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MONSTER

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged
Item: Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2023

GenresSimulation, Sports, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing

AvailableOct 19, 2023

PlatformXbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

DeveloperMilestone S.r.l

Overview

The world’s raddest cars are back and taking the fun to the next level! Race over 130 vehicles with crazy new mechanics and even more vehicle types. Plus, build your tracks with stunning new environments and different game modes to have fun off and online!

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics have mixed feelings about the story in Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged. Some like the action-packed narrative and engaging gameplay elements, but most criticize it for being forgettable, uninspiring, and aimed at a younger audience. Issues with cutscenes, voice acting, and lack of relevance to the game contribute to the overall underwhelming consensus.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

77%

Negative (0-49)

15%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged are varied. Some critics, such as Digital Trends and SomosXbox, find positives in the story mode. Digital Trends mentions a "Terrible Creature Rampage" story, which suggests an exciting and action-packed narrative. SomosXbox highlights the unique challenges and hazards in each zone, indicating that the story provides engaging gameplay elements. However, the majority of critics express negative opinions about the story mode. GAMINGbible, Game Rant, GameGrin, Gamereactor UK, Gfinity, Press Start Australia, Game Informer, God is a Geek, XboxEra, Hey Poor Player, and TRG all criticize the story for various reasons. They mention that the story is forgettable, designed for kids, lacks engagement, and has a generic Saturday morning cartoon feel. Some critics specifically point out issues with the cutscenes, voice acting, and overall lack of relevance to the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the story mode of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is underwhelming. While there are a few positive aspects mentioned, such as unique challenges and hazards, the negative opinions outweigh the positives. The story is often described as forgettable, unengaging, and lacking relevance to the game. Critics also note that the story is targeted towards younger players and has a generic Saturday morning cartoon feel. The criticisms regarding cutscenes, voice acting, and overall disappointment with the story mode further support the overall consensus that the story aspect of the game falls short.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Critics laud Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged for its thrilling gameplay with enjoyable drifting, new abilities like boosting and jumping, and various race modes. While some critics noted minor issues like inconvenient boost gauge ties and less useful sideways boosts, the overall consensus is highly positive, praising the game for its exciting mechanics, competitiveness, and upgrades for vehicles.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

87%

Mixed (50-79)

