Again, not particularly original as a concept, but the twist here is it's more about hitting an escalating top speed than your position in the race.It’s hard to overestimate the effect Sega had on arcade racing.

It knows exactly what you're looking for from this type of release, and ticks those boxes with a confidence seldom seen in this specific genre.Įven traditional game modes like Grand Prix, Time Trial, and Cops and Robbers feel thoughtfully implemented, but it's the Drive or Explode mode that really sticks out.

Meanwhile, even in Beta form, Hotshot Racing gets it right from the off. Not to drag on Need for Speed too much, but Heat and Payback both stipulate that you slog through the opening chapters of their respective campaigns before the privilege of multiplayer is unlocked. The sheer wealth of options across the entire experience, from local offline play, to private matches with A.I, and a party system which can take you into online public matches with a friend, is frankly best in class. Even playing split screen, performance is retained.Įach character has access to unique cars that fit into a particular class of vehicle, with the option to customise and tweak their looks depending on your preferences. The level of polish is seriously impressive, and one of the standout things that really grabbed our attention. It's a breath of fresh air for an arcade racer, to eliminate any semblance of pretence and thrust you headfirst into often thrilling, skill based competition.ĭrifting feels absolutely wonderful, sitting somewhere between Ridge Racer and Burnout 2, and evokes all the best parts of that nostalgia without being behold to the past.ĭon't be deceived by the simplified graphical palette either there's plenty of neat animated moments on every track that makes each race feel bespoke. Hotshot Racing places responsive controls and frame rate stability above all other considerations, to great effect.

Although the devil is quite often in the details, there's very much something to be said for stripping away needless exposition or narrative context, and diving straight into the action (a lesson The Crew and Need for Speed desperately needs to learn).

Hotshot racing ps4 review download