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Review of Re-Volt on PlayStation

by Max Rathon Max Rathon photo Aug 1999
Cover image of Re-Volt on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 6.5
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 18 Aug 1999
Genre: Racing
Developer: Acclaim Studios London
Publisher: Acclaim Entertainment

Introduction

Welcome to the '90s, where bigger was better and dad jeans were a fashion statement. Bursting onto the racing scene was none other than Re-Volt, the game where you control tiny radio-controlled cars in places no one would've thought to race! Ever wanted to go head to head against your friends on the sweet soft carpet of your living room? Now you can, except with virtual explosions, cardboard boxes, and some chaotic fun. Let's dive into the technical sandbox of this classic gem and examine what makes it tick-like a perfectly timed PANDEMONIUM of mini-cars. Buckle up!

Gameplay

Re-Volt is not just a simple racing game; it's a colorful, chaotic canvas of tiny cars racing through bizarre environments like supermarkets, museums, and even construction sites. The gameplay is split into various modes, including the classic 'Single Race', a cutthroat 'Championship' where you earn points, and even a 'Time Trial' to prove you're faster than your friend who thinks they can beat you in real life (spoiler: they can't). Players can unlock new tracks and cars by completing tournaments, which adds a layer of depth to the experience. What's cooler? Weapon pickups! Yes, you read that right-pummeled by a sandwich in the snack aisle or sabotaged by a foam finger right before the finish line-you've got options to ruin others' days while laughing maniacally. Achieving victory here takes skill, luck, and the ability to master your steering. The controls are tight-until they occasionally feel like you're controlling a soap bar on a slip-n-slide, especially if you're on rainy carpets or chocolate-stained floorboards.

Graphics

Let's talk about the graphics, shall we? Re-Volt boasts vibrant and whimsical visuals that make the circuits feel like a candy-coated dream. The colorful environments and detailed car models bring the tiny car racing experience to life, backed by a soundtrack that can best be described as 'get out of my way, I'm a toy!' While the textures may look a bit fuzzy by today's standards, they fit the game's cheeky and playful tone. Plus, racing around makeshift tracks constructed from everyday household items is genuinely entertaining-who knew grocery store racing could be so action-packed?

Conclusion

In the grand scheme of racing games, Re-Volt stands out with its unique concept of taking the smallest cars and putting them in the biggest situations. While it may not have reached the fame of titles like Mario Kart or Gran Turismo, it serves a hefty dose of nostalgia for those who played it. Though the technical execution shows its age today-with snags in the graphics and sometimes unresponsive handling-there's still plenty of fun here for players willing to overlook some bumps on the road. If igniting childhood memories is your jam and you can cope with minor frustrations, rev up your engines and take Re-Volt for a spin. Just remember-don't take life (or racing) too seriously. It's all in the fun of being tiny, fast, and occasionally obnoxious!

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