Overpass 2, developed by Neopica and published by Nacon, was a bit of a surprising sequel when it was announced. We enjoyed the first game well enough despite its rougher edges, but based on critical and player reception we weren’t expecting another attempt at it. Overpass 2 sets out once again to blend the thrill of off-roading with the challenges of obstacle navigation. With 33 vehicles to choose from across three categories, players can choose from UTV buggies, ATV quads, and the newly introduced Rock Bouncers. In addition, the game offers a diverse range of terrains across five regions, providing a robust playground for players to test their mettle – we tried out the PlayStation 5 version.
The career mode takes center stage in Overpass 5, allowing players to manage their team, sponsors, and budget while making strategic choices for research and development. This includes upgrading vehicles and mapping out progress via a skill tree. But while the career mode offers depth, it may not fully captivate every player, as it lacks a certain degree of excitement and variety for those just looking to get behind the wheel and aren’t that interested in the team management aspects.
In terms of gameplay mechanics, Overpass 2 presents a mixed experience. The controls function effectively, allowing players to swiftly transition between four-wheel and two-wheel drive modes, with each offering distinct advantages. Over time, knowing when to switch can feel very satisfying when it becomes the key to getting over obstacles in the best possible way. However, the AI’s erratic behavior can be a source of frustration that breaks the immersion, as opponents often collide with objects or veer off-course, resulting in victories that feel somewhat unearned. This inconsistency in AI behavior detracts from the overall challenge, and should have been addressed prior to launch.
Overpass 2’s races vary in duration, striking a balance between short, intense sprints and lengthier, more strategic challenges. The racing experience leans towards the arcade side, lacking the realism found in titles like Heavy Duty Challenge. Additionally, the game could benefit from a more immersive atmosphere, as the environments you drive around in tend to feel repetitive.
Graphically, Overpass 2 displays a mix of strengths and weaknesses. While ray-tracing can impact frame rates, load times are impressively short. And despite the repetition mentioned earlier, the environments and vehicles are visually satisfactory on the PlayStation 5, with realistic details such as tire tracks and terrain elements. The game also leverages the DualSense features effectively, particularly during starts.
Ultimately, Overpass 2 emerges as a competent off-roading game, albeit one that doesn’t significantly push boundaries. The diverse vehicles and terrains provide a solid foundation, but the AI’s inconsistencies and lack of ambiance dampen the overall experience. The career mode, while comprehensive, may not resonate strongly with every player. With some refinements, particularly in AI behavior, Overpass 2 has the potential to become an off-road racing title well worth checking out.
Score: 6.8/10
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