Atari, whose name was once crowned with glory, returns to its origins by dusting off the series Sprint. With NeoSprintfans of arcade-style racing will have something for their teeth, in addition to returning to their childhood.
In childhood, yes, because the vehicles offered in this game – in fact, the whole visual style, really – are reminiscent of the little cars with which it was easy to escape with, when we were (much) younger. These cars which, in our imagination, were racing at full speed, even going so far as to perform improbable somersaults in the air, before falling back on their four wheels and crossing the finish line.
Here, the idea is similar: from above, we drive our racing car along different circuits. We will also have to learn to master the power and agility of the ten vehicles that can be unlocked. Because it is not enough to rush at full speed, unless we want to crash into the wall and be overtaken. No, we will have to dose the acceleration, the braking, the controlled skidding… There are also these special skills, like following a rival to take advantage of a sudden burst of acceleration.
Not forgetting, of course, those jumps that could very well send our car in all directions, causing a delay of several very precious seconds.
You will have to learn, finally, to hit and make your opponents slip. Because in NeoSprintthere is no honor: only people left behind. And the computer will eventually come to understand this. Because if, in single-player mode, the first “campaign” – the first championship, in fact – is probably too easy for its own good, the sequel makes us understand that there will be no easy ones.
And that’s perhaps where the problem lies: until now, we’ve been told about the importance of driving well, of mastering the circuit, but now it’s war.
In fact, one thing is clear: NeoSprint is a game primarily designed to play with friends. Preferably in a group, sitting in front of the TV, screaming because some thug has just caused your vehicle to skid. As proof, this circuit editor, accessible from the main menu, and which only needs to be used to create improbable tracks. Not as improbable as Trackmaniafortunately, but nonetheless: it’s easy to imagine the crazy creations that it will be possible to design, precisely by unlocking various pieces by winning races against the computer.
Friendly as anything, but also with an increasing level of difficulty that will force the Sunday drivers in us to learn to master our reflexes, joystick in hand, NeoSprint is a very enjoyable diversion. Is it worth more than thirty dollars? It is doubtful. But with a sale, it will certainly be a title to add to one’s collection.
NeoSprint
Developer: Headless Chicken Games
Editor: Atari
Platforms: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One et Series, Nintendo Switch, Windows (testé sur Windows/Steam)