13%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged, highlighting several positive aspects. COGconnected mentioned that the drifting mechanic was enjoyable and essential for success, while Dexerto commended the arcade-like racing mechanics and the track builder feature. Digital Trends and GameGrin both mentioned the enhanced racing experience with new abilities such as boosting, drifting, and jumping. GameSpew and Impulsegamer praised the meaningful improvements and the pulse-quickening excitement of the gameplay. PlayStation LifeStyle and Push Square mentioned the additional racing mechanics that made the gameplay more engaging and versatile. TheSixthAxis and Game Informer both noted the improvements in core racing mechanics, making the cars feel sturdier and more responsive, with refined boosting and drifting mechanics. However, there were some criticisms raised by a few critics regarding the gameplay of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged. Game Rant mentioned that jumping being tied to the boost gauge could be inconvenient. Gfinity found the sideways boost to be less useful. Shacknews mentioned problematic mechanics, physics, and difficulty balancing. Nintendo Life pointed out a respawn issue that needs to be patched. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is very good. The positive aspects mentioned by the majority of critics, such as enjoyable drifting mechanics, new abilities like boosting and jumping, and the variety of race modes and objectives, outweighed the few criticisms raised. The gameplay was described as satisfying, exciting, and pulse-quickening, with well-implemented mechanics and a sense of competitiveness. The improvements in core racing mechanics and the ability to upgrade and personalize vehicles were also praised. Despite some minor inconveniences and issues, the overall sentiment towards the gameplay of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is positive.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics raved about the stunning graphics and impressive visual design of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged, praising the faithful recreation of toy cars and visually appealing environments. While some noted issues like lack of interactivity and visual problems on the Nintendo Switch, the majority agreed that the game's visuals were top-notch, capturing the essence of Hot Wheels with upgraded, gorgeous graphics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics praised the graphics and visual design of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged, with many describing them as stunning, impressive, and visually appealing. COGconnected, GameGrin, GameSpew, GamingBolt, Gfinity, Impulsegamer, Player 2, Press Start Australia, Push Square, TheSixthAxis, SomosXbox, XboxEra, Gaming Nexus, Hey Poor Player, PC Invasion, Shacknews, TRG, The Games Machine, and Nintendo Life all highlighted the game's visuals positively. They commended the detailed and faithful recreations of the Hot Wheels toy cars, the well-crafted and visually impressive environments, and the realistic and polished graphics. Critics such as Digital Trends, Dexerto, and God is a Geek specifically mentioned the capture of the plastic look of the tracks and cars, further enhancing the authenticity of the Hot Wheels experience. However, there were some criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged. Game Rant mentioned that while the stages looked fantastic, most items in the environment lacked meaningful interactivity. LevelUp criticized the uninspired track design and the lack of variation in biomes. Game Informer also commented that the visuals sometimes felt bland and stuck in a past console generation. Nintendo Life specifically mentioned a visual smudging and texture cutbacks on the Nintendo Switch version, along with frame rate drops during races, which affected the overall experience on that platform. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the graphics and visual design of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged are highly impressive and visually appealing. The game successfully captures the plastic look of the tracks and cars, with detailed and faithful recreations of the Hot Wheels toy cars. The environments are well-designed, visually stunning, and offer a good variety of gravity-defying courses. The visuals are described as stunning, polished, upgraded, gorgeous, and visually impressive. While there were some criticisms regarding the lack of interactivity in the environment, uninspired track design, and visual issues on the Nintendo Switch, these were outweighed by the positive opinions of the majority of critics. Overall, the graphics and visual design of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged were highly praised and contributed positively to the overall experience of the game.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics praise Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged for its excellent sound design and upbeat soundtrack that enhance the fast-paced racing gameplay. While some criticize the repetitive music and lack of distinction from the first game, overall consensus is positive, with the sound design combining well with visuals to create an immersive experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

60%

Mixed (50-79)

40%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged are generally positive. GAMINGbible and Gfinity both praise the sound design, with GAMINGbible specifically mentioning the superb track design and sound effects. Gamereactor UK and Push Square highlight the upbeat and funky soundtrack that matches the fast-paced racing gameplay. GamingBolt and Impulsegamer appreciate the funky tunes and bass licks that fit the chill vibe of the game. Multiplayer.it commends the Italian voice acting and the selection of songs that enhance the action on screen. SomosXbox mentions the variety of music tracks that add to the frenetic atmosphere of the game, along with the full Spanish voice acting. However, there are some criticisms regarding the Sound Design and Music of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged. Press Start Australia mentions that the choice of music is grating and repetitive, which can become tiresome during extended gameplay sessions. Hey Poor Player criticizes the repetitive music and engine sounds of some vehicles, although they do mention dynamic music changes during certain criteria. Impulsegamer also notes that while the soundtrack is quirky and bouncy, it lacks enough distinction from the first game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Sound Design and Music of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged are generally positive. The sound design is praised for its excellent track design, sound effects, and ability to combine well with the visuals to create an immersive experience. The upbeat and funky soundtrack is generally well-received, enhancing the fast and chaotic racing gameplay. However, there are some criticisms regarding repetitive music and engine sounds, as well as the lack of distinction from the first game's soundtrack. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment is that the Sound Design and Music contribute positively to the overall experience of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics have mixed opinions on the voice acting in Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged. Some praise it for enhancing the narrative and immersive experience, especially in certain languages. However, others criticize it as insipid, inconsequential, and lacking quality. Overall, reviews vary, indicating that the voice acting may not be consistently impressive or impactful.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

