Ridge Racer is an
arcade franchise that needs little introduction. Ridge RacerDS is the latest title
in the series and, being one of NAMCO’s first projects for the system, it comes with
much promise coupled with expectation.
 The gameplay is first class – although
the heavy difficulty curve may make the game a little repetitive - which gets a little frustrating when you are stuck
on one race for hours on end. Also the collision detection is appalling; rear-ending the
car in front will cause you to fly miles backwards and the AI opponents generally like to
hog the lanes, often making overtaking a chore. There aren’t a very large number of
different tracks and cars, but those featured are reminiscent of both the first arcade
title and also Ridge Racer64 – basic tracks, expansions, and mirror tracks.
The Wi-Fi multiplayer is excellent. Presenting both single card and multicard play, with
the only difference being that on single card you cannot use the cars you have been able
to unlock as you progress through the game. Obviously, the key to the title being a
NintendoDS release is the Touch Screen control. Whilst most players will begin with the
default D-Pad configuration, using the Stylus to steer will become more than a mere
addiction after three of four attempts to get used to the new style of control. Using the
Thumb Strap takes far more getting used to, and is certainly tuned for the hardcore
amongst us.
I’ve heard numerous
objections about the graphical quality in Ridge RacerDS, and I must say that I am
quite surprised. I’d say that the visuals sported by the title are quite astonishing
when you consider that this is a handheld console. The cars are modelled crisply and the
title never drops polygons nor speed. Being new to the Ridge Racer series the
common-Ridge Racer feel is a new experience for me, however I quickly realized that
the beautifully detailed environments are top class. The beautiful lighting effects, along
with gorgeous settings make great viewing. Overall, Ridge Racer DS is by far one of
the most graphically talented titles we’ve seen on the NintendoDS yet, but not nearly
as good as Metroid Prime: Hunters.
I found myself quite fond of
the Audio presentation in Ridge Racer DS. Although the background music may seem
non-existent due to the loud engine effects, it adds an overall nice atmosphere. Ridge
RacerDS certainly tries to compliment its base platform’s versatility; from tires
screeching, to rubber burning, NAMCO has brought a stable version of the arcade’s
effects to the NintendoDS, if not quite as fluid.
As far as racing titles and
Nintendo’s innovative new handheld go, I can’t  see many titles offering more than Ridge
RacerDS manages. With the technology not lending itself to racing titles entirely, it
seems that NAMCO have brought a beloved franchise to the system with the basic principle
of the NintendoDS in mind – originality. It may not be an original title, but is
certainly an original Ridge Racer.
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