Speed Crew, released by Wild Fields for major systems including the PlayStation 5, aims to deliver a blend of Overcooked-esque co-op chaos and high-speed racing-themed challenges. Designed for 1-4 players who can form an elite pit stop crew, you’ll navigate through four decades of racing championships, starting in the 1970s. Does it change up the usual formula? We checked it out on a PS5.
The central premise of Speed Crew is to assemble and manage your pit crew, a task that involves assigning roles and executing clean repairs – though that makes it sound more like a sim title than the cooperative party game it really is. The game’s engaging storyline, which features animated and voiced cinematics, unfolds across four racing championships/decades, filled with nostalgia for racing enthusiasts. Over the course of the entire game, you’ll play though 48 levels, each presenting unique challenges and hazards that test your crew’s skills and ability to cooperate under (time) pressure.
One of the standout features of Speed Crew is the ability to build your pit crew with up to four members, emphasizing teamwork as the key to success. The gameplay mechanics involve diagnosing car issues, making efficient repairs using various tools, and navigating pit lanes – which turn out to be dangerous places to be in. The introduction of things like shifting platforms adds an extra layer of challenge, ensuring that each race is a thrilling experience as you’re living it from the pit box.
Unsurprisingly, the game mostly shines in its multiplayer mode, where the coordination among teammates enhances the overall experience. The ability to assign tasks to teammates and the option for online multiplayer make it clear that Speed Crew is designed with cooperative play in mind, and it’s a far superior experience to what you get as a solo player.
Visually, Speed Crew features stylized 3D graphics with a retro touch, complemented by a custom-made soundtrack for each decade that adds era-specific charm to each chapter. While the graphics feel somewhat generic in a crowded genre, they contribute to the game’s look and feel, offering a unique and enjoyable aesthetic thanks to the racing theme. The game’s audio, coupled with its visuals, sets the tone for the chaotic yet humorous atmosphere of the pit crew mayhem.
In terms of positives, Speed Crew excels in delivering a fast-paced and entertaining experience that can be enjoyed in both single-player or local/online co-op multiplayer modes – though we recommend the latter. The diverse range of tasks, increasing complexity, and hazards in the pit lanes keep the gameplay engaging. The game’s sense of humor adds a lighthearted touch to the racing intensity as well, and racing enthusiasts will appreciate the subtle real world and pop culture references that can be seen all over the campaign.
However, like any game, Speed Crew has its share of drawbacks. The controls, especially in solo play, may feel a bit clunky, and the graphics, while charming, might not appeal to everyone. In conclusion, Speed Crew offers an enjoyable and chaotic party game experience that truly shines when played with friends. The blend of racing, the diverse challenges that come with being a pit crew, and the necessity for teamwork makes it a standout choice for those seeking a lighthearted and engaging multiplayer experience. Whether you’re fixing tires or refueling cars, Speed Crew brings an entertaining twist to the genre.
Score: 7.8/10
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