33%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged are mixed. Some critics, such as Multiplayer.it and SomosXbox, mention that the voice acting is well done and provides an immersive experience during the story mode. These positive comments highlight the effectiveness of the voice acting in creating an engaging narrative for players. Additionally, the mention of the Italian voice acting being well done by Multiplayer.it suggests that the localization efforts have been successful in delivering a quality experience for players in different regions. On the other hand, there are critics who express negative opinions about the voice acting in Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged. TheSixthAxis describes the fully-voiced comic book cut scenes in the campaign mode as insipid and inconsequential, which implies that the voice acting fails to make a positive impression. TRG goes further to state that the voice acting is poor in the cutscenes, indicating a lack of quality and effectiveness in delivering the intended emotions and performances. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is a mixed bag. While some critics appreciate the immersive experience and well-done voice acting in certain languages, others criticize it for being insipid, inconsequential, and poor in quality. It is important to note that there are reviewers who do not provide detailed evaluations of the voice acting, such as COGconnected and GameSpew, which makes it difficult to form a complete picture of the overall sentiment. However, the presence of both positive and negative opinions suggests that the voice acting in the game may not be consistently impressive or impactful.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged impresses critics with smooth 60fps gameplay on PS5 and Xbox Series X, while PC version shines in 1440p Ultra settings. Nintendo Switch version faces respawn and frame rate issues. Overall, the game delivers a solid technical performance across platforms, earning praise for immersive racing experiences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the technical performance, the majority of critics had positive opinions about Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged on all gaming platforms. On the PS5, Multiplayer.it, Push Square, and TheSixthAxis all praised the game's consistent frame rate and stable performance. They noted that the game maintained a solid 60 frames per second, even during fast-paced gameplay and split-screen mode. This indicates that the developers optimized the game well for the PS5, providing a smooth and immersive racing experience. Similarly, XboxEra reported that the game ran smoothly at 60 frames per second on the Xbox Series X. This indicates that the technical performance was on par with the PS5 version, ensuring a seamless gaming experience for Xbox players. On the PC, The Games Machine highlighted that Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged ran at 60 frames per second in 1440p with Ultra settings. This demonstrates that the game was well-optimized for PC hardware, allowing players to enjoy high-quality visuals and smooth gameplay, even during chaotic moments. However, there were some negative aspects mentioned by Nintendo Life regarding the Nintendo Switch version. They pointed out a respawn issue that needs to be patched and mentioned frame drops during races. This suggests that the technical performance of the game on the Nintendo Switch might not be as optimized as on other platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the technical performance of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is very good across multiple gaming platforms. The positive feedback from Multiplayer.it, Push Square, TheSixthAxis, XboxEra, and The Games Machine indicates that the game runs smoothly, maintains a stable frame rate, and provides an enjoyable gaming experience. While there were some negative points raised by Nintendo Life regarding the Nintendo Switch version, the overall sentiment from the majority of critics is positive, highlighting the game's solid technical performance.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged impresses critics with its diverse game modes, customization options, and addictive progression systems, making it highly replayable. While some criticize aspects like limited unlockable cars and difficulty spikes, the game's variety of content, track editors, and multiplayer features ensure an engaging experience for players. Overall, Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged offers a fun and creative racing experience with good replay value, appealing to a wide range of players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

54%

Mixed (50-79)

46%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged are generally positive. Many critics highlight the various game modes and customization options as factors that contribute to the game's replayability. COGconnected mentions that the game offers a variety of new modes and rewards, while Dexerto praises the addictive progression systems. Digital Trends and GameSpew both mention the comprehensive single-player experience and track editors as contributing factors to the game's replay value. Game Rant and GameGrin highlight the custom track builder and vehicle customization options as potential sources of replayability. Gamereactor UK and GamingBolt mention the large number of cars and tracks to unlock, while PlayStation LifeStyle and Push Square mention the variety of race types and multiplayer features. These positive aspects indicate that Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged offers a diverse range of content and features that can keep players engaged and coming back for more. However, there are also some criticisms regarding the replay value of the game. IGN mentions a lack of unlockable cars and a spike in difficulty after the career mode, which may limit the game's long-term appeal for some players. Gfinity expresses disappointment with the lack of brilliant licensed cars from the first game. Player 2 mentions that the track creation tools may be more inviting than the core racing itself, but playing through the campaign seems to be a prerequisite for attaining all of the track pieces. Shacknews mentions that there are lots of unlockables and grinding required to progress, which may deter some players from fully engaging with the game. TRG mentions that there is little innovation for returning fans, which may limit the game's appeal to those familiar with the franchise. These criticisms suggest that while Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged offers a variety of content and features, there are some aspects that may hinder its long-term replay value for certain players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged has good replay value. The game offers a variety of game modes, including single-player and multiplayer options, as well as customization features such as track and car editors. The large number of cars and tracks to unlock, along with the addictive progression systems, provide incentive for players to keep coming back for more. The ability to create and share custom tracks also adds to the game's replayability. While there are some criticisms regarding the lack of unlockable cars, difficulty spikes, and limited innovation for returning fans, the overall sentiment is positive. Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is praised as an enjoyable arcade racer that appeals to both young and old players, offering a fun and creative racing experience with ample replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

