Summary
- Release Year: 2007
- Genres: Racing
- Platforms: PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable
- Developers: EA UK
- Publishers: Electronic Arts
Burnout Dominator: A High-Octane Racing Experience
Introduction
Burnout Dominator, released in 2007 for the PlayStation 2 and PlayStation Portable, is an adrenaline-fueled racing game that takes the Burnout series to new heights. With a focus on chaining Burnouts, new game modes, and a variety of tracks, Burnout Dominator delivers an exhilarating and intense racing experience.
Gameplay
The core gameplay of Burnout Dominator revolves around the Burnout mechanic, where players drain their boost meter completely without stopping. This high-risk maneuver rewards players with a speed boost and a multiplier for their score.
The game introduces four new game modes that challenge players to master different aspects of Burnout racing:
- Maniac Mode: Players earn points by driving dangerously, performing drifts, air, oncoming, and near misses. Chaining Burnouts increases the score multiplier.
- Drift Challenge: Players aim to accumulate as many feet of drifting as possible. Chaining Burnouts also boosts the score multiplier here.
- Near Miss Challenge: Similar to Drift Challenge, but players focus on scoring near miss bonuses.
- Burnout Challenge: Players strive to obtain the highest Burnout score possible. Chaining Burnouts, as usual, increases the multiplier.
While Burnout Dominator retains the fast-paced and chaotic racing style of its predecessors, it also introduces new gameplay elements. Players can now perform Takedowns on opponents by crashing into them, earning boost and score bonuses. The game also features a new Crashbreaker mechanic, which allows players to break out of crashes and continue racing without losing speed.
Tracks and Locations
Burnout Dominator features 12 diverse tracks set in 8 real-world locations, including Las Vegas, Tokyo, and London. Each track has a forward and reverse configuration, providing a total of 24 unique racing experiences.
The tracks are designed to challenge players with a variety of obstacles, shortcuts, and hazards. From narrow city streets to winding mountain roads, Burnout Dominator offers a wide range of racing environments.
Graphics and Sound
Burnout Dominator showcases impressive graphics for its time, with detailed car models, vibrant environments, and smooth animations. The game’s soundtrack features a mix of licensed rock and electronic music that perfectly complements the high-octane gameplay.
Multiplayer
While the PlayStation 2 version of Burnout Dominator lacks online multiplayer, the PlayStation Portable version features Burnout HQ, an online mode where players can upload their scores, download new tracks, and compete against others.
Reception
Burnout Dominator received generally positive reviews upon release. Critics praised the game’s intense racing gameplay, new game modes, and improved graphics. However, some reviewers criticized the lack of online multiplayer on the PlayStation 2 version and the removal of certain features from previous Burnout games, such as Crash Mode.
Legacy
Burnout Dominator is remembered as a solid entry in the Burnout series, offering a thrilling and challenging racing experience. The game’s focus on chaining Burnouts and the introduction of new game modes helped to keep the series fresh and engaging.
While Burnout Dominator may not be as well-known as some of its predecessors, it remains a worthy addition to the Burnout legacy and a fun and adrenaline-pumping racing game in its own right.
Conclusion
Burnout Dominator is a high-octane racing game that delivers an exhilarating and intense experience. With its focus on chaining Burnouts, new game modes, and a variety of tracks, the game challenges players to push their limits and master the art of Burnout racing. Whether you’re a seasoned Burnout veteran or a newcomer to the series, Burnout Dominator is sure to provide hours of adrenaline-fueled entertainment.
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
