Reviewed
11.11.2000
Publisher
Infogrames
Developer
Melbourne
House
Format
GD
Origin
Import/Domestic
Available
Nov.
2, 2000 (EUR)
Nov.
9, 2000 (USA)
Exclusive
No
Difficulty
Adjustable
Dimensions
3D
View
1st/3rd
Person
Genre
Sim/Racer
Players
1-4
Options
Backup
13
Racing
Wheel
Rumble
VGA
Box
Requires
n/a
Importable
100% |
INTRO:
> Don't even think this game is anything like "Test Drive 6"... As
of Test Drive V-Rally, the
Test Drive series has been rejuvenated. Now, with the advent of Test
Drive Le Mans, it's been totally redefined! Kudos to Infogrames for
giving Melbourne House the freedom to program this game from the ground
up, instead of doing a quick port. The end result is astonishing,
as you'll see...
> If you haven't already guessed, this game is based on the famous race
in France, known as 24 Hour Le Mans. Infogrames went all the way
with a fully licensed game! Your objective is to compete in various
modes, on numerous real tracks, place in first, and thereby unlock new
tracks and cars.
GRAPHICS:
> First of all, the screen shots below, and on the Pix and Preview pages
are all in-game -- no cut-scenes! If they look good here, trust me,
they look much better in person, especially using a VGA Box. The
graphics aren't merely detailed to the nth degree, they move ultra smooth,
with no draw-in, and no slowdown whatsoever! When comparing Suzuka-short,
amazingly enough, Le Mans actually looks slightly better than F355
Challenge (it's very close though). The car models are excellent,
with plenty of curved lines. All this eye candy looks great from
any of the four selectable views: behind, behind/above, hood ornament,
and driver.
> If you like effects, then you've come to the right place. Headlights
look as real as ever, as does the rain and lens flares. Car reflections
are dynamic and realistic. Top that off with realistic tire smoke,
rain spray, and tailpipe flares!
CONTROL:
> Mint. This game is for those who aspire to perform in F355 Challenge,
but prefer a little more arcade in their controller. Standard controls
include steering, accel, brake, gear up/down, reverse, view, and look behind.
The Racing Wheel is compatible and affords the most realistic experience.
I have no complaints at all, as your car does exactly what you input to
the controller.
SOUND:
> I'm pleased to report that all volume levels are adjustable. Nonetheless,
great hard rockin' tunes are available for those who wish to hear them.
The sound effects are what really matters though. You'll hear various
engine revs, skidding, as well as realistic environmental effects.
For me, sound effects (sans the music) are the preferred way to race, unless
I'm playing Daytona USA.
FUN:
> Choose from Quick Race, Championship (8 multi race classes), Le Mans
(progressively longer races), Multiplayer, and Time Trial (with/without
ghost car) modes! Before taking the wheel you can usually adjust
the race duration, tire wear, fuel usage, and weather. The thing
that really keeps you going is the fact that for most races you win (in
any mode), you're awarded new cars and/or tracks! What can I say,
this game is hot and fun!
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