Ridge Racer 3D is currently the only game that I have played in the series so far. When I was about to play Ridge Racer 3D, I wasn't sure what to expect really. However, I'm glad to announce that it is a very enjoyable game with enough replayability and charm to last you a long time.
Let's just get this out of the way now, there is no storyline of any kind to be found here. The game sticks to good old arcade racing, and it does it so well. Upon starting a new save file, you will be presented with some modes including standard race, grand prix (which acts as the main mode), quick tour and six other unique ways to play. Unfortunately, there is no online play, so you'll have to rely on streetpass duels, but honestly, you'll be left wanting more. Gameplay wise, the game really shines. Each fictional car controls really well, sticking to the road well and being able to move in any direction effortlessly. The best part about the driving is by far the drifting, every time you approach a corner you can hold the acceleration button to navigate around a bend without worrying about slowing down. Doing this is essential, as it can fill up your boost meter.
The boost meter is split into three tiers. The first part is a normal variant of boost, the second is double nitrous and the third is an even faster variant of double nitrous. Once activated, the screen will go blurry and you'll achieve a dangerous speed. Graphically, the game is nothing short of impressive, especially for a launch title. Car models, tracks and environments all look great, and textures do not disappoint either. Not only that, but the game stays at a steady frame rate for most of the time. The only time you will get lag is when you activate nitrous, but even then it's barely noticeable and will not affect your game. Each track in the game is just wonderful, and completely different to what you have experienced in any racing game. You could be driving under the wing of a passenger plane one minute and taking a trip through an underground aquarium the next. Playing through the tracks with the 3D turned on is a must.
No track ever feels the same, as they are all very different compared to each other, and because of this, the game feels fresh. The cars in the game are fantastic, but there aren't many individual models for each one. There are 4 different types of 'machines' as they are called in-game, and they have different looks and are either faster or slower than each other. For example, category four and three cars are suited for easier, slower races while two and one are more difficult and faster. Problem is, there are total of, about, 12 cars, the other ones are just the same ones that appeared in the lower categories but with new accessories and a better engine. However it's not a big issue and it won't bother you too much. In most games I play, the music plays a rather large role, as it can set the mood for a certain situation, but here I almost forget that there is any music. I'm not saying it's bad, but I rarely hear it when I'm playing, and I find that to be a shame as most racers that I play have some catchy tunes that help me focus when trying to reach first place.
The biggest gripe I have with the game is the lack of online modes. You cannot join lobbies and race with strangers or view any online leaderboards. The closest thing you can get to this is streetpass duels which I mentioned previously, but honestly it's one of the weaker modes, mainly because most people I met didn't own the game. There is something that more than makes up for this fault though, the customization. It is wild to say the least, you can apply new colours ranging from different tones, add templates, adjust the amount of nitrous you want and you can even change the drift type. The absolute best thing about this game is the sheer amount of replay value. There are dozens of tournament races and tracks to try out that you'll be playing it for weeks, maybe even months.
Ridge Racer 3D is a superb racing game. The amazing visuals, the tight controls, the fun mechanics, the customization, the atmosphere, the tracks and the surprising amount of things to do will keep you satisfied for a very long time. It proves to be one of the better launch games for the 3DS and it is definitely worth a purchase.