Gaming Target - Game Boy: Star Wars Episode I: Racer

Written by Matt Swider on June 22, 2000

Review: Will this Star Wars game finally help the GBC in the racing genre?

Every aspect of Star Wars has been huge, and the series has almost been everywhere. It has produced three games for N64 so far, and numerous SNES and Game Boy games. The last Star Wars game for N64 was Racer, a game with tremendous speeds. Now that Nintendo gave GBC a crack at the game, everything its the same as the N64 version..

The visuals are different, original, and navigatable all at the same time. The game has an over-the-top view, like many of those classic shooters we always liked to play. Since you can't see down the course way, you may shout out, "where the hell am I going..." until you notice those helpful arrows can actually help you turn the right direction. Although the pods are small on the screen, and what isn't with GBC, the view is original and works for a racer.

As for the controls, they will vary depending on which pod you choose to race as. This feature also is demonstrated in the N64 version as well. You will notice the difference when you turn with certain pods. Some turn sharply, while others feel more loose riding around the corners. Overall the controls through the game are simple, but they also accurately fit the game at the same time.

The audio lacks, like most other GBC games to date. Sparse, annoying, and silent usually describe the sound content is most GBC games, and SW1 Racer is no exception. Annoying fits the sound effects from the engines, yet you can't turn it down because you will need the warning signal beep if you pod receives too much damage or if its overheated. One question...am I being punished here?

Was I satisfied with what Racer presented? Well, the game is not without its flaws, but what game is...? If you want a decent GBC racer to give you 100% satisfaction, look no further because you probably won't find any. Ok, so the game may not complete this GBC genre, but it comes a hell of a lot closer then most have before.

The replay in Racer isn't one of the high points, but the game is worth another race through before it starts to collect dust like most other games. Although, this game is fun for a while, especially with two-player link, you will eventually get bored quickly.