I knew after my WRC 8 review yesterday that I was going to tackle Wreckfest next. The two games couldn't be any more different. If WRC 8 were the Queen arriving at a posh banquet, Wreckfest would be a Monty Python character stumbling away, breaking things, in drag.
Right off the bat, Wreckfest lets you know that it doesn't take anything seriously. There are ridiculous "vehicles". Yes, you get to drive a lawnmower, a school bus, a caravan, or even a freaking sofa! As the title of the game suggest, demolition is a big part of the game, with several different modes built around basically beating the shit out of your competitors' cars. My favourite is the battle royale-sque last man standing event - always a great deal of fun, and rewards smart strategy and avoidance tactics.
However, at the same time, let the title not fool you - demolition-focused events are only a small part of the game. Most of the game is actually a dirt racing game with contact. Think of it like a souped-up Rallycross.
The vehicles in these modes are inspired by highly custom variants of real-world cars from the 60s to 80s. They are categorized into a bunch of classes, and are overall a great deal of fun. Don't expect too much in the way of variation for cars within the same class though.
Some of the dirt tracks are pretty cool, though it has its fair share of hybrid/asphalt routes too. The graphics aren't up with the best in the driving space - it's a lower budget game after all, but the level design is admirable. It is particularly clever in how certain tracks are designed to cater to destruction and mayhem even though it's a regular race.
Outside of the demolition events, even in the regular races, damage is a big part of the game. Contact is completely allowed, and in fact, encouraged. So, while the goal is to finish first, damaging your opponents usually is one of the methods used to get ahead. The damage physics are way over the top, even in the realistic mode, but that's a good thing. It's always hilarious to see how the damage affects vehicles. While at first it may seem like there's no rhyme or reason, the damage system has its own internal logic that you'll get to learn as you progress through the game.
But my favourite events, without a doubt, are the totally absurd special events, featuring a bizarre "vehicle", on a totally inappropriate setting, with a laughable objective. These are few and far between, but definitely liven things up between the regular races.
While I don't mind games being short, there's definitely a fair bit of repetition in the campaign. Whether it be tracks, vehicles, modes or even the music - the campaign does outstay its welcome. Still, there's never a dull moment with Wreckfest.
Wreckfest is highly recommended if you are looking for some mayhem to go with your driving.
