There are a lot of companies out there that like to innovate on their properties with new ideas. Sometimes they work, like Metroid Prime. And sometimes…you get Bubsy 3D. But there’s nothing wrong with staying the course, keeping to general ideas with a franchise – as long as you keep the aspects that made it work so well in the first place.
That’s what makes Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged work so well. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but keeps it spinning with exciting racing action. Milestone knows what made the original game such a hit, and keeps up the status quo with a few new additions to keep Turbocharged just as entertaining.
If arcade-style racing is your forte or you collect Hot Wheels of any kind, this is a must-add to your game library.
A Better Racing Structure
One frustration I faced with the original Unleashed were too many events that required perfection in order to progress. I’m happy to report that Turbocharged is much more forgiving, with different ways to go with events in terms of progress and all sorts of stuff to do within the career mode. You’ll still need to keep your foot on the pedal to make tremendous progress, but I like that the focus is more on fun than trying to be a master of Hot Wheels racing.
That said, later events still require a good deal of progress to get through; and I’m a bit disappointed the game didn’t have more unlockable vehicles. There’s a lot here, mind you, including a few Hot Wheels classics, but I can’t help but think the developers may be reserving the truly sweet rides as additional downloadable content. I hope I’m wrong.
At least the game plays wonderfully. Your vehicle handles pretty nicely, no matter what kind you’re driving; the drifting aesthetic is pretty cool (and definitely not in the Ridge Racer style of racing); and the track design will keep you on your toes, especially as far as obstacles go.
Of course, multiplayer is a blast and feels just about right, and you can go up against others locally as well. So there’s no shortage of hitting the road alongside others.
Overall, there’s a general uplifting here that feels good for the most part. There’s still challenge for those who want it, and multiplayer for those of you with friends. I just wish there were more cars for the long haul. Oh, well.
A Free Wheeling Delight
Along with gameplay, Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged also gets a nice, ahem, boost from the visuals. It almost looks like they’re a bit smoother this time around, with a solid frame rate and nice little details throughout each track – which, if I need to remind you, are based on somewhat real-world locales. It’s not often you get to race through a dinosaur museum – or an arcade!
The cars look fantastic as well, representing their real models and featuring some nice touches. And, as expected, there’s no driver behind the wheel. It’s you controlling the cars. As it should be.
As for the audio, the sound effects are solid, with good racing engine noises and other neat little effects. The music, however, is nothing to write home about. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but this is one of those times where it wouldn’t have hurt to license a few upbeat rock tracks to race along to. At least you can provide your own soundtrack on the side.
Well Worth Taking To the Starting Line
Even with the shortcomings with available cars and music, Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is a finely crafted sequel. It’s fun for all ages and skill types; it looks remarkable in terms of track design and vehicles; and it has a lot to do on your own and with friends. Really, that’s what racing games are all about. Sometimes you just gotta keep it simple, silly. (We wouldn’t dare call you stupid.)
GAMERHUB RATING: 4 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
(Thanks to Milestone for the review code!)
