Circuit Superstars

Circuit Superstars is a new spin on classic racers, putting players behind the wheel of a car – although from a top-down perspective – and putting them through some incredibly accurate racing action. And a lot of that appeal stems from the short laps, the relatively quick races, and the fact that you'll return time and time again as you try to discover better lines and shave milliseconds off your personal bests.

Circuit Superstars is a treat to look at, having a really interesting, incredibly exciting graphic aesthetic. Drivers and vehicles are both cartoonish, and while you'll seldom see the former – in fact, only when they stand on the end of a racing podium – the cars are the main attraction.

Features of Circuit Superstars

Circuit Superstars includes everything from small Piccino Cup racing, through the Caterham-styled Superlights, up to the power of the Eurotrucks, and into the Muscle Cars. Squished down, non-licensed reproductions of real-world engines, with livery customizations allowed if you so choose. When you go into the realm of the Super Truck, Rally machines (and yes, there are certain courses that include portions of off-road racing), 50s GT and regular GT models, Prototypes, and eventually the triple-header of GP racing – 1960s, 1980s, and contemporary day – things grow quicker – but no more serious.

Cars, cars and cars

Each of these vehicles handles differently as well, with some keeping their line flawlessly when you nail an apex, others spinning up the back wheels without a concern, and yet others requiring a drifting license to achieve any sort of control. Obviously, the trucks drive with greater variation, but each class has its own distinct little style that assures you'll never get tired of what they enable.

Strategic racing

Damage, tyre wear, and fuel consumption must all be checked throughout longer races. Similar to the way F1 2021 handles tyre management. A trip to the pit lane is normally necessary after a 12-lap race. When you pull off the main track, you'll notice pit workers for each competitor waiting for their driver before it's up to you to properly align within your box. The crew then gets right to work, changing tyres, refueling, and elevating the truck. It's simply one of the cutest pit animations you'll ever see - but, like the rest of the game, it's just a pretty face for some serious pit strategy, especially when racing online.

While the racing in Circuit Superstars is enjoyable, the time trials are one of the game's highlights. Hotlapping the tracks is sheer genius. As a more arcade racer, there are several ways to approach the bends, and perfecting a full lap is nearly difficult. Another arcade racer you might want to check out is Trackmania as it features some zany tracks to race on.

Verdict

Circuit Superstars is the ideal pick-up-and-play racer. There isn't much of a career mode to speak of, but the AI is difficult to beat and hence always enjoyable to race against. The greatest way to enjoy this game is with friends. It begs for group play, much like a Mario Kart 64-style title, to properly enjoy the contact-filled races and difficult to learn mechanics.

Pros

• Fun tracks
• Interesting gameplay

Cons

• Occassionally overwhelming management system