|
 
The MySims characters are making another game debut, this time kart
racing. Is it just another Mario Kart knockoff, or does this game
offer something new?
The Sims characters from the life-simulation computer game are back
in yet another of the growing kid-friendly line of video games. This
time, they've taken up the racing challenge in MySims Racing. Many
other games have tried to compete with the kart racing champion
game, Mario Kart, but the MySims Racing game slides a bit away from
convention with its story line and customization options.
The lighthearted story involves a town that has fallen into hard times
because their star racer has disappeared. The ailing town needs
a new racing champion to lift it back into glory. That champion is
the player's character, which is created and customized by the
player at the beginning of the game. The vehicles are also
customizable, with snazzy upgrades and quirky accessories.
The game has three modes of play, Story, Quick Race, and
Multiplayer. The story mode takes the player through tracks and
events that progress the player through the storyline. Quick Race
and Multiplayer give the player the option of jumping into any of
the 15 tracks in the game, racing against the system or against up
to four other players. The player uses the Wii remote like a
steering wheel, with the number 2 button as the accelerator and the
number 1 button as the brake and reverse. The vehicle can also jump over obstacles in the tracks by thrusting the Wii remote
upward.
The races themselves are not much of a challenge, but the tracks are
bright and fun, and the customization options are thoroughly
delightful. To be able to customize and upgrade the vehicle, the
player has to collect gems and complete events in the tracks. As
added interest, there are zany weapons scattered along the tracks to
slow the competition, some dangers like tornadoes to avoid, speed
boosters, and alternative routes to explore.
Rated E for everyone, My Sims Racing is a family-oriented game that
will engage younger gamers and those who enjoy family or racing
games.
One downside is that the vehicle putters along when it's not
in boost mode or careening down a mountain, even when fully
upgraded. Another issue that may disappoint players is that the
multiplayer mode only features races--no battles and no online play.
Hardcore gamers may find this game unappealing, as it is very simple
and familiar territory for racers. However, the story and customizability
will keep younger gamers entertained for hours. MySims Racing does
not revolutionize the racing genre, but it is lighthearted good fun
for the whole family.
Pros:
- Fun and entertaining for younger children.
- Nice customization features and good variety of racing
environments and tracks.
- Energetic, bright, and fun.
Cons:
- No battles or online play.
- Although great for younger children, this game may not be
appealing to hardcore gamers.
Our Rating:
A
more information:
For more information, user reviews, or to buy:
MySims Racing
Reviewed: June 2009
Comments? Email
us
|
