Racing
fans will probably notice the similarities in this game with
Acclaims previous arcade racer, Burnout 2 but with motorcycles
rather than cars.
The game can be best described as a traditional arcade racer
which has really gone unnoticed, which, in a way is a shame
because it is actually quite a good game, the game isn’t
perfect by any means but it has been successful in the area
in which other games have failed, enjoyment, the game really
is a lot of fun to play.
Speed Kings basically requires you to ride at high speeds while
performing crazy stunts and participating in reckless behaviour.
The game offers various modes for players to race in, there
are three single-player modes include single races, meets,
and grand prix, which allows you to become the ultimate King,
racing in a string of races over eighteen different tracks,
which are unlocked as you progress through the game. The game
boasts twenty two motorcycles based on real road, and street
bikes. The game also allows players to engage in multiplayer
games including single race, tag, a trick challenge, a best-of-three
championship etc.
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The
gameplay is impressive, with some slightly unusual additions
for example tapping triangle will cause your rider to lie
the bike on its side at high speeds and slide under obstacle
e.g. gates or lorry’s. The games control setup is also
well done, the response and physics of the motorcycles also
feel very good.
A great aspect of the game is that it isn’t just racing,
the game offers jumps and obstacle such as traffic, which not
only must you navigate around you often have to slide under
and jump over, demanding quite quick gaming.
Similar to Burnout, the crazier you ride in Speed Kings, the
more boost you get which allows you to travel even faster.
The game also allows the player to perform a fairly limited
amount of tricks such as surfing, handstands, wheelies and
endoes. Challenges will also appear to gain respect like doing
a boost start, twenty ‘dings’ or popping a 1000
foot wheelie. Another thing you will notice when playing the
game is that the opposition always keeps up you ensuring the
races stay competitive.
Speed Kings is also a game that visually is very good, the
tracks surrounding environment isn’t the most impressive
but this can be overlooked as you spend most of your time whizzing
around the track at incredibly high speeds anyway.
The impression of speed is also portrayed very well, with a
blur effect used when you use the boost to give the impression
that you are going faster than you are supposed to. Its also
well worth mentioning the spectacular crashes, the game offers,
fans of Burnout who prefer bikes to cars will certainly enjoy
this game.Sound wise, the game doesn’t let down with
a good range of sound effects and music. Engine sounds, crashes
and tire
sequels all feature. The music in the game isn’t really
a focus point, allowing players to focus more on the tracks.
This is a game really worth checking out it’s a good
racer that does a good job in portraying an insane sense of
speed which requires quick reactions for navigating around
traffic and sliding under vehicles, Speed Kings in general
offers enough depth for fans of arcade racers and is worth
the investment.
7out
of 10
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