Game: Redout
Genre: Racer
System: Nintendo Switch (also on PS4, Xbox and Steam)
Developer| Publisher: 34BigThings|Uppercut Games
Price: $39.99|£35.99| € 39,99
Age Rating: EU 3+| USA E
Release Date: 14th May 2019
Review code kindly provided by Nicalis
Back in September 1995, the first PlayStation was launched in European markets, along with launch title Wipe Out from Psygnosis. For the time the game proved to be an excellent showcase for Sony’s console. I remember being bewildered by how the game looked and sounded. Sadly, I never quite mastered the controls, but I enjoyed my time with it nevertheless. Move ahead to 2019, and Nintendo Switch is home to two futuristic type racers. Early on, Nintendo fans had the chance to play Fast RMX, which was generally well received. Now in 2019, 34BigThings has belatedly brought Redout to Nintendo Switch. The game was originally due to release back in 2017, and after a long delay, it’s finally here. So how does it fair? In short, it’s a fun game with several flaws.
On your marks… Get Set
As soon as the game boots, players can choose to participate in either a quick race or jump straight into career mode. Career mode is the best option to start with, for it contains a trial race that provides players with helpful information. Before racing, there are several ship types to choose from, each boasting different stats. Typically, stats include categories such as acceleration, speed, grip etc.
At the start, there are four events to tackle, the goals of each depending on the type of race. After each run, your ship levels up and money is awarded corresponding to your finishing position. The better the finish, the better the rewards.
The game is quite generous where XP and finances are concerned. Even if you finish last multiple times, you’ll be able to purchase power-ups, as well as unlock new ships/pods and events. Each ship type and power up can be further enhanced as long as you have the financial means to do so.
Go!
Redout is all about high-speed racing! At times, the speed can feel exhilarating, as long as your not continually banging into side walls. At times
I still struggle to control my vehicle, but things have improved since I’ve become more familiar with In-game courses. The key to successfully controlling your pod through each course rests with the right thumbstick. While zipping around turns, players can straife using the right thumbstick without the need to slow down. I still struggle with this mechanic, but this is due to my limitations rather than problems with the game itself.
The game also offers a nice variety of upgradable powers ups. Novices like myself will appreciate the chance to experiment and enjoy the extra help they offer such as improved grip, turbo boosts and drone repairs. The player can select two power-ups at a time and may choose to change them according to the type of race they face.
Content and Presentation
Redout of Nintendo Switch contains not only the main game but several DLC extras too. I haven’t even begun to enjoy the depths this game has to offer. According to a press release, the game boasts 60 full tracks, 12 different environments and a total of 28 unique ships.
Sadly, the game does suffer from a lack of local multiplayer and virtually empty online service. I’ve yet to play online due to being unable to find others playing online.
Regarding the soundtrack, Redout is exceptional and suits Redout’s futuristic look and environments. My main issue is with the obvious downgraded visuals, which at times can look very muddy, particularly in handheld mode. Even though porting the game to Switch would present many technical challenges, I can’t help compare Redouts visuals to that of Fast RMX, which seems to have the better than Redout in this area. I don’t think this ruins the game, in fact, I’ve had a great time with Redout, but I visuals are a slight letdown.
Overall
Redout is a fun futuristic racer which fans of the genre should love as long as they appreciate it for what it is. Owners of more powerful consoles such as Xbox One and PS4 may prefer Redout on their respective machine, but Switch provides a passable handheld version, which allows gamers to enjoy Redout in handheld form, in spite of the Switch’s technical limitations.
