What is it that makes a good rally racing game succeed? Well, mostly it’s about the gameplay. After all, if it doesn’t feel remarkable driving your car in the dirt, what’s the point? Codemasters’ DiRT carried the champion mantle for a while there, though we dare not forget the glory of Sega Rally. (Where did that series go?) Now we have another contender with NET2KGames’ Rally Arcade Classics, coming onto the scene at a pretty convenient price.
The game features a wide selection of vehicles across different decades, as well as tracks divided up by license class. You work your way up, mastering your cornering and drifting skills while trying to achieve the best times. It never hurts to become better when seconds count, especially where the leaderboards are concerned.
Considering this is a smaller budgeted racing game, Rally Arcade Classics does have a pretty general presentation. The game does look nice, but doesn’t exactly shine in detail like DiRT 5 did. Still, it accomplishes its goals, particularly with its wide assortment of tracks and cars. I just wish more was done with the music.
Still, the game delivers on its core front – the controls. It just feels like a natural rally racing game, leaning just about right in that balance between simulation and arcade. Fans of both types of games will dig into this one, and without paying a hefty price tag. Rally Arcade Classics may lack the sheen of newer rides, but it’s more than reliable when it comes to bringing the racing thrills.
Rally Arcade Classics Takes It Back To the Old School
Instead of relying on a bustling new engine like some of today’s more custom built racers, Rally Arcade Classics goes for a “classic” look. There’s no doubt that the developers were inspired by the likes of Sega Rally and even the older Colin McRae games with this one.
The game looks solid for the most part. Track design is impeccable and true to form when it comes to rally tracks, right down to the swift hairpin turns. I also like the car detail, particularly on the older models (though the new cars obviously have their moment in the sun). That said, the game has a slightly “dirty” appearance to it, like it’s just missing that extra bit of detail. But don’t worry, it still performs like it’s got something under the hood.
Where the game comes up short with its audio. The announcer is okay, but lacks the attitude we’ve been hearing from others in games like these. Maybe he’s just there to do his job and, well, that’s it. The music is also a little bit uninspired, with generic tracks that could’ve used a boost from indie rock bands. At least the engine noises are top caliber, so if you like those, you’re set.
Overall, the game’s “older” touch may turn off those wowed by the likes of Forza Horizon 5 and DiRT 5. But Rally Arcade Classics says it right there in the title – it’s going for “classic” appearance. And in that regard, the game has certainly succeeded. Plus the low price tag doesn’t hurt either, making this an easy one to slip into your virtual garage.
Rally Arcade Classics Is All About the Awesome Handling
Let’s get into the nitty gritty about where Rally Arcade Classics truly delivers – the gameplay.
Surprisingly, the developers make this game feel as naturally smooth as it can. It’s a perfect balance between sim and arcade racing, not leaning too much in either direction. As a result, it’s fairly easy to get into the game and master its turns without having to relearn any sort of complicated system. No matter which car you select, the balance feels just right. Kudos to the team for sticking with what works here.
What’s more, the game’s update adds manual transmission, which allows you to get better performance from your vehicle. Now, if you prefer automatic, by all means, stick with it. It’s just cool to have options.
The game’s career mode will keep you plenty busy, with a bustling amount of licenses and races to get through. That means progressively building up your skill and taking on better opponents. This is a gradual but absolutely fun build, one that will ultimately make you far more skilled at the game. And what’s more, it’s never to the point of being impossible. You will have to put in the effort, but it never feels like a grind.
The new Precision and Chase update also adds the option to “chase” after the best players in leaderboards. I would’ve preferred online play myself, but perhaps that was out of the developer’s budget for now. No worries, as it still feels awesome pursuing the best times within the game, with very little complication as a result.
In the end, Rally Arcade Classics brings a heaping amount of content, then backs it up with properly enhanced gameplay. No complaints about how the game handles – unless you’re a lousy driver. But that’s on you.
Take a Very Long Easy Right With This One, Baby
Although nothing will truly dethrone the champs of the genre (Sega Rally and DiRT 5), Rally Arcade Classicsholds its own. Was there more that could’ve been done with the UI and presentation? Absolutely. But it’s still pretty good, and comes with the kind of gameplay that will leave you hooked. Plus there’s a ton of stuff to do, even though some of it can be slightly repetitive.
For a decent asking price, you get quite a bit of bang for the buck with Rally Arcade Classics. Sometimes keeping game development simple and focused pays off, just as it did here. Sequel please (with multiplayer!).
GAMERHUB RATING: 4 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to NET2KGAMES for providing us with review codes for the game! You can check out Rally Arcade Classics now for Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch and PC/Steam!
Need more racing goodness? Check out our review of GRiD Legends!
