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MONSTER

Team Sonic Racing

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Team Sonic Racing
Item: Team Sonic Racing
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2019

GenresThird Person Perspective, Sports, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing

AvailableMay 21, 2019

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperSumo Digital

Overview

Team Sonic Racing combines the best elements of arcade and fast-paced competitive style racing as you face-off with friends in intense multiplayer racing.

Elsewhere

7.4

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

While Team Sonic Racing offers a decent solo adventure mode and a cute, nostalgic narrative for fans, critics overwhelmingly find its storytelling shallow, predictable, and forgettable. Many deem the story as an unengaging backdrop that fails to enhance the overall gameplay experience, leading to a perception of it being a disposable addition rather than a meaningful component of the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

31%

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

The opinions surrounding the story of Team Sonic Racing reveal a few positive aspects that some critics appreciated. For instance, IGN Japan noted that the Team Adventure mode offers a substantial solo play experience, providing a variety of missions that serve as a tutorial, which is a notable feature for players new to the racing genre. Similarly, The Sydney Morning Herald described the narrative as "cute," suggesting that while it may not be groundbreaking, it can still be enjoyable for those familiar with the Sonic franchise. Additionally, Cheat Code Central highlighted that the campaign adds a narrative layer to the racing experience, which some players may find appealing as it connects the racing events in a thematic way. However, the overwhelming sentiment from critics leans towards the negative, with many expressing disappointment in the story's execution. Multiplayer.it criticized the Team Adventure mode for its "brief and superfluous stories," while InsideGamer.nl described the plot as predictable and easy to skip, implying a lack of narrative depth. BaziCenter and Metro GameCentral echoed similar sentiments, with the latter even blanking out during cut scenes due to a lack of engagement. Critics like App Trigger and ZTGD pointed out that the story feels poorly structured and budget-restrained, detracting from the overall experience. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and Gamer.no, deemed the narrative as uninteresting and disposable, reinforcing the idea that it serves more as a backdrop rather than a focal point. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Team Sonic Racing features a story mode that attempts to connect the gameplay through a narrative, it ultimately falls short in terms of depth and engagement. Many reviewers, such as New Game Network and GameSpot, noted that the story is forgettable and can be easily skipped, indicating that it does not significantly enhance the gameplay experience. The general tone suggests that while the game may offer nostalgic value for fans of the franchise, the story itself lacks the necessary substance to captivate a broader audience, leading to a perception of it being an obligatory addition rather than an integral part of the game.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Team Sonic Racing impresses with innovative team-based mechanics and enjoyable multiplayer fun, but suffers from stiff driving controls and frustrating AI. Reviewers praise cooperative elements, but criticize repetitive gameplay and lack of depth for solo players. Overall, it's a mixed experience that excels in multiplayer but falls short in single-player mode.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Team Sonic Racing has garnered a mix of praise and critique from various reviewers, with many highlighting its innovative team-based mechanics as a standout feature. Critics from GameSpot and Game Informer commend the gameplay for its fast-paced nature and enjoyable driving mechanics, noting that the emphasis on teamwork adds a unique twist to the racing experience. The cooperative elements, such as item sharing and strategic boosts, are celebrated by multiple reviewers, including God is a Geek and Shacknews, who appreciate how these mechanics encourage collaboration among players. Furthermore, the variety of racing modes and character classes, as mentioned by XGN and Nintendo Life, contribute to a dynamic and engaging experience, particularly in multiplayer settings. However, several critics have pointed out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. GamesRadar+ and Game Rant express concerns about the driving mechanics, describing them as stiff and clunky, which can lead to a lack of responsiveness during races. The AI's performance is also a common point of frustration, with reviewers like New Game Network and Xbox Tavern noting that it can hinder the overall experience, especially in solo play. Additionally, some critics, including IGN Spain and Everyeye.it, argue that while the team mechanics add depth, they can also lead to a lack of complexity and repetitiveness, making the gameplay feel shallow for more experienced players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Team Sonic Racing presents a mixed bag of experiences. While the innovative team-based gameplay and cooperative elements are generally well-received, issues with driving mechanics and AI performance hinder the game's potential. Critics like Digital Chumps and Gaming Nexus highlight that the game shines in multiplayer scenarios but struggles in single-player modes, creating a divide in how the game is perceived based on the player's preferred mode of play. Ultimately, Team Sonic Racing offers a fun and accessible racing experience, but its execution leaves room for improvement, particularly in terms of depth and responsiveness.