Common Sense Note
Parents need to know this is a straightforward racing game. An aggressive driving style is required here, unlike some of the more authentic racing simulators. The game is playable online, a feature Common Sense Media doesn't recommend for kids under age 12. Parents of new teen drivers might want to consider a recent study which suggests that playing some racing games can increase one's willingness to take risks while driving in real life.
Families can talk about the racing genre. What's more enjoyable: An authentic racing simulator or one that's more accessible and arcade-like? Do you think there is a connection between playing racing games and driving more aggressively in real life?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Brett Molina
Publisher Codemasters rolls out the freshest model in the racing genre with GRID, a solid speedfest that fails to deliver enough originality or intensity to keep up with established simulators. You'll enter the career mode known as GRID World as a rookie with only a 1970 Ford Mustang. After volunteering your driving services in a series of events, you can bolster your reputation and pocketbook enough to earn Rookie credentials and cash to start your own racing team.
You'll navigate the career mode by competing in events in the U.S., Europe, and Japan. As you score more wins, you'll gain more licenses and eventually advance to an elite international league. Car selection is rather limited, leaving you with only 45 choices. Events range from standard races to drift challenges and demolition derbies. You can also compete in these events online.
GRID straddles the line between authentic simulator and laid-back, easy to play racer. Cars sparkle as they speed down the tracks. Crew chiefs encourage you as you navigate sharp turns. Your vehicle will pull right if you slam your right front tire into a wall. However, the Flashback feature is where the realism ends. If you wreck your car, you can choose to rewind a few seconds to an earlier point instead of restarting the race. Also, cars feel much lighter when it comes to handling. Brakes are used rarely, as cars can often coast into turns without the need to slow down. GRID's greatest fault is it's too average. For every positive you consider, you can find a current racing title that does it better.
Fans seeking a more authentic racing experience should try Forza Motorsport 2 or Gran Turismo 5 Prologue. Also worth trying is Burnout Paradise. Younger gamers should consider Mario Kart Wii.
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ViolenceMost races require drivers to navigate the tracks aggressively in order to win. Often, that means slamming or bumping cars to gain an advantage. However, you're not rewarded for wreaking havoc on the track. In fact, some race rules include penalties for touching an opposing driver's vehicle. |
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CommercialismPlenty of automakers and companies affiliated with the auto industry were visible, including Chevy, Ford, and Toyota. |
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