This nex-gen racer combines the unique play style of the PGR series with updated graphics and online features. Enjoyable
Graphics:
Fast paced and slick are great descriptors of the graphics in the game. The modeling detail on the cars sets a new standard for the racing genre. From the smallest detail, such as manufacturer's emblems on the rims, to the reflections on the freshly waxed paint as the car is flying through the city, this game delivers the eye candy. All though it packs all these details, shaders, and lighting into the graphics engine, it does not end up looking like gaudy like the NFS series has become.
I have not experienced one slow down or other graphical error that usually plagues launch games. This game was not rushed and it shows. The tracks are wonderfully detailed. I always see something new every time I run a track, they are just packed with goodies to look at. The crowds add another level of realism to the game as well. It actually feels like I am driving this car at breakneck speeds down an urban city race track. The graphics can be seen in all their glory in the walk around garage mode. This mode lets the player assume the first person perspective and casually stroll throughout the garage and view the cars stock piled throughout the game. Has to be seen to believe.
Game play:
Like the previous games in the series, it is hard to stick a descriptor on the type of racer this game is. It is not a pure simulation but it is definitely not a full blown arcade game. It combines the best of both genres to produce are fun game that anyone can enjoy. The simulation fan will appreciate the car model detail and great in game physics while the arcade junky will love the kudos system and fast paced action.
What sets this game a part from others is the Kudos system. When engaged in a race the player gets rewarded with Kudos after performing "style" maneuvers such as drifting, drafting, and getting on two wheels. The move "tricks" that can be strung together the more Kudos are rewarded. The faster or more daring tricks are also rewarded with a higher level of Kudos. These add up throughout the race, are tallied at end, and added to the player's overall career Kudos score. These can be compared to other players all over the world through Xbox live. The higher the Kudos the player has the more features are unlocked.
The career mode of this game is feature packed and doesn't get repetitive like a lot of racers these days. It is set up as a series of trophy cup races. Each individual race has 5 difficulty levels with increasing credits awarded. Once all the races in a cup series is won a trophy is awarded along with credits used to buy more cars for use in career mode. The types of races are extremely diverse. They range from standard race against AI races to cone challenges to speed trap races. There are over 10 different race styles and all are very unique.
A great part about this game is the after release support the developers are giving to it. It is constantly updated with new patches and content packs have been released. So far two have been put on the market place, they are call Style and Speed. Each give around 10 new cars are cost 5 dollars to download.
Sound:
The sound in this game is incredible. To truly experience this game to it's full potential a surround sound system is needed. The engine sounds are spot on as are the ambiance sounds. The crowd can even be heard while flying by at crazy speeds! What really sets this game apart from other racers is the incredible soundtrack. From well known techno Djs such as Aphex Twin to great rock songs, this game delivers! One great feature about the 360 is the option to play the user's own songs directly streamed from the user's computer. This system is integrated wonderfully in PGR3.
Overall:
This game provides 20+ hours of racing content and well over 40+ hours to get all modes unlocked. Combine that with the player matching and on line career mode for many many hours of great racing fun. This game is a must have for anyone picking up a Xbox 360. It is THE staple of 360 racing and arguably the best racer on consoles comparable to the GT series. The game is now getting down to the 30 dollar range which makes it even more enticing! Get this game!