Game Overview
Developer: NET2KGAMES
Publisher: NET2KGAMES
Platform: Steam, PS5 (reviewed), Switch
ESRB Rating: E for Everyone
Price: $9.99 (Steam)/$19.99 (PS5)/$11.99 (Switch)
Links: Steam | PlayStation Store | Nintendo Switch| Official website
Over the years, the evolution of racing simulations has been remarkable. With advancements in gaming technology, the accuracy of physics and tire modeling has seen significant improvements. The pandemic has further propelled many enthusiasts to set up sophisticated sim racing rigs at home. Sim racing has gained traction as a legitimate pathway into real-world motorsports, though it is distinct from events like the Indy Racing League.
For those who do not aspire to be the next racing sensation like Max Verstappen, there’s a nostalgic charm to simpler racing games. “Rally Arcade Classics” (RAC) offers just that, harkening back to the more carefree racing experiences of yesteryears.
Developed by NET2KGAMES, RAC can be seen as a modern homage to iconic titles such as Sega Rally and Colin McRae Rally. Instead of focusing on prestigious courses like the Nürburgring, this game emphasizes point-to-point racing against the clock across familiar rallying landscapes cherished by long-time fans of the World Rally Championship.
Players will navigate through diverse terrains reminiscent of Finland’s fast dirt roads, the winding mountain paths of Greece, the technical tarmac stages of Catalonia in Spain, and the challenging conditions of Monte Carlo, which features asphalt, ice, and snow. The rallying format means each location is divided into several short stages, with some set under the cover of night.
The vehicle roster reflects the indie nature of the game, lacking official endorsements but brimming with recognizable cars from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Starting with the Kopper—a nod to the classic Mini Cooper known for its triumph at the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally—players will engage with a mix of front-, rear-, and all-wheel-drive vehicles, including some heavily modified for rallying.
While the specific car names may differ (the Peugeot 205 is dubbed the Paigot 5, the Golf GTI becomes the Wolf, and the iconic Lancia Delta Integrale is represented as the Betta), fans may find joy in spotting these classic models throughout their racing journey. However, some names, like the Subaru Imprezas referred to as Imperial R and MR Bang STI, remain a bit of a mystery.
Gameplay Features
Rally Arcade Classics offers various modes to cater to different playstyles. The Tour option comprises several sub-modes, including point-to-point races, Versus challenges against other racers, and a Drift mode where players can earn points by executing drifts. The short levels create a fast-paced gaming experience as players tackle groups of five stages at a time. Achievements are rewarded with gold, silver, and bronze times, allowing players to collect credits for new car acquisitions.
The Arcade mode pits players against 14 other vehicles across four distinct stages, with specialized arcade modes for each vehicle. The Rally mode presents a more in-depth experience, requiring completion of all stages within a selected location, featuring random weather conditions and multiple difficulty levels. Chronicle mode serves as a time trial experience, while the Events mode includes various online challenges.
A licensing section, reminiscent of those found in Gran Turismo titles, challenges players to beat the clock without colliding with obstacles. Those familiar with similar gameplay will find this feature engaging.
While the car graphics lean towards a cartoonish aesthetic, the Monte Carlo stages evoke memories of actual driving through those roads on a brisk winter morning, showcasing the developers’ attention to environmental detail. Although the audio feedback, particularly the co-driver’s pace notes, lacks complexity compared to titles like Colin McRae or the Dirt series, they remain clear and easy to follow.
The handling of the vehicles is particularly enjoyable, especially in the early stages. The physics echo the vibe of games like Project Gotham Racing 3 or PGR4, prioritizing fun over realism—a refreshing change amidst an era dominated by realism in racing simulations. Even as a player with moderate racing skills, the game rewards drifting and losing rear-wheel traction, making short stages ideal for quick play sessions during brief downtime.
