Speed Busters: American Highways

Review

by Nick Smith

You've seen racing games before, in arcades or on your favorite console, but you've never seen anything like Speedbusters from UbiSoft, a racing game with a difference that's easy to feel but difficult to define.

Like other games, from OutRun upwards, Speedbusters very easy to pick up. You just choose your car, the track, the weather, and then drive. Like other games, you pick up cash prizes at the end of each race and can use them to improve your car. You won't be surprised to read that there are six tracks, plus a bonus hidden track, and four modes of play (including online with your internet buddies).

The difference is in the way that Speedbusters takes itself, which is none too seriously. The graphics and speed of the game are, beyond question, absolutely excellent - especially if you've got a 3dfx card or a graphics card that will support Direct3D. The gameplay is worthy as well. You'll play it again and again.

But... have you ever driven down the street and suddenly seen a dinosaur lumber across the road? Have you ever seen potholes or manhole covers loosen and spew water skywards just before you reach them?

That's the fun difference that makes Speedbusters so special. The cars, landscapes and scenarios are varied and the graphics wonderful, but the sense of fun built into the game is unique. You'll have a fast and furious time with SpeedBusters - but only if you have a competent graphics card. If you've got a puny PC with little video memory, forget it.