Summary
- Release Year: 1990
- Genres: Racing, Shooter
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, Nintendo Entertainment System, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Magnetic Fields
- Publishers: Gremlin Graphics Software Ltd.
Super Cars (1990): A Top-Down Racing Classic
Super Cars is a top-down racing game released in 1990 by Gremlin Interactive. It’s a classic example of the genre, with simple but addictive gameplay, colorful graphics, and a variety of tracks to race on.
Gameplay
The goal of Super Cars is to finish in the top three in each race in order to progress. There are four difficulty levels, each with nine tracks. The tracks can be raced in any order, but the last track you race is made harder than usual.
In the races, you win money which can be spent on temporary handling and power upgrades, plus armor plating and front/rear shooting missiles that can knock out other racers. The player must finish in the top three of each race to progress – initially there are four computer opponents, but more are added as you progress through the game.
Cars and Upgrades
The player can choose from a variety of cars, each with different stats. The cars can be upgraded throughout the game via the shop section. The player is given an initial price, but also a number of options of things to say to the salesman – with the right combination, the price will drop.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in Super Cars are colorful and well-detailed for the time. The tracks are varied and interesting, and the cars are well-animated. The sound effects are simple but effective, and the music is catchy and upbeat.
Legacy
Super Cars was a critical and commercial success, and it’s still considered one of the best top-down racing games ever made. It’s been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, and it’s still available to purchase and play today.
Review
Super Cars is a classic top-down racing game that’s still a lot of fun to play today. It’s got great graphics, challenging tracks, and plenty of replayability. If you’re a fan of racing games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Super Cars.
Score: 8/10
Tips for Playing Super Cars
- Learn the tracks. The best way to improve your lap times is to learn the tracks inside and out. Pay attention to the layout of each track and the location of the obstacles.
- Use your upgrades wisely. The upgrades you can purchase in the shop can give you a significant advantage in the races. Use them wisely to improve your car’s handling, power, and durability.
- Don’t be afraid to use your weapons. The missiles and armor plating you can purchase can be very effective in taking out your opponents. Use them strategically to give yourself an edge in the races.
- Practice makes perfect. The more you play Super Cars, the better you’ll become at it. So practice as much as you can and you’ll soon be able to beat the game on the hardest difficulty level.
Conclusion
Super Cars is a classic top-down racing game that’s still a lot of fun to play today. It’s got great graphics, challenging tracks, and plenty of replayability. If you’re a fan of racing games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Super Cars.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
