For anyone interested in fast, skill-based arcade racing that does not rely on gimmicky powerups, this game is heaven.
For starters, this game is a straightforward arcade racer without any wacky powerups except boost, which allows you to pilot faster through the track and even hop your boat slightly into the air. You can pick one of 9 different boats after you have unlocked them all, and race on one of 8 different tracks, again after you have unlocked them all, in one of 4 different single-player game modes. Unlocking things is easy in this game and only requires you to come in at 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place in order to obtain credits, which automatically allow you to unlock boats, tracks, and new single-player modes after you have acquired a pre-set amount.
The single-player game allows you to choose from several different modes, including race (straightforward competition against 15 other AI controlled boats), ring master (follow a set path through the track by going through specific rings), gauntlet (basically a time-trial mode, but with exploding barrels), or championship (several different tracks must be completed in a row, often in various modes). Of these modes, only race can be played online or in split-screen, and let me tell you, the competition is fierce! Make sure you practice each of the tracks before going online or you will be in for a painful lesson in pwnage!
I must admit, I find it difficult to truly fault this game in any way based on the fact that it accomplished exactly what it sets out to do: Provide a fast, simple, yet skillful racing game with an aquatic theme. Having played the original Hydro Thunder in arcades and on Dreamcast, I can tell you with authority that this is not a remake, but rather a very well-made sequel that changes none of the core elements of the original, yet enhances all of them, creating a fantastic arcade racer that forces players to use skill instead of cheap powerups in order to win.
Having already praised this game, I can do little else in this review than reiterate how fantastic Hydro Thunder Hurricane is. For anyone interested in fast, skill-based arcade racing that does not rely on gimmicky powerups, this game is pure heaven. So what are you waiting for? Play the demo on Xbox Live Arcade now and see for yourself how fun this game is!