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Review of Road Rash 3D on PlayStation

by Chucky Chucky photo Jun 1998
Cover image of Road Rash 3D on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 6.5
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 10 Jun 1998
Genre: Racing
Developer: Electronic Arts
Publisher: Electronic Arts

Introduction

Welcome to the chaotic world of Road Rash 3D, a game where you can try to defy the laws of physics, while also defying the local traffic laws. You know, the ones that say 'Don't hit other people with your motorcycle'? Yeah, throw those out the window. Put on your helmet (seriously, you might need it) and let's dive into the world of motorcycle racing meets street brawl.

Gameplay

In Road Rash 3D, you take control of, well, a badass biker-a typical career choice for those who enjoy leather jackets and questionable life choices. You're not just racing; you're also using your fists as weapons because apparently, negotiations don't happen at high speeds. The game opts for a more arcade feel rather than trying to replicate actual motorcycle physics-who needs that, right? Courses are compiled from a complex system of interconnecting roads where you're likely to end up hitting invisible walls and wishing you had opted for a bicycle. The goal? Finish ahead of everyone while collecting money to upgrade your sweet ride. Push the 'punch your competitor' button like it's a doorbell you really don't want to answer. Just be aware that finishing last or getting pulled over by the cops will have your wallet feeling lighter than your bike, which is oddly fitting, isn't it? The combat feels like a half-hearted attempt at throwing in some brawling aspects. Sometimes it works like a charm, and sometimes it's like trying to juggle flaming swords blindfolded-if you're lucky, you get away with it. While Road Rash has always been known for its combat, this installment seems like a kid that's been told to play nice, taking a backseat to the racing. Not that racing wasn't important-it's just that using a pipe wrench to knock your rival off their hog loses its appeal after the third time it backfires.

Graphics

Let's chat graphics. Back in 1998, 3D was the new black. For all its efforts, Road Rash 3D isn't winning any beauty contests. The landscapes are varied; sometimes lush, sometimes as flat as a pancake-ideal for the occasional pancake race, but not exactly winning awards at the 'Most Realistic Environment' show. It's charming but in that awkward, 'I tried my best' way. Just when your bike is cruising at breakneck speeds, the graphic glitches decide your fate, sending you plowing into a tree or, hilariously, a police car. Don't worry about them-just throw a punch and carry on. The character models are what you'd expect from a bloated PlayStation game; you've got bikers with heads and bodies that look like melted clay. Still, there's a certain nostalgic charm to it-if by charm, you mean you chuckle at their absolutely cartoonish makeup. The 3D engine does have some impressive tech, but let's just say that it's not quite Pixar magic.

Conclusion

To sum it all up, Road Rash 3D is what you'd call 'situationally entertaining.' It's not revolutionary, and it's definitely not the best installment in the Road Rash series, but it'll scratch that itch for chaos on wheels. Sure, your precision fighting may resemble a drunken giraffe trying to do the tango, and your bike may refuse to turn at crucial moments, but that's all part of the thrill, right? Just try not to take it too seriously, or you might find yourself questioning if slamming fists on a motorcycle is really all that safe. Would I recommend it? Sure, if you want to relive the nostalgia of late 90s gaming and you think fighting other bikers on a heavily pixelated road sounds like a good time, then by all means, hop on. But just remember, in this world, the real competition is keeping your bike upright while chucking elbows at people and avoiding slamming through invisible walls. Enjoy the ride, and remember-always wear your helmet. Seriously, it might not save your ego when you crash into a tree, but it will save your noggin.

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