Crumple Zone
- May 31, 2019
- OutOfTune
"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.
Reviews
- Crumple Zone is a nostalgic homage to classic Destruction Derby games, delivering fun and chaotic gameplay reminiscent of the 90s.
- The game features impressive graphics, smooth controls, and a variety of customizable options, enhancing the overall racing and demolition experience.
- Players appreciate the engaging single-player campaign and the entertaining local split-screen multiplayer mode, making it a great choice for casual gaming sessions.
- The game lacks online multiplayer features and has a limited selection of cars and tracks, which may reduce its long-term replayability.
- Some players find the gameplay to be overly simplistic and feel that it doesn't fully capture the mayhem and depth of classic demolition derby games.
- The damage model is considered basic, and the absence of a compelling storyline or more varied gameplay elements leaves some players wanting more.
- gameplay8 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by smooth controls and responsive mechanics, allowing for precise maneuvering and enjoyable crash impacts. Drawing stylistic inspiration from destruction derby, it offers a fun, arcade-like driving experience that is both forgiving and engaging, complemented by a cheesy yet enjoyable storyline. While some players suggest adding features like punctured tires for added depth, the overall gameplay remains satisfying and visually appealing.
“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.”
“The gameplay itself is satisfying to watch.”
“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.”
- graphics5 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The graphics are generally praised for their impressive detail and realism, particularly in car designs and environments, though some users find them intentionally underwhelming or reminiscent of 90s aesthetics. While not groundbreaking, they are considered a significant improvement over older games, with a mixed reception overall, averaging around 6.5/10.
“The graphics are impressive, with detailed cars and realistic environments.”
“The graphics are not spectacular, but it's 10 times better than the old '90s games, and the tracks are very interesting.”
“Graphics: 6.5/10, Sound & Music: 7.5/10, Gameplay: 8/10”
“The music and graphics are very '90s' without looking too dated.”
- music4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The music in the game is characterized by a retro house and acid vibe, reminiscent of the 90s dance scene, which complements its nostalgic aesthetic. Reviewers appreciate the sound effects and overall sound quality, rating it positively alongside the graphics and gameplay.
“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 sound effects are also good enough for me and the music is a retro house/acid style, no metal or garage rock this time.”
“The music and graphics are very '90s' without looking too dated.”
- story2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The game's story is described as somewhat cheesy but enjoyable, contributing to the overall experience and world-building. However, the absence of a compelling narrative and online multiplayer features may hinder its long-term appeal.
“There is a storyline that, while sometimes cheesy, adds to the enjoyment and builds some form of a world around the straightforward gameplay.”
“The story feels disjointed and lacks coherence, making it hard to stay engaged.”
“Character development is shallow, leaving players with little emotional investment in their journeys.”
“The plot twists are predictable and fail to deliver any real surprises or depth.”
- monetization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization aspect of the game is subtly integrated through humorous trackside billboard advertisements and AI drivers that reference real pop-culture figures, enhancing the overall experience without overtly pushing for additional purchases.