Honestly, we don’t get it, Sony.
Nightmare Kart looked like a dream project for PS5, a PS1 kart racing game that was loosely themed around From Software’s brilliant Bloodborne. It would’ve easily been a fan favorite.
But no, you stepped in and told Lilith Walther (also known as PSX Bunlith) to change things and missed out on a golden opportunity.
That’s because Kart – which is currently available for free right now on Steam – is really something. Not only does it capture many great tropes of other kart-racing games, but it also creates some of its own, including some epic boss battles and a Victorian design that you just don’t see in games such as this.
As a result, it’s an absolute retro delight. It reminds us of the classic PlayStation gaming days of yore, while at the same time offering fast-paced racing fun with solid controls and a lot of content. Oh, and we mentioned it was free, yes?
The Stuff of Dreams (or Nightmares)
You’ll begin the game choosing from a number of unique, original characters (obviously replacing the Bloodborne types), and then selecting from a handful of tracks, all based around a beautiful Victorian setting. It’s not rocket science, just a way to get into the race.
But what surprised us about Nightmare Kart is just how well the game is put together. It handles beautifully, particularly with its more-than-fair drifting system, neat jumps (with the ability to stunt in mid-air, of course) and being able to run over creatures with a bloody effect – and a speed top-off. You can actually do tricks like this to fill up a boost bar, giving you a chance to score a first place victory.
The Campaign Mode is surprisingly loaded as well, including some boss battles that work out very well, along with other inventive mission types. There’s also a Twisted Metal-esque battle mode that doesn’t get old, though they do take a little while to set up.
The story isn’t the deepest, but for an original tale, it’s still very cool. Plus you’ve got plenty to unlock, which is exceptional considering, again, the game is a freebie.
Honestly, the tight gameplay and various unlockable goodies are enough to recommend this game. But the arena mode and the awesome boss fights add some sweet frosting to this bloody cake.
Harken Back To the PS1 Days — Yes, We Said Harken
Now, before Nightmare Kart, PSX Bunlith worked on a PS1 Bloodborne demake that was rather awesome in its own right. And it gave the savvy designer the ability to understand how to make a retro-looking game tick on the PC front. The end result is a nice surprise.
Even with the low polygon character and track designs, Nightmare Kart runs incredibly smooth, with a solid frame rate and some impressive blood effects. The vehicles and karts also look great, even if they’re lacking certain details here and there (this is PS1 territory, after all). Plus the boost effects are wild, ranging from smoke to fire effects. Oh, and we mentioned the weapons, yes?
Backing all this up is an energetic soundtrack that almost seems like something from Motor Toon Grand Prix, but with a goth-style touch. It comes across very well, and might just grow on you over time. The voicework is also very well done (for an indie game), and the sound effects – including the weapons – are top notch.
What’s more, this thing runs beautifully on Steam Deck without missing a beat. There’s controller support as well, if you feel like racing with a personal touch.
Welcome To Your Best Nightmare
The fact that it’s free makes Nightmare Kart worth owning. But the fact that it’s a remarkable racing game in its own right is insane. It plays great, looks like a charmer from the old days, and has quality sound that’s best unleashed on headphones. Not to mention the array of modes and content you can dig into. And did we mention the split-screen multiplayer? Yes please.
It’s not often you get a gem like this at such a significant value. That’s a dream come true, despite the nightmare setting. Now go get it.
GAMERHUB RATING: 4.5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Want to support the developer directly? You can do so at Ko-fi.com/lwmedia0554.