57%

Mixed (50-79)

43%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged has garnered a range of opinions from critics, with many highlighting its positive aspects. The game is praised for its fast-paced gameplay, addictive progression systems, and enjoyable campaign. Critics like Dexerto and GameGrin commend the silky smooth gameplay, abundant customization options, and entertaining racing experience. The improved graphics, replay value, and comprehensive single-player experience are also lauded by Digital Trends and TheSixthAxis. Additionally, critics such as PlayStation LifeStyle and God is a Geek appreciate the game's polished and enjoyable sequel status, making it a great alternative to other arcade racers. However, there are some negative aspects mentioned by the critics. Several reviewers, including COGconnected and LevelUp, point out the lack of variety in environments and the feeling of similarity to its predecessor. The rubberbanding issues, unambitious race modes, and frustrating on-track experiences are also mentioned by Impulsegamer and Press Start Australia. Some critics, like Shacknews and TRG, suggest that the game may not resonate with everyone and is only recommended for big fans of Hot Wheels. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is a solid arcade racing game that improves upon its predecessor in many ways. The positive aspects, such as the enjoyable gameplay, impressive car detail, and comprehensive single-player experience, are widely acknowledged. However, the lack of variety, feeling of similarity, and some frustrating elements prevent it from reaching its full potential. Despite these drawbacks, the game is still considered a worthwhile follow-up and a great alternative to other arcade racers.

TL;DR

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged impresses critics with its fast-paced gameplay, addictive progression, and enjoyable campaign. Praised for silky smooth gameplay and abundant customization options, it offers an entertaining racing experience. While some mention issues like lack of variety and similarity to its predecessor, the game's improved graphics and replay value are commended. Overall, it's seen as a solid arcade racer with room for improvement, recommended for Hot Wheels fans seeking a fun alternative in the genre.

MONSTER

Reviews

112 reviews found

Hey Poor Player

Oct 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer gives a final verdict of 4.5/5, recommending the game as a pick-up-and-play arcade racer.

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GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Oct 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is bigger and better in just about every way, and a very worthy sequel.

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Gaming Nexus

Oct 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged improves upon the original game in almost every way and provides a fun and less frustrating experience.

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God is a Geek

Xbox Series X

Oct 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 - Turbocharged is a great alternative to other arcade racers, with smooth gameplay, beautiful tracks, and a good amount of content.

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GameGrin

PlayStation 5

Oct 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 - Turbocharged is a great arcade racing game with minimal negatives. It offers silky smooth gameplay, enjoyable campaign, and abundant customization options.

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Push Square

PlayStation 5

Oct 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is a highly polished, fast-paced, fun, and robust racing sequel that addresses criticisms of the previous title and creates a fantastic follow-up arcade racer.

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PlayStation LifeStyle

PlayStation 5

Oct 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review gives a positive overall verdict, stating that the game is a more polished and enjoyable sequel.

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TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Oct 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is praised for being a better version of the original game in every way. The improved gameplay, graphics, and replay value make it a highly enjoyable arcade racer for players of all ages.

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Gfinity

PlayStation 5

Oct 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 is a great game and a worthwhile follow-up to its predecessor, despite the omission of the first game's DLC cars and track designs.

Dexerto

PlayStation 5

Oct 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised for its fast-paced gameplay, customization options, and addictive progression systems, earning a score of 4 out of 5.

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