DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing, developed by Bamtang Games and published by GameMill, brings together an all-star cast of beloved DreamWorks characters for a new kart racing experience – which we tested in both single and multiplayer modes. The game features 20 iconic DreamWorks characters, including Shrek, Po, Tigress, and Puss in Boots, each with their own distinct personalities and racing styles.
One of the game’s biggest strengths lies in its impressive lineup of characters, allowing players to choose from a diverse roster of fan favorites. This diverse cast adds a layer of depth and replayability to the game, ensuring that no two races feel the same as you (and/or others) switch up characters in between them.
The karts themselves are well designed, with each one tailored to reflect the personality of its driver. The extensive customization options provide players with the opportunity to put their unique stamp on their chosen character’s ride as well, and this level of personalization not only adds to the visual appeal but also enhances the sense of ownership over your kart.
As with the character roster, the game’s tracks draw inspiration from various DreamWorks movies. From Shrek’s Swamp to the New York City Zoo from Madagascar, each track transports players into the vibrant worlds of their favorite films. Racing through these iconic locations is a nostalgic and visually captivating experience, immersing players in the magic of DreamWorks while also entertaining those who are merely looking at the action unfold when others are playing.
The inclusion of the Trolls characters as race hosts and power-up providers is a fun and musical twist for fans of that franchise who didn’t get enough Trolls in their own recent release. Their presence adds an extra layer of enjoyment, providing surprises and enhancing the overall excitement of the races.
Additionally, the introduction of magical paths and hidden shortcuts adds a strategic element to the gameplay, and mastering these shortcuts can provide a significant advantage. This is especially true for races against CPU opponents, as human opponents will eventually figure out these shortcuts as well – though you can still gain an advantage by pushing them out of the way at the right time.
DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing offers a diverse range of racing modes, including online and split-screen local multiplayer. This inclusivity ensures that players of all ages and skill levels can join in on the fun, making it an excellent choice for family game nights – local multiplayer is where this one shines.
On the downside, the game does face some audio-related challenges. The mix of character voices can be overwhelming, and the absence of licensed music may be a letdown for some players who are used to the excellent soundtracks of the films. These audio issues, while certainly not game-breaking, detract from the overall “Dreamworks” experience, as these things would have made the game even better.
So while DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing may not surpass the juggernaut that is Mario Kart or even the Sonic racing games, it successfully carves out its own niche in the kart racing genre. With its all-star cast of DreamWorks characters, captivating race tracks, and engaging gameplay mechanics, it stands as a commendable contender alongside other popular kart racing titles.
In conclusion, DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing is an entertaining kart racing game that caters to fans of both DreamWorks and kart racing enthusiasts. While it may not reach the heights of the genre, it offers a unique and enjoyable experience that is sure to provide hours of entertainment for players of all ages.
Score: 7.2/10
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