RC De Go Hands-On

Primed to be the third RC game released in the US in recent months, Taito's RC de GO takes a markedly different approach to the genre. And quite a refreshing approach it is. Mimicking the control scheme of an actual RC transmitter, RC de GO fully utilizes the PlayStation Dual Shock controller's analog sticks, mapping acceleration and braking functions to one stick, while leaving steering for the other. The effect, while sounding overly sim-like and difficult to grasp - and, granted, it is a bit challenging - actually lends itself well to the fast-paced, arcade-like experience that RC de GO is going for. The game, in fact, draws many comparisons to the NES gem of yore, RC Pro Am.

RC de GO, at this point, looks and plays rather well. Action on the game's 14 tracks is captured through a series of fixed camera angles, whose transitions smoothly concur with the progress of the cars moving through them in a manner very reminiscent of RC Pro Am. Standard paved tracks and off-road courses are available for play, and each type has vehicles suited to its traversal.

The game's modes are fairly standard: a single-race mode, a championship mode, and a series of time-trials. The championship mode offers the most compelling experience, as it allows you to let a custom-built racer loose upon the game's tracks. Each race earns you money, which you can use to upgrade your car's individual systems, as per the standard customization formula.

It must be noted that, in its current form, RC de GO displays a fine level of graphical polish. Car models are sharp, detailed, and functional, while the animate tracks are replete with cool elements such as ramps, dives, and puddles.

RC de GO looks ready for release, and, frankly, we can't wait to see it come out. Set to fly out of the gates later this month, RC de GO should be a pleasant, understated little surprise. Look for our full review later this month.