Old School Rally

Old School Rally is a charming indie rally racing game that captures the nostalgic vibe of early Colin McRae and Sega Rally titles with a distinct PS1-era visual style. Developed by a small team, it offers a fun arcade-like experience rather than realistic simulation, appealing to fans of classic rally games. The game features a variety of historical rally cars, local multiplayer, and a customizable livery workshop, enhancing player engagement. The gameplay is accessible with forgiving physics, making it suitable for both casual players and rally enthusiasts seeking a laid-back experience. The soundtrack and retro aesthetic contribute positively to the overall atmosphere.

However, some players note issues such as inconsistent handling, collision detection quirks, and pacing note timing that could be improved. The game is priced affordably and runs well on modest hardware including the Steam Deck, though some desire more content like additional tracks and online multiplayer. Despite minor bugs and design limitations, Old School Rally is widely regarded as a delightful throwback with solid replayability and charm.

Highlights

Players praise the game's nostalgic PS1-style graphics and retro aesthetic that faithfully evoke classic rally games like Colin McRae Rally and Sega Rally. The arcade-style, forgiving physics and diverse car roster give each vehicle a unique feel, enhancing gameplay enjoyment. The local multiplayer mode and customizable liveries via the Steam Workshop add to its replay value. The soundtrack is frequently described as "banging" and fitting the game's energetic vibe. Many appreciate the game's smooth performance even on low-end systems and handheld devices like the Steam Deck. Overall, the game offers a fun, pick-up-and-play rally experience with a strong nostalgic appeal.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the game's inconsistent and sometimes frustrating handling mechanics, with cars feeling overly tight or floaty, and occasional abrupt car behavior during turns. Collision detection is often reported as baffling, where minor contacts cause disproportionate damage, leading to player frustration. The co-driver's pacenotes timing is seen as late or imprecise, detracting from immersion. Some players find the tracks too wide and lacking challenge or danger, reducing the sense of thrill. Additionally, the absence of online multiplayer and limited content variety are noted as areas for improvement. Minor bugs such as texture glitches and sound issues also affect the experience for some users.