Atari, whose name was once surrounded by glory, is returning to its roots 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.
As a child, yes, because the vehicles featured in this game – in fact, the whole visual style, really – are reminiscent of the little cars that were easy to escape with when we were (much) younger. Those cars that, in our imagination, sped off at full speed, even going so far as to perform improbable somersaults in the air, before landing on their four wheels and crossing the finish line.
Here the idea is similar: from above, we steer our racing car along different circuits. You 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 you want to run into the wall and be overtaken. No, you will have to balance acceleration, braking, controlled skidding… There are also these special skills, such as following a rival to benefit from 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.
Finally, you will have to learn to hit and make your opponents skid. 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 this is perhaps where the problem lies: until now, we were 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 be played with friends. Preferably in a group, sitting in front of the TV, screaming because a lout has just skidded your vehicle. As proof, this track editor, accessible from the main menu, and which is just waiting 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.
Nice as anything, but also with an increasing level of difficulty that will force the Sunday drivers in us to learn to master our reflexes, controller 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)
