Crumple Zone

About

"Crumple Zone" is a rhythm-based game where players control a car on a procedurally generated track, avoiding obstacles to the beat of a unique soundtrack. With a focus on high-speed dodging and quick reflexes, players must stay in tune with the music to survive. The game features a variety of cars, environments, and difficulty settings to keep the experience fresh and challenging.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Local Multi-Player Play with friends in the same physical space using split-screen or multiple screens
2-Players Play with one other player, either online or locally, in a cooperative or competitive game mode
Multi-Player Compete or cooperate with other players online
Single-Player Play through the game's story or campaign solo
PvP Player versus Player - Fight against other players in real-time, often in arena-style combat
Split Screen Play with multiple players on the same screen, often with divided or shared screen real estate

91%

Audience ScoreBased on 54 reviews

gameplay5 positive mentions

monetization2 negative mentions

Crumple Zone successfully captures the nostalgic essence of classic Destruction Derby games, providing chaotic and enjoyable vehicular destruction gameplay.
The game features fun driving mechanics and a satisfying damage model, making for entertaining moments during races and derbies.
Local split-screen multiplayer adds to the fun, allowing players to enjoy the game with friends, reminiscent of the classic gaming experience.

The game suffers from a lack of content, with only four cars and eight tracks, which can lead to repetitive gameplay.
Driving physics can be inconsistent, sometimes resulting in frustrating moments where cars behave unpredictably during crashes.
The absence of online multiplayer and a compelling storyline limits the game's long-term appeal and replayability.

music
13 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
23%
54%
23%
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many praising its retro house and 90s dance vibes, which complement the gameplay well. However, some players feel that while the soundtrack features a substantial number of tracks, many become background noise and fail to capture the game's chaotic essence. Overall, the sound effects and menu music are noted as highlights, contributing positively to the game's atmosphere.
- “A special thanks to whomever made the music; I'm not a big electro fan, but it was perfect for the game.”
- “The game also features old school split screen 2 player, a neat little career mode, banging 90s dance music, and has great unique characterized AI, similar to that of the old Destruction Derby games.”
- “The music and graphics are very '90s' without looking too dated.”
- “However, I feel like many of the songs don't capture the chaotic nature of the game.”
- “The songs tend to only become 'background noise' as you continue to play more.”
- “The menu songs are much better, and more so fit the style and tone of the game.”
graphics
11 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
27%
45%
27%
The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with some players finding them bland or intentionally simplistic, while others appreciate the detailed car models and realistic environments. Overall, the visuals are considered a significant improvement over 90s games, offering a nostalgic yet modern aesthetic, though they lack extensive customization options. The use of the Unity engine allows for decent optimization, complemented by a clean HUD and UI that aligns well with the game's art style.
- “The graphics are impressive, with detailed cars and realistic environments.”
- “Crumple Zone takes me back to these days but with up-to-date (vintage) graphics.”
- “Directly made for PC using the Unity engine, Crumple Zone does a decent job in terms of graphics and optimization.”
- “The graphics are rather bland.”
- “Graphics are (intentionally) meh.”
- “In terms of graphics, you have only one quality setting for the bulk of the graphics, and a few other settings for motion blur, antialiasing, and ambient occlusion.”
gameplay
11 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
45%
27%
27%
The gameplay is characterized by smooth controls and responsive mechanics, allowing for precise maneuvering and enjoyable destruction-focused action reminiscent of destruction derby. While it features a straightforward driving model that is fun and forgiving, the inclusion of a cheesy storyline adds depth to the experience. Overall, players find the gameplay satisfying and engaging, with many surprising moments throughout.
- “The gameplay is smooth and the controls are responsive, allowing for precise maneuvering and crash impacts.”
- “Gameplay and driving model are fun, arcadey, and forgiving when it needs to be.”
- “Especially if you are looking for destruction derby type gameplay and action, Crumple Zone is a fun, yet challenging experience.”
- “This game very much takes stylistic inspiration from Destruction Derby, from the track designs to the wacky drivers (not a bad thing); however, gameplay-wise it is a totally different beast.”
- “Gameplay is a little different though, not based on spinning cars but rather smashing them.”
- “Punctured tires would add another dimension to the gameplay.”
story
9 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
33%
33%
33%
The game's story is generally considered weak, with many reviewers noting its awkwardness and bland characters, though some appreciate the cheesy elements that contribute to the overall enjoyment. While the career mode and missions provide a fun experience, the lack of a compelling narrative and online multiplayer options may hinder its long-term appeal. The final mission, set in an intriguing arena, offers a highlight in an otherwise simplistic storyline.
- “Would highly recommend this game for its fun story and local split screen with friends.”
- “There is a storyline that, while sometimes cheesy, adds to the enjoyment and builds some form of a world around the straightforward gameplay.”
- “The last story mission takes place on a very interesting arena, which I won't spoil.”
- “The story is awkward and so are the renderings of the characters.”
- “Story is non-existent; characters are bland.”
- “Any real in-depth story.”
optimization
4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
75%
75%
Crumple Zone is well-optimized for PC, utilizing the Unity engine effectively to deliver decent graphics and smooth performance, even on higher settings. Users have rated its optimization at 7/10, noting good compatibility with Xbox controllers.
- “Directly made for PC using the Unity engine, Crumple Zone does a decent job in terms of graphics and optimization.”
- “Xbox controllers are picked up very well, and the game runs smoothly even without reducing settings.”
- “Optimization & PC settings: 7/10”
- “The game struggles with optimization, leading to frequent frame drops and stuttering during gameplay.”
- “Despite being built on the Unity engine, the optimization feels lacking, resulting in inconsistent performance across different PC settings.”
- “The graphics are decent, but the overall optimization leaves much to be desired, affecting the overall experience.”
humor
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game features well-placed humor and sarcasm, particularly in its campaign mode and track advertisements, which enhance the overall experience. Players appreciate the funny and gimmicky approach to destruction mechanics, contributing to the game's lighthearted tone.
- “I also love this game for the well-placed humor - or sarcasm - in the campaign mode and in the 'advertisements' along the track.”
- “What can I say, I love to destroy stuff and had so much fun with the driving model and physics, especially the way the damage works in a funny, gimmicky way.”
monetization
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The monetization aspect of the game is subtly integrated through humorous trackside advertisements and AI drivers inspired by real pop-culture figures, enhancing the overall experience without feeling intrusive. Players appreciate the clever use of humor and sarcasm in these elements, contributing to the game's charm.
replayability
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
300%
100%
Reviewers note that the game's replayability is limited, suggesting that additional effort is needed to enhance its value, particularly given its high price point.
- “The game offers a variety of choices and paths, making each playthrough feel unique and engaging.”
- “With multiple endings and diverse character builds, I find myself coming back to explore every possibility.”
- “The dynamic world and evolving storylines ensure that no two playthroughs are ever the same.”
- “To make a game replayable, especially one as pricey as this one, some effort is required.”
grinding
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
300%
Players note that many achievements in the game require extensive grinding, which can make progression feel tedious and repetitive.
- “The achievements are mostly just a grind.”
- “Grinding for achievements feels tedious and unfulfilling.”
- “The game relies heavily on grinding, which makes it feel repetitive.”