From the moment players drop into the vibrant, loop-filled world of Hot Wheels Let’s Race: Ultimate Speed, developed by Bamtang Games and published by GameMill Entertainment, it’s clear this is a celebration of toy-car spectacle over simulation realism. The game embraces the Hot Wheels fantasy with gleaming orange tracks, exaggerated jumps, and instantly recognisable vehicles like the GT-Scorcher and Duck N’ Roll. Characters lifted from the animated series help frame the action, and the exuberant presentation channels pure nostalgia for anyone who grew up building plastic track loops in their living room – even if you’re not familiar with the series this is named after.
Visually, the game bursts with saturated colour and bold design. Tracks twist through canyons and cities in cinematic fashion, and the high-energy soundtrack keeps pace with the chaotic racing. Despite the excitement, visual variety can feel limited after extended play, with certain backdrops repeating and only a few environments standing out distinctly. The audio supports the arcade energy well enough, but while the music and engine effects are fitting, they rarely achieve the range or depth of top-tier racing titles.
The gameplay is immediately accessible. Drifting, boosting, and respawn mechanics ensure anyone can pick up a controller and start racing within moments. It’s an approach that prioritises fun and inclusivity, but it also means handling depth and challenge are modest. The lightweight feel of the cars and forgiving AI make races easy to enjoy but hard to master. Even larger-than-life boss events sometimes feel more like interactive set-pieces than technical racing tests, but it’s fitting for the IP.
Variety within the game modes helps maintain momentum. The main Cup and Speed Trials offer structured progression, while a Track Builder mode and four-player split-screen inject extra replay value. The builder tool captures the creativity of classic Hot Wheels design, allowing players to create looping, explosive tracks to race solo or with friends. Yet, the absence of online play or community sharing features limits its staying power; local competition remains the focus, and a couch multiplayer session works great here.
When viewed through the right lens, the combination of brand, spectacle, and approachable mechanics works remarkably well. The collection of vehicles, upgrades, and unlockable cosmetics encourage experimentation, and the sense of playful discovery keeps younger audiences engaged. Still, the ceiling is low. With just twelve tracks, some repetition sets in once the thrill of the stunts and loops fades.
Ultimately, Hot Wheels Let’s Race: Ultimate Speed succeeds as a family-friendly racer that captures the essence of the brand’s over-the-top charm. It’s bright, fast, and uncomplicated – a perfect match for its target audience. Those seeking serious competition or realistic handling will find it too shallow, but for anyone chasing carefree fun on a split screen, it’s a joyful arcade ride that delivers exactly what it promises.
Score: 7.8/10
Press Play Media 