Reviewed
09.19.1999
Publisher
Midway
Developer
Eurocom
Format
GD
Origin
Import/Domestic
Available
?1999
(Japan)
Sep
9, 1999 (USA)
Exclusive
No
Difficulty
Hard
Dimensions
3D
View
1st/3rd
Person
Genre
Arcade/Racer
Players
1-2
Options
Backup
8
Racing
Wheel
Rumble
VMS
Requires
n/a
Importable
99% |
INTRO:
> Midway has been in the arcade scene for a long time and Hydro Thunder
is one heck of a great game for a coin-muncher. It's a fast-paced
racer in speed boats through somewhat complicated courses complete with
a timer, short-cuts and power-ups. Bonus tracks and boats are yours
to earn as well while competing in a field of 16.
GRAPHICS:
> I've played the arcade version and I am pleased to report that the Dreamcast
conversion remains completely faithful to the original. Ultra-smooth
motion, high speeds (especially while using turbo), gorgeous locales and
well thought out courses make for a graphic tour de force for Dreamcast.
Some of the many effects you'll be treated to include reflections, wake
spray, sun flare, realistic waves and awesome waterfalls. There are
three views to choose from: front, behind, and bird's eye.
CONTROL:
> The controls are basic: accel, brake, steering, camera, and boost.
The standard analog pad works very well and the Sega Racing Wheel is supported
too. During each race you'll face off against 15 opponents in an
effort to reach the checkpoints in time and ultimately place high enough
to clear the given course. It will take some practice to get good
at this game as there are plenty of jumps (usually needed to get power-boosts),
short-cuts, huge drop offs and plenty of rivals to knock you off course.
You can return the favor by ramming opponents while using the boost.
SOUND:
> The music is fast paced pop-rock which has arcade written all over it.
There's an option to set its volume as well.
> The sound effects are very good and straight out of the arcade version.
You'll hear clashing boats, voice cues, roaring engines, turbo deceleration
and more...
FUN:
> There are 3 Easy tracks immediately available and 10 others to earn (3
Medium, 3 Hard and 4 Bonus). Add 3 selectable boats and more than
6 to earn for a decent amount of variety. The 2 player split screen
mode is a bit slower, but it retains the smoothness and much of the detail
of the one player mode. Other than the 1 or 2 player Arcade modes
and the hidden stuff, there isn't much else to do in Hydro Thunder.
However, it's a great game to just pick up and play...
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