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Team Sonic Racing dazzles with vibrant graphics and faithful Sonic aesthetics but falters in track design and performance. Critics praise the colorful visuals and engaging environments, likening them to a "candy land," yet many lament the generic track layouts and technical issues like aliasing and frame drops. The chaos of the overly saturated colors hampers clarity, leading to a mixed reception. Ultimately, while visually appealing, the game’s lack of innovation and polish disappoints fans expecting a thrilling Sonic experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Team Sonic Racing have received a mix of praise and criticism from various reviewers. On the positive side, many critics highlight the vibrant and colorful aesthetics that are characteristic of the Sonic franchise. For instance, Everyeye.it appreciates the well-designed environments and character models that remain faithful to Sonic's legacy, creating a pleasant visual experience. Similarly, Gamer.nl notes the game's impressive and polished graphics, likening them to a "candy land." Critics such as GameSpot and Xbox Achievements also commend the distinct worlds and engaging track environments, with GameSpot specifically mentioning the vibrant visuals that enhance the overall racing experience. However, the game is not without its shortcomings, particularly regarding the design and performance aspects of its graphics. Many reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and GamesRadar+, criticize the track design as generic and lacking the distinctiveness that fans expect from a Sonic title. Gamersky points out noticeable aliasing and frame drops during intense moments, especially in multiplayer, which detracts from the visual experience. Additionally, IGN Italia mentions the overly saturated colors that can make it difficult to distinguish between objects in the race, while Multiplayer.it notes a chaotic visual design that hampers gameplay clarity. This sentiment is echoed by several others who feel that the visual presentation lacks the polish and excitement of previous entries in the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Team Sonic Racing features colorful and engaging graphics that appeal to fans, it ultimately falls short in terms of track design and performance. Many reviewers express disappointment in the lack of variety and inspiration in the track layouts, with InsideGamer.nl and GamingTrend emphasizing the uninspired nature of many tracks. Despite the game's vibrant visuals, the technical flaws and generic design elements lead to a less memorable experience, as noted by GameCrate and Push Square. Thus, while the game showcases some appealing visuals, it struggles to fully capture the essence of the Sonic universe, leaving critics with mixed feelings.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Team Sonic Racing boasts a nostalgic and energetic soundtrack, praised for its ties to Sonic’s legacy, thanks to composers like Jun Senoue and Crush 40. Critics enjoyed the music’s enhancement of gameplay but slammed the sound design for repetitive voice lines and poor audio quality, which detracted from immersion. Overall, while the game’s music is a highlight, the sound experience is marred by flaws that leave it feeling inconsistent.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Team Sonic Racing have garnered a mixed but predominantly positive reception among critics. Many reviewers praised the soundtrack, particularly the contributions from well-known composers like Jun Senoue and Crush 40. Critics such as Nintendo World Report and PlayStation LifeStyle highlighted the energetic and nostalgic quality of the music, noting that it effectively enhances the racing experience. The incorporation of remixes and original tracks that resonate with Sonic's history was appreciated by several, including GameCrate and CGMagazine, who noted that the music complements the gameplay and evokes nostalgia for fans of the franchise. Additionally, some critics, like Everyeye.it and Nintendo Insider, remarked positively on the voice acting, which, despite some criticisms, added charm and personality to the characters during races. However, the sound design faced significant criticism, particularly regarding voice acting and audio quality. Reviewers such as Jeuxvideo.com and Digital Chumps pointed out that the voice lines can become insufferable and repetitive, detracting from the overall experience. Critics like BaziCenter and InsideGamer.nl noted issues with sound effects being delayed or barely audible, which undermined the immersion during races. Furthermore, some critics, including Xbox Achievements and Stevivor, described the music as forgettable or dated, suggesting a lack of innovation in the audio design. This sentiment was echoed by others who felt that the sound effects and voice acting often fell short of expectations. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Team Sonic Racing features a strong soundtrack that appeals to fans of the franchise, it is marred by repetitive voice lines and inconsistent sound quality. Critics like Push Square and Trusted Reviews acknowledged the high-energy themes and nostalgic elements, yet many also highlighted the shortcomings in sound design, particularly the voice acting and audio performance. The game’s audio experience, while enjoyable for some, is ultimately seen as a mixed bag, with both commendable elements and notable flaws that detract from the overall racing experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Team Sonic Racing's voice acting is a mixed bag; while some critics praise its charm and nostalgic appeal, many highlight amateurish quality and disjointed performances that detract from immersion. Familiar voices add fun, but annoying lines and lackluster cutscenes leave a frustrating impression overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

