Cars

Reviewed by John Burrell Jr.
June 15, 2006

Developer: Locomotive Games Publisher: THQ Platforms: XBOX, PS2, PSP, GBA, Gamecube, Nintendo DS, PC, Mac Players: 1 - 8 ESRB Rating: E for Everyone Website: Click Here

Screenshot from Cars. Courtesy THQ.

Gamers can re-enact as one of their favorite characters from Disney/Pixar's “Cars: the Movie.” Players race as one of 15 unlock able characters to win the coveted Piston Cup and run through the finish line. Featuring all the major voice talents from the movie, gamers interact with Lightning McQueen, Doc Hudson, Chick Hicks and more as they investigate and explore the town of radiator springs. Some versions of the game such as the Gamecube and the Nintendo DS also contain mini games that make good use of the multiplayer feature.

Each version contains movie quality graphics that are good representations of the film. Original designs and voices were used to give the consumer the authentic feel. There are about thirty different environments that can one can race. The game has an enjoyable story mode that takes them through select scenes from the movie. There is also a mode that allows one to explore the different locales in Radiator Springs. Game controls are fairly simple to learn for all the systems: one button to accelerate, one to break and the control stick to steer. As a multiplayer title, this is a great family product for the kids at an affordable price. It's an easy to learn and play game that everyone can enjoy. Mini games are included as a separate mode from racing to break up the monotony.

At an affordable price, this great movie title has a lot of replay value for young an old. If the story and racing get boring there is always the variety of mini games and exploring the town. There is no questionable content so parents won't have to worry about kids playing this alone. The best part of this product is that the subject matter is appealing to kids both young and old!