Ridge Racer

Review

by Shawn Sackenheim

Ridge Racer is the PlayStation's classic racing game and is always worth a run or two. At first the control will get to you with its extremely touchy feel but if you stick with it and learn the power slide (simply let off the gas, head into a turn, and gun it) you'll be having a blast in no time!

Unfortunately, Ridge Racer basically has a mere three courses with easy and medium being the same, only with more laps. While each can be run backwards and they all offer various lighting and graphic changes, they're still the same tracks.

However, Ridge Racer is so much fun that as soon as you finish one race you'll quickly hit start and begin another; that's how much fun the game is. A high quality rave techno soundtrack accompanies the action and really pumps the adrenaline. A hokey announcer is along for the wild ride as well. Laughably funny, he often blurts out memorable phrases like "This is just what I wanted to see" and "You're one expert of a driver! You've gotta teach me!".

Ridge Racer's tracks are all highly detailed with lots to see and a lighting system similar to Soul Blade where time passes quicker than real-time meaning that you'll find yourself blazing around corners through morning, noon, and late into the night.

Overall, Ridge Racer is a fun title that racing fans, especially those who can't get enough of the power slide, will love. If you're only half interested in racing games, I'd suggest a rental. Either way, you'll most definitely have fun with Ridge Racer. You might also try Ridge Racer Revolution or Rage Racer.