The Hot Wheels games sell like hotcakes lately. So I figured it wouldn’t be long before other toy companies joined in the fun. And lo and behold, we have Matchbox Driving Adventures, based on the popular toy racing brand.
This one has two halves to it, with something for everyone. There’s a single player mission mode, where you partake in different types of tasks. Doing so unlocks even more tasks and, yep, plenty of customizable cars. Then you have competitive, with up to four players jumping in for racing excitement. (You can take on AI racers as well.)
What’s here is good fun, though it does seem a bit light on content for a $40 release. You’ll unlock most of the missions within hours, though nailing a gold medal on each one does take time. And as great as multiplayer is, it’s lacking weapons. Not even a bubble blower?!
If it’s an easygoing racer you’re after – or something to play with the kids – Matchbox Driving Adventures delivers. Just don’t expect a game that pushes you to the next level like the Hot Wheels titles did. It’s still fun, but its collection seems a bit light.
Stepping Into the Modes With Matchbox Driving Adventures
Where you start in Matchbox Driving Adventures depends on your forte in racing. But, honestly, there’s no “bad” place to begin.
I like competitive myself. Though the difficulty is on the easy side with AI bots, it’s good fun going up against others. You can discover what each of the various tracks provide, including shortcuts and more. As you discover them, you’ll find a key opportunity to take the lead – and possibly the win.
This mode is more fun in split-screen multiplayer, with up to four players. Alas, there’s no online multiplayer, but it’s not like this game was asking for a huge online community. It’s best with friends or, better yet, kids that just want to race. Better still, there’s a pretty good number of cars to unlock.
As for Adventure mode, it’s not bad at all. There are different missions available, ranging from patient deliveries to hospitals to stopping vehicles in chases. Again, they’re on the simple side, but getting a gold medal on each stage will take a bit.
The gameplay is good. Not amazing, by any means, but there are good features here. The handling of each vehicle feels about spot on. And drifting isn’t bad, though you’ll need a few laps to get used to it. (Though boosting is nice as it becomes available.) I just wish some creativity went into some kind of weapons. Sure, you’re racing Matchbox cars, but it feels like more could be done.
As it stands, Matchbox Driving Adventures isn’t leaps and bounds over its competition. But for those looking for a game to play with all ages – or a simplified racing experience – these are the toys of choice.
Does the Presentation Rev Up?
Sadly, Matchbox can’t, ahem, match up with superior competition. But its world does have something to offer here.
The large racing environments do offer excellent variety. One minute you’re in a neighborhood. And the next, you’re in the hustle and bustle of the big city. There are 14 different layouts here, and though not entirely innovative, they serve their purpose.
Meanwhile, the cars look great, and the smooth frame rate is welcome. However, that’s expected with the somewhat lighter development cycle. Still, again, not too shabby.
As for audio, it’s…okay? This is a game that would’ve served better with licensed tracks or more inspired rock tunes. Instead, it sounds like typical racing fare with horns and honks. It doesn’t really go above or beyond. Plus, there’s no distinction between cars in terms of personality. They’re just there and sound like each other. And I mentioned the $40 price tag, yeah? I think $20 would’ve made this a best-seller.
Again, it doesn’t feel like Matchbox Driving Adventures went, ahem, the extra mile. But its presentation does hold up well for the most part.
Hit the Road, Match
Is Matchbox Driving Adventures worth your hard-earned cash? Depends what you’re looking for. If you want an in-depth racer that will challenge you for hours on end with twists and turns, this, um, isn’t it. However, if it’s a breezy, hassle-free racing game to play with friends and family that you want, it’s not bad at all.
The two main modes will keep you busy for a bit, and there’s customizable cars to play with. I do wish there was more features and, more importantly, online play. But this does evoke the feeling of playing with your toy cars again. And, thankfully, not leaving them out for Grandpa to trip over. (Hey, I told him I was sorry, okay?)
GAMERHUB RATING: 3.5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to Outright Games for the review code! The game is available now for Nintendo Switch, Xbox,PlayStation and PC!
Need more racing game reviews? Check out our takes on Parking Garage Rally Circuit, DDI Rally Championship and New Star GP!
