinguishing feature that sets 'Explosive Racing' apart is, you guessed it, explosions. Various power-ups litter the racetrack, each designed to help you, or to send your competitors back to the starting line—in pieces. From speed boosts that make it seem like the laws of physics have decided to take a coffee break to destructive missiles that you can launch at your friends (sorry, I mean, fierce competitors), the chaos never ceases. The game truly excels when there’s a full pack on-track, as the multiplayer experience is where friendships are tested and maybe even lost. If you’re not shouting at the screen with your buddies from your couch, are you even racing?

Graphics

Let’s talk graphics. Remember the first days of 3D gaming? The time when graphics had the charm of a blocky toaster with wheels? 'Explosive Racing' fits right into that mold. It may not have the stunning realism that one might expect from a contemporary racer, but it has a certain charm with its vibrant colors and chaotic level design. Think of it as a comic book come to life—if the comic wasn’t afraid of blowing stuff up. Sure, the polygon count on the cars wouldn’t impress a modern audience, but back in the late '90s, it was flashy enough to keep your eyeballs glued to that CRT screen. You won’t be mistaking it for a Pixar film anytime soon, but it's not bad for a game that’s clearly more interested in explosions than rendering the Mona Lisa.

Conclusion

All things considered, 'Explosive Racing' is very much a product of its time. It’s not going to blow your mind or redefine the racing genre, but if you’re down for some chaotic fun and explosions that would make Michael Bay proud, then this title might just tickle your fancy. It's a carefree, somewhat chaotic racer that succeeds in offering unadulterated fun—especially when you can drag your friends into the chaos. While it’s not exactly a ‘must-play’ masterpiece, it’s a ride worth taking, particularly when you need a break from realistic racers or an excuse to yell at someone over a failed missile shot. So, hop in, hold on tight, and let the explosions commence. This ride is just wild enough to make your mom question your sanity—all in the name of fun.

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