HOT WHEELS UNLEASHED™ 2 - Turbocharged

Developer: Milestone S.r.l.
Release: Oct 19th 2023
Platforms:
Action
Adventure
Racing
Simulation
Sports
Nostalgic
Varied
Addictive
Rubberbanding
Grinding
HOT WHEELS UNLEASHED™ 2 - Turbocharged Poster

HOT WHEELS UNLEASHED™ 2 - Turbocharged Review

HOT WHEELS UNLEASHED™ 2 - Turbocharged offers a nostalgic arcade racing experience with a focus on toy car aesthetics and a large vehicle roster. The game features clean graphics and solid sound design, which many players appreciate. The campaign provides a decent amount of content, supplemented by multiple DLCs and expansion areas, although some expansions recycle tracks, leading to a repetitive feel. Multiplayer, while present, suffers from low player counts and matchmaking issues, resulting in long wait times and occasional disorientation on maps. The difficulty balance is inconsistent, with medium being too easy and hard or extreme modes feeling either frustrating or unmanageable. Additionally, the implementation of a jump mechanic has divided players, with some finding it detracts from pure racing enjoyment. Technical issues such as extreme rubber-banding and intrusive anti-cheat software have frustrated a segment of the community. Despite these drawbacks, the game remains enjoyable, especially on sale, and is recommended for fans of arcade racing and Hot Wheels collectors.

Highlights

Players praise the game's clean and appealing graphics, capturing the toy car vibe effectively. The sound design complements the racing experience well, enhancing immersion. The large roster of nearly 200 vehicles and diverse game modes provide variety. The campaign length is considered decent, offering a good amount of racing content. Many enjoy the arcade-style gameplay and the improved driving feel compared to the first installment. The game's nostalgic appeal and toy car aesthetics are standout elements that resonate with fans.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include severe rubber-banding issues during races, which disrupt gameplay. The jump mechanic is seen as an unnecessary gimmick that complicates tracks and detracts from core racing. Multiplayer is often described as dead or difficult to engage with due to matchmaking and map selection limitations. Difficulty settings lack balance, making some modes either too easy or unfairly hard. The repetitive nature of tracks and expansions leads to player fatigue. Additionally, intrusive anti-cheat software and long loading times frustrate users. The in-game economy and car acquisition through wheelspins are considered grind-heavy and unbalanced.

Pros

  • Clean and appealing graphics effectively capture toy car aesthetics.
  • Large roster of nearly 200 vehicles offers extensive variety.
  • Solid sound design enhances the immersive racing experience.
  • Decent campaign length with multiple game modes for variety.
  • Improved driving mechanics compared to the first game.
  • Nostalgic appeal resonates well with Hot Wheels fans.
  • Fun arcade-style racing suitable for casual players.

Cons

  • Severe rubber-banding issues negatively impact race quality.
  • Jump mechanic feels like an unnecessary and frustrating gimmick.
  • Multiplayer suffers from low population and poor matchmaking.
  • Difficulty settings are unbalanced and frustrating at times.
  • Repetitive tracks and expansions reduce long-term engagement.
  • Intrusive anti-cheat software causes technical frustrations.
  • Long loading times hinder smooth gameplay experience.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

The world’s raddest cars are back and taking the fun to the next level! Race over 130 vehicles with crazy new mechanics and even more vehicle types. Plus, build your tracks with stunning new environments and different game modes to have fun off and online!

Release Date Oct 19th 2023
Publisher Milestone S.r.l.
Developer Milestone S.r.l.
Platforms

User Reviews

Mostly Positive (405)
73% Positive 27% Negative