Super Woden GP II is more of the same in comparison to the original.
It is an isometric racer that looks like the player is controlling a remote-controlled car within a diorama backdrop. The crowd and some textures are purposely lower res, providing this game with its toy-like visual charm. Completing this theme is the electronic soundtrack that is varied and energetic.
Unfortunately, the same issues from the original game repeat. The biggest problem comes from the challenge and unbalance. Simply put, this game is hard. Very hard. The only way to win is to drive flawlessly which is tremendously difficult due to the floaty and loose controls.
Compounding this issue is the currency, the unlockable/upgrading system, and the roster of vehicles. Before the player can start playing, a car must first be purchased. The game gives the player an initial stash of credits in which the first vehicle can be purchased. However, there are dozens of vehicles in which to choose. Purchasing a low-end model practically guarantees failure. So the player is better off spending all the money on one car and hopes it is good enough when stacked against the competition. Then, to unlock more cars or vehicles upgrades, the player needs to win. But the only way to win is to have a good car and drive well. So it is a fiercely unbalanced and frustrating double edged sword. Also, grinding the first unlockable stages to earn enough cash is simply not fun.
The confusing UI also returns in this sequel. Instead of simply picking a race from an easy to navigate menu, selections must be navigated through a literal map of a mock-Europe. Then, once a race icon is found, chances are you won’t be able to compete in that race because a qualifying vehicles most likely isn’t in your inventory or you have not obtained a high enough star rating. It is like the game is intentionally keeping you from having fun.
Finally, the difficulty is an issue. Even if you managed to scrounge enough cash to unlock a higher end car, you still need to contend with the drifty controls. In short, it is a contradiction. The game looks like a slightly more advanced Micro Machines title but handles like Gran Turismo. Do not let the arcadey, kiddie looking appearance fool you. There are no Mario Kart-like weapons. There are no loop-de-loops or speed pads. And you need to break and turn appropriately with every turn. This is not a pick-up-and-play game. After numerous attempts, I was finally able to obtain first place in the very first race. Unfortunately, it didn’t earn me enough credits to unlock any upgrades, new vehicles, or even extra tracks. And so the vicious cycles repeats. Players also need to waste precious currency on oil changes, tune ups, and even car washes.
Super Woden GP II is unfortunately too much like the original and not the Super Sprint-clone that you wish it was. If a racer looks like an arcade game, it should have gameplay to match. Instead, the juxtaposition and unbalance results in frustration instead of fun.
SCORE: 4/10
Also Don’t Play: Music Racer Ultimate
Still More Fun Than: emoji Kart Racer
Play It Instead: Slot Car Rivals on 3DS StreetPass
By: Zachary Gasiorowski, Editor in Chief myGamer.com
Twitter: @ZackGaz
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