Digimon Racing (GBA) (Digimon Racing (GBA))

Member Name: thole09

Product:	Digimon Racing (GBA)
Date:	05/05/09 (10 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Gameplay

Disadvantages: Graphics, Audio

"Digimon Racing" is a video game released for the Gameboy Advance console in 2004 by Bandai. It is a racing title featuring animated characters from the popular children's series "Digimon". In the United States, the game received a rating of "E" by the ESRB panel which deemed it suitable for all ages.

The story of this game states that evil forces are draining the world of its digital energy and to be stopped must be defeated in a series of go kart events. It is an odd premise certainly, but it does not appear to affect the events in-game. Players are able to select from popular Digimon monsters including Agumon, Palmon and Patamon, and have the option of a lengthy career mode, a single race mode and multiplayer head to head racing by use of an optional game link cable. Digimon Racing also makes use of wireless connectivity by use of the Advance Wireless Adapter; an optional addition to the console. In the quick race mode, the player initially has access to four tracks but through completion of the career mode will unlock a further 11. The game handles well for a racing title on a handheld console and is responsive in areas requiring quick turns. Jumping is also a dominant feature in this racing game as the player is required to maneuver successfully over numerous "bottomless pits" and other similar features. With the series appealing to younger children, there is little difficulty in this game and I was able to complete it with ease.

The graphics are presented from a trailing view which focuses on the player's character of choice. The detialing presented is clear but very basic. There is a strong element of pixelation throughout each race course, especially noticeable in the asphalt of the tracks, and this makes viewing somewhat unpleasant. I also found the two dimensional background scenes to be unappealing in terms not presenting any sort of "wow" factor. While each object looks like their intended purpose, for example a city skyline looks like a city skyline, though they are not particularly memorable. There are also few musical scores and sound effects for the game's soundtrack. To me, it's pleasant that the musical scores are presented at a higher volume than the typical racing sound effects but the scores are short and loop frequently.

Overall, I would be hesitant about recommending Digimon Racing to prospective buyers. It could perhaps see success with fans of the series but may not see much appeal outside of this market.

Summary: Thumbs in the middle