Horizon Chase 2, developed by Aquiris Game Studio and published by Epic Games, brings the classic thrill of arcade racing to the PlayStation 5 once more. Following its successful release on PC and Switch last year, this sequel stays true to its roots while adding several modern enhancements that make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you have fond memories of games like OutRun, read on.
From the moment the engines start to roar, Horizon Chase 2 captures the spirit of the games that inspired it with its vibrant art style. The game’s visual design is a blend of retro aesthetics and modern 3D environments, but firmly leans towards nostalgia. Each track, with different weather situations between, has been meticulously crafted, offering a distinct experience that makes for lots more variety between them than the original wave of arcade racers had. The dynamic weather conditions further enhance the visual appeal and add a layer of strategy to each race, forcing players to adapt their driving style to changing conditions as rain affects the handling of your car.
Gameplay in Horizon Chase 2 is where the game excels. It does a great job at making sure it feels like the classic 80s/90s arcade racing mechanics are alive and well, providing a sense of speed and control that is both accessible and challenging. The controls are fairly straightforward, letting you focus on the racing action, and the learning curve is gentle enough for newcomers. At the same time, the game demands sharp reflexes and a strategic use of nitro boosts to outmaneuver opponents, ensuring that even seasoned racers will find it hard to master.
The game’s various modes add substantial replay value. The World Tour mode offers a structured progression through a series of increasingly challenging races, while the Playground mode introduces a competitive edge with online races and unique challenges. Multiplayer is a standout feature, and we had a blast playing this one in its local split-screen mode.
Customization is another highlight of Horizon Chase 2. The Garage Shop allows players to personalize their cars with a wide range of cosmetic items, from paint jobs to decals. As you progress through the World Tour, you’ll unlock even more options, so if customization is your thing then this one has you covered. This feature not only adds a personal touch but also provides a sense of accomplishment for completionists.
However, Horizon Chase 2 is not without its minor flaws. While the simplicity of the controls is a strength, some players might find the lack of depth in car handling a bit limiting compared to today’s more simulation-focused racing games. Additionally, the AI can sometimes feel predictable, which might reduce the challenge for more experienced players. Nevertheless, these are minor issues in an otherwise stellar package, and both of these flaws are more or less inherent to the arcade racing genre.
The audio in Horizon Chase 2 deserves special mention though. The soundtrack, composed by Barry Leitch, is a perfect accompaniment to the high-speed action. Each track has tons of energy, enhancing the sense of speed and excitement like the tunes in OutRun did. Combined with the game’s sound effects, the audio experience is immersive and helps to draw players into its retro racing environment.
In conclusion, Horizon Chase 2 successfully captures the spirit of classic arcade racing while incorporating modern elements that enhance the overall experience by adding more replay value and lasting appeal. Its stunning retro visuals, accessible yet challenging gameplay, and robust multiplayer make it a standout title on the PlayStation 5. Whether you’re a fan of the original or a newcomer to the series, Horizon Chase 2 is a blast to play.
Score: 8.0/10
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