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Developer: Codemasters
Publisher: Codemasters
Genre: Racing
Region: NTSC
Format:
Release Date: 12 May 08
User Rating
8 (3 votes) -
More Screens (5 total)
Overview
Gameplay
Seeing how good the graphics look, let's see how Jarett and LaBonte plays. On first impression, one might argue that the game is nothing more than a TOCA with a different name. While in some aspects that might be true, the game has some of the most impressive car physics and damage system in racing games. If you're not careful, you can end up with a banged-up car even before the first lap.
The game also features impressive opponent AI. The other cars will do anything they can to win, and that means taking your car out of the action. They will nudge you off the road, or rams straight at your rear end. While it might frustrate you, you will learn to use the same 'dirty' tactics on them as you attempt to master the cources and win races.
Jarrett and LaBonte boosts quite a few game modes that you can play. There is the Championship mode, where you race as either Jarett or LaBonte in a series of ladder races. This mode features the famous tracks in the world, with Laguna Seca, Monza and Silverstone as some of the attractions. You'll also get bonus cars with every win, and maybe offers from competing teams, depending on your overall performance.Other game modes include the Free Race, Time Trial and Quick Race.
What about the cars, you asked? Well, Jarett and LaBonte showcases over 40 different and impressively detailed cars for your racing pleasures. Choose from the Audi TT, Mitsibishi FTO, Mustang GT, Lutus 340R or Crystler 340. There are also secret cars that will be unlocked when you win the races.
Graphics
Following the traditions of Codemasters' TOCA series, Jarrett and LaBonte shows off impressive graphics. The cars are well detailed, and you can recognise the model straight away. What makes Jarett and LaBonte a unique proposition is the graphical representation of the damage system. The hood might fly right off your window, and your bumper might get smashed up. The attention the the most mundane and often ignored details is what makes this game a little bit different from the others.
However, the game also inherits the same problems as other racing titles. The scenery, while more varied than in the TOCA series, are prone to annoying popups. While this doesn't detract from the gameplay, it's something you wished the developers would have solved before shipping out the game. Well, maybe they'll do a better job with those nasty popups in the sequel (?).
Fun Factor
Jarrett and LaBonte is certainly a fun game. You'll spend hours learning the tracks and tinkering with the car customisation system. While this doesn't compare to Gran Turismo's customisation feature, Codemasters have simplified things, with explaination given for every option and parts. The multiplayer mode also supports up to 4 players, which means 4 of your friends can join in the frantic action.
Overall
Overall this is one of the better racing games in the market. If you're looking for an alternative to all those GT and TOCA racing, Jarett and Labonte might just be the game for you.
- Gameplay
8.0 - Graphics
8.0 - Fun Factor
8.0 - Overall
8.0
