NASCAR Arcade Rush, the latest addition to the NASCAR gaming franchise, sped onto the scene on September 15th, 2023, promising an exhilarating experience for fans of arcade-style racing games like Trackmania. With its abundance of game modes, customization options, and online gameplay, it aimed to rev up the excitement for both casual racing enthusiasts and NASCAR fans. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of this high-octane title.
Pros
Snappy Controls
One of the standout features of NASCAR Arcade Rush is its incredibly responsive and intuitive controls. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a newcomer to the genre, the game’s handling feels smooth and satisfying, allowing for precise maneuvering around the track. However, there are some issues regarding keyboard and mouse inputs discussed later.
Player and Car Customization
NASCAR Arcade Rush doesn’t disappoint when it comes to personalization. With a wide array of customization options, players can transform their vehicles into unique racing machines. From paint jobs to chassis, and cosmetics, the game offers a deep and engaging customization experience.
Unique and Well-Designed Tracks
The tracks in NASCAR Arcade Rush are all unique. They are thoughtfully designed and draw comparisons to their real-life counterparts throughout. Martinsville Speedway, for example, offers a small fast-paced track like its real-life counterpart.
Leveling System
NASCAR Arcade Rush incorporates a leveling system that rewards players with free customization options as they progress, up to level 100. This feature adds depth to the gameplay, encouraging players to finish in high positions and to keep coming back for more to unlock exciting new items and enhancements.
Multiplayer Experience
While unfortunately on Steam the playerbase is significantly lacking. The multiplayer that we did play was seamless. It was easy to create a lobby and invite friends. As with any game, playing with friends definitely increased the enjoyment of the game. It is also worth mentioning the game has split-screen support and co-op for those looking to game as a team.
Cons
Steep Price Tag
The biggest downside of NASCAR Arcade Rush is its price. At $50, the game is setting itself up for failure. At that pricepoint, budget conscious gamers are comparing this title to other titles like Elden Ring or Forza Horizon 5. This price point is frankly unrealistic and damaging. A more reasonable price point, around $20, would have made it a more attractive option for a wider audience.
Camera Angle
We found the default camera angle in the game to be a bit restrictive. Some tracks, while unique and thrilling were made more difficult due to the restrictive camera. While it’s a matter of personal preference, having more camera options would allow for better visual clarity whilst racing.
Lengthy Unskippable Intro
The game’s intro cutscene is frustratingly lengthy and lacks a skip option. For players eager to dive into the action, or change input settings on PC, this can be annoying when restarting the game repeatedly.
Keyboard and Mouse Support Issues
Unfortunately, NASCAR Arcade Rush doesn’t fully support keyboard and mouse inputs. This limitation could disappoint players who prefer these peripherals or those who struggle with controllers, potentially limiting the game’s accessibility.
Conclusion
In conclusion, NASCAR Arcade Rush offers an adrenaline-packed racing experience with snappy controls, fun car customization, and unique tracks that will keep players engaged. Its decent multiplayer mode and leveling system add to the overall appeal. However, the steep price, camera angle restrictions, and limited keyboard and mouse support are notable drawbacks that may deter some potential players. If you’re a die-hard NASCAR fan or an arcade racing enthusiast, it’s certainly worth considering, but budget-conscious gamers should keep an eye out for discounts or price reductions to get the most value out of this title.
Story: n/a
Gameplay: 5/10
Customization: 7/10
Overall: 6/10
