Downforce (GBA) (Downforce (GBA))

Member Name: thole09

Product:	Downforce (GBA)
Date:	06/05/09 (17 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Graphics

Disadvantages: Generic gameplay

"Downforce" is a video game released for the Gameboy Advance console in 2002 by Titus Software. It is a racing game with formula one cars being represented. In the United States, the game received a rating of "E" by the ESRB panel which deemed it suitable for all ages.

The story is based on a fictional group of F-1 racing drivers who engage in common street racing in true urban settings including Las Vegas, Toronto and Geneva. It is the player's objective to compete in a tournament mode with aims of placing in the highest possible rank. The gameplay holds true to a typical racing title with each course featuring a wide variety of sharp turns, obstacles and fast paced action. I did not find the game to be particularly difficult but did find the game to be slightly commonplace in what is a more comical kart and weapons oriented marketplace. The game itself did not engage me as a player, and left me desiring a more popular release such as Mario Kart due to the lack of in-game features.

The graphics are presented from a trailing view of the player's vehicle and are excellent in their quality. Each vehicle features crisp pseudo 3D graphics with strong attention to the colouring of the exteriors. The courses are also very well detailed with frequent directional prompts "painted" on the road and alluring background scenes made up of a wide palette of colours. Animations are smooth and players are able to see finer details such as the front wheels changing direction during turns. The soundtrack is simple to most racing games and features typical vehicle sound effects. There are no musical scores during gameplay but one composition is heard throughout the menus and options configuration which is of an acceptable quality.

Overall, I would recommend Downforce to fans of the racing genre. It excellent visuals are offset by generic gameplay and this could restrict its appeal to a more genre specific audience.

Summary: Thumbs in the middle