Tokyo Xtreme Racer: 3

Sometimes it's refreshing to see a game title where it defines everything it does on the tin. Tokyo Xtreme Racer: 3 speaks of what a curious gamer would be getting into. It's set in Tokyo, it's a racer of the 'extreme' caliber, and it's the third offering. Surely that means we are in for some intense, story-based, driving action that's only been improved upon?

The curious thing about Tokyo Xtreme Racer: 3 is that it only found release in Japan and a limited offering in North America. Perhaps this means the concept is a bit too niche for the rest of the world? It throws a spanner into the works. That being whether this racer is actually going to appeal to fans of the genre. We better find out.

Don't Cross the Provocative Secretary

Being a game developed and published in Japan, Tokyo Xtreme Racer: 3 is free to adopt all the stereotypical and generic elements that internal releases seem to have. Polished mechanics are forgotten in favor of telling an immersive story and highlighting innovations of gameplay.

This has rung true in the previous offerings of the franchise. It definitely is apparent in Tokyo Xtreme Racer: 3. Oddly, the traditional racing mechanics are not the core focus of gameplay - the narrative makes the center point. The writers have penned an intriguing story that pits you against all the other driving games in the Tokyo urban area - all with absolutely ridiculous names.

It's that decent narrative that might make you forget that the rest of the game is shaky at best. The driving mechanics are stiff, and control of cars can be frustrating. The visuals are a bit fuzzy and dreary. But actually, inadvertently add to the immersion factor of the game. At times there is something very zen about endlessly strolling down Tokyo's highway system.

If you took more of a general view on Tokyo Xtreme Racer: 3, it would not be the best of racers. The whole idea fixes on a story at the sacrifice of traditional mechanics. That will not please a lot of people. The upgrade system is near useless, the driving is challenging, and the translations are downright comical at times. Still, the uniqueness of the game has a lot of potentials to drag you in.

It's OK Not To Be Xtreme

Tokyo Xtreme Racer: 3, while different than your typical racer, isn't the most extreme game you'll play. Given that it's so narrative-heavy, it actually plays more relaxed. Yes, it feels pretty broken in nearly every aspect of the game apart from the storyline. However, there is a charm to this game. It could easily pull any player in for a significant amount of time.

Pros:

• There is a unique charm to the gameplay
• Excellent story that brings a twist on traditional racing games
• Visuals, although questionable in areas, contribute to the immersion factor

Cons:

• Cars don't handle well
• Racing mechanics are put aside in favor of the storyline
• The North American version of the game has glitches