18%

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

The voice acting in Team Sonic Racing has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, particularly regarding the familiarity and charm it brings to the characters. Critics like Everyeye.it and Hobby Consolas praised the inclusion of notable voice actors, particularly for iconic characters like Sonic and Knuckles, which enhances the overall experience. Additionally, Gameblog.fr highlighted how the French voice acting aligns well with the game’s cartoonish tone, adding to the enjoyment. Critics such as Shacknews noted that the fully voiced conversations contribute life to the story, despite the lack of cutscene animations, while NintendoWorldReport found the character interactions during races to be charming and engaging. However, the negative aspects of the voice acting are quite pronounced in the reviews. BaziCenter criticized the voice work as amateurish and lacking quality, which detracts from the game's immersion. Destructoid echoed this sentiment, describing the voice acting as disjointed, with characters sounding as if they recorded their lines separately. Many critics, including IGN and Jeuxvideo.com, pointed out that some voices can be annoying, which negatively impacts the overall presentation. Furthermore, critics like GameCritics and Game Over Online expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of the voiced cutscenes, indicating that the voice acting does not significantly enhance the gaming experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while there are some commendable aspects of the voice acting in Team Sonic Racing, such as its nostalgic appeal and the charm it brings to character interactions, the execution leaves much to be desired. Many critics, including VGC and XboxAddict, noted issues with repetitiveness and annoyance, which can detract from the immersion and enjoyment of the game. The mixed reviews indicate that while some players may appreciate the voice acting for its familiarity and humor, others may find it a frustrating aspect of the overall experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Team Sonic Racing's technical performance varies widely by platform. The PS4 version impresses with smooth single-player gameplay at 60fps but suffers from frame rate drops and glitches in multiplayer, drawing criticism. The Nintendo Switch maintains a stable 30fps but struggles in split-screen, while the Xbox One shows promise in single-player but faces challenges online. Overall, enjoyable gameplay is hampered by significant technical inconsistencies across all platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The technical performance of Team Sonic Racing has garnered a mix of opinions across different gaming platforms. On the PlayStation 4, many critics noted that the game generally performs well, with some reviewers like TrueGaming and CGMagazine praising its ability to maintain a smooth 60 frames per second, especially in single-player modes. Critics such as IGN Spain and Worth Playing also highlighted the overall stability and smoothness of multiplayer experiences, suggesting that the game can deliver an enjoyable racing experience despite some minor hiccups. On the Nintendo Switch, the performance is described as consistent at 30 frames per second, with critics like FNintendo and Nintenderos indicating that the game runs smoothly with only minor technical blips. The Xbox One version also received some praise, with reviewers like XboxAddict noting a stable frame rate, particularly in single-player modes. However, the negatives surrounding technical performance are significant, particularly on the PlayStation 4. Many critics, including Cheat Code Central and Digital Chumps, reported persistent issues such as frame rate drops, bugs, and glitches, especially during online and split-screen modes. Critics like InsideGamer.nl and Metro GameCentral echoed these sentiments, noting that stability issues detract from the overall experience. On the Nintendo Switch, while the performance is generally stable, some critics, including Nintendo Insider and Switch Player, pointed out that the lower frame rate compared to other systems is a drawback, and the game can struggle during split-screen multiplayer. The Xbox One version also faced criticism, with reviewers like GameSpot and GameSpew mentioning inconsistent frame rates during split-screen play and online multiplayer challenges. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Team Sonic Racing has its strengths in terms of technical performance, particularly in single-player modes across all platforms, it is marred by significant issues in multiplayer and split-screen experiences. The PS4 version, while capable of delivering smooth gameplay, suffers from frequent frame rate drops and stability problems, as noted by critics like PlaySense and VideoGamer. The Nintendo Switch version, while stable, is limited by its lower frame rate and occasional performance issues, as highlighted by critics like Vooks and NintendoWorldReport. Meanwhile, the Xbox One version shows promise in single-player but struggles with online play, as indicated by Xbox Tavern and TrueAchievements. Overall, the game seems to be a mixed bag, with potential for enjoyable gameplay hindered by technical inconsistencies across platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Team Sonic Racing shines in multiplayer and customization, making it fun with friends, but suffers from limited content and repetitive gameplay. Critics note a lack of engaging post-story content and difficulties in finding players online. While it offers enjoyable moments, its replay value is undercut by monotony and tedious gacha mechanics, leaving it less appealing compared to other racers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

30%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Team Sonic Racing exhibit a mix of positive sentiments, particularly around its multiplayer features and customization options. Critics like GameCrate and Hardcore Gamer highlight the game's engaging multiplayer modes, which enhance replayability, especially when played with friends. The variety of game modes, including online multiplayer and local play, is praised by reviewers such as GamePro Germany and MondoXbox, who note that these elements contribute significantly to the game's longevity. Additionally, the customization options and the cooperative gameplay mechanics are seen as strengths that encourage players to return for more, as noted by IGN Japan and The Games Machine. However, several critics express concerns about the game's replay value due to various shortcomings. GamesRadar+ and Digital Chumps point out a lack of meaningful content after completing the story mode, while others like Gamer.no and Wccftech mention difficulties in finding players for multiplayer, which can diminish the overall experience. The limited character roster and repetitive nature of tracks are also highlighted by critics such as Game Rant and Trusted Reviews, who feel that these factors contribute to a sense of monotony that may deter players from returning. Furthermore, the gacha mechanics for unlocking content are seen as tedious by ZTGD, which could further impact the game's appeal over time. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Team Sonic Racing offers some enjoyable multiplayer experiences and customization options, its replay value is hampered by a lack of engaging content and variety. Many reviewers, including PlayStation Country and InsideGamer.nl, acknowledge that the game can be fun, particularly in social settings, but the repetitive gameplay and limited single-player content are significant drawbacks. As a result, while some players may find enough enjoyment to return to the game, the general sentiment leans towards a recognition of its limitations, suggesting that it may not hold the same lasting appeal as other titles in the genre.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In reviewing the overall sentiment towards Team Sonic Racing, several critics highlight positive aspects that contribute to its appeal, particularly for fans of the franchise. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and God is a Geek, commend the game for its enjoyable team mechanics and engaging gameplay, which provide a fresh take on the kart racing genre. Everyeye.it notes the game’s colorful presentation and family-friendly nature, making it accessible for younger audiences. Critics like Gamers Heroes and Game Over Online also emphasize the fun factor, especially in local multiplayer settings, where the game shines with its cooperative racing dynamics. