Wipeout Pulse

I was scared to play this game. Remember how good and cool Knightrider was when you were a kid (providing you're old enough)? Well if you've watched it recently, like I have, then your memories will be crushed and ruined. That's what I was afraid of here. I was worried one of my favourite games from many moons ago would have been abused and misused (*cough* Sonic *cough*).

Wipeout since its original release has been regarded somewhat hit and miss. Thankfully Wipeout Pulse is nearer hit than miss. The graphics look good and the gameplay is very smooth. With smart menus and a perfectly suited sound track, it certainly is very polished. It has been made purposely for the PSP with care rather than an afterthought like a lot of publishers seem to do these days with PSP games.

The actual racing is fun, challenging and addictive. Trying to find a balance between racing and attacking with weapons is the tricky part. What is more delightful than stealing a win on the last bend using a homing missile? Doing it against a mate in the multiplayer game!! And if you gloat as much as I do then their annoyance will only add to your uncontrollable cackling laugh of victory.

Personally I would like to see a few more tracks. Once you are finished the only option left is the time trials. While I’m sure a lot of people will happily persist with these, I missed the battles with weapons and became quickly disinterested. But there are many downloads available from the website and the PSN store which increase its longevity.

If the developing team can make it look this sleek and polished on PSP then I eagerly await to see what they can do with the new Wipeout HD expansion pack due out in September. This is a definite must for PSP owners, especially the racing fans amongst you.

Score: 7/10