Reviewed
06.13.2000
Publisher
Sega
Developer
Genki
Format
CD
Origin
Import/Domestic
Available
Oct.
27, 1995 (Japan)
1995
(USA)
Exclusive
Yes
Difficulty
Adjustable
Dimensions
3D
View
1st/3rd
Person
Genre
Arcade/Racer
Players
1
Options
3D
Pad
Arcade
Racer
Backup
30
Requires
n/a
Importable
99% |
INTRO:
> Remember Hang-On for arcade/Master System and Super Hang-On for arcade/Genesis?
Well, the series does indeed continue with a Saturn iteration known as
Hang-On GP. The premise remains the same -- race on closed circuits
in an attempt to beat the timer and place first. Of course, the Saturn
brings the series into dual 32-bit splendor. If you like this genre,
then I suggest you check out Manx TT SuperBike
too.
> If you're interested in this title and having trouble finding it, then
why not try the import version. It's highly importable as this game
is purely arcade. Also, the Japanese version is mainly English.
GRAPHICS:
> I must say, "for a system that can't do 3D", the Saturn burns through
this 3D racer with power to spare. Hang-On GP's courses are richly
detailed plus they animate smoothly and quickly. The locales are
seaside, mountainous, and cityscape. Your view of the action is great
with a choice of high, normal, and rider (1st person). I especially
like the rider view (see pix below) as it provides the most convincing
experience. The various bikes are modeled nicely, and detailed with
various colors and logos. Actually, I can't think of anything about
the graphics that is lacking.
CONTROL:
> This is the most important part of the game and (unfortunately) it's
not going to appeal to everyone. The controls are arcade all the
way and the option to use drifting is given, though I don't like it (seems
to slow you down too much). I think the game controls good with a
Saturn pad, but the Arcade Racer is preferred. Either way, a little
learning curve is needed to fully appreciate the way these bikes handle.
The 3D Pad is supported too, but not to my expectations as the steering
becomes too sensitive. Anyway, aside from the expected buttons, you
also get left/right weight buttons for leaning into sharp corners.
SOUND:
> Hang-On GP's soundtrack is lacking. It's very arcade-like, but
not up to Sega standards or even close to Super Hang-On. Still, I
didn't think it was bad enough to hamper my enjoyment of the game.
> The sound effects are basic. You'll hear a cheesy motor whine,
some voice, passing bikes, wipe outs, and a few others. It's acceptable,
but could have been better.
FUN:
> You get short and long versions of three courses for a total of six.
You can ride on ten different bikes which are rated in four categories.
This one player title offers GP Race, Time Trial, and Endurance (must
be earned) modes. If you liked the prequels, you'll probably have
fun with this game. It doesn't offer much depth, rather solid arcade
bike racing.
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