Horizon Chase 2 may not have the same level of excitement as other racing games on the market, but it has a certain addictive quality that makes it hard to put down. While it may not reach the heights of popular kart racers or offer the same level of realism as exclusive driving games, this arcade-style racer delivers on its promise of high-speed thrills. However, it falls short in some areas and hits a few bumps along the way, particularly on the Switch platform.
Horizon Chase 2, like its predecessor Horizon Chase Turbo, pays homage to the classic arcade era. Its focus is solely on the horizon and the finish line that lies ahead, without any gimmicks or catch. As you race through the game’s low-fidelity courses set in various locations around the world, everything around you becomes a blur as you reach dizzying speeds. While the visuals may not be as sharp and vibrant as the first game, the energizing soundtrack by Barry Leitch captures the pulsating essence of classic racers from the ’90s and early 2000s.
Horizon Chase 2 offers different game modes that add a touch of depth to its fast-paced gameplay. In the World Tour mode, you race in courses around the world, aiming to podium while collecting blue coins scattered across the racetrack. This mode introduces a slight change from the other modes, but the upgrades and unlocks for individual cars could have been implemented better. Instead of earning garage-wide level-up options, players are limited to one car at a time. However, completing courses in specific countries will reward you with new, leveled-up cars that each have their own distinct characteristics.
Time Trials mode puts your speed, precision, and skill to the test. Unlike traditional time trials, you must hit specific times by collecting time coins and strategically using boost pads. These challenges, though optional, provide a different and exciting experience within the game. They can be tough, but once mastered, they become the highlight of Horizon Chase 2. Unfortunately, these challenges are somewhat scarce, leaving players wanting more.
While Horizon Chase 2 delivers an enjoyable racing experience, it faces some technical issues on the Switch platform. The frame rate dips during races, which may affect the overall visual experience, but not the gameplay itself. However, crashes are a different story. The game crashes when players decline to log into an Epic Games account, which is a frustrating requirement for online play or accessing leaderboards. The UI also has a bug that replaces button prompts with a non-existent button, causing confusion and making menu navigation frustrating.
Horizon Chase 2 may be a fun arcade racer, but it lacks the breadth of content found in other racing games. The high-speed races and similar courses tend to blur together, leaving players with a sense of repetition. Despite its addictive gameplay, the game ultimately falls short in terms of variety and depth.
Horizon Chase 2 offers a solid arcade racing experience that will appeal to fans of the genre. Its addictive gameplay, nostalgic soundtrack, and challenging time trials make it an enjoyable option for racing enthusiasts. However, the technical issues and limited content prevent it from reaching the same heights as other racing games on the market.
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