Fast & Furious: Arcade Edition – A Guilty Pleasure on PS5 That Doesn’t Take Itself Seriously
You might be wondering why Eurogamer is covering Fast & Furious: Arcade Edition when a proper review of Ninja Gaiden 4 remains absent. Fair question. This isn’t a game aiming for greatness, it’s unapologetically a bit rough around the edges. Yet, despite its flaws – a noticeable stutter during boosts, limited content, and simplistic handling – it’s surprisingly, endearingly fun.
This port brings the arcade experience to your playstation 5, and it’s a blast if you approach it with the right mindset.
What to Expect: Over-the-Top Action & Pure Speed
Fast & Furious: arcade Edition isn’t about realistic racing. It’s about high-octane, multi-lap races with a twist. Each race throws an objective at you – stopping a missile, grounding a plane – adding a layer of chaotic fun.
Expect:
* Alternate routes and shortcuts: Courses are designed for exploration and maximizing speed.
* Environmental hazards: Large obstacles constantly threaten to derail your run.
* Physics-defying thrills: Cars prioritize speed and momentum over realism.
* Constant boosting: The core gameplay loop revolves around maximizing your boost.
Essentially,it’s about going fast and enjoying the ride.
!Screenshot of Fast and Furious: arcade Edition running on PS5
Note: Screenshots are taken pre-race due to in-game pausing limitations.
A Familiar Feel: Cruis’n Blast Connection
If this sounds familiar, you’re likely remembering Cruis’n Blast. Developed by raw Thrills – the same studio behind The Fast and Furious Arcade – the similarities are striking.Both games share a similar feel, prioritizing over-the-top action and a lack of polish.
Fast & Furious: Arcade Edition taps into the same part of your brain that craves simple, exhilarating fun. It doesn’t demand strategic thinking; it just wants you to go.
Accessibility
Unluckily, Fast & Furious: arcade Edition offers no accessibility options.
Not Game of the Year Material,But Still Worth It
Don’t expect to see this title in our Game of the Year discussions. It’s not a masterpiece. However, just because it doesn’t rival the best games doesn’t mean it’s not enjoyable.
Think of it like a guilty pleasure snack – a Burger King plant-based Whopper or a Greggs vegan sausage roll. You wouldn’t call them culinary achievements, but you’ll happily indulge when the craving hits.
Perhaps it’s nostalgia for a simpler time,when games were less complex and more focused on pure arcade thrills. At £25 with six tracks and eight cars, it delivers a focused experience. There’s a definite audience for this kind of uncomplicated, high-speed fun.
A copy of Fast & Furious: Arcade Edition was provided by the publisher for review.
Key Takeaways:
* Target Audience: Fans of arcade racers and the Fast & Furious franchise.
* Pros: Fast-paced, chaotic fun; easy to pick up and play; nostalgic appeal.
* Cons: Limited content; lacks depth; noticeable stuttering; no accessibility options.
Related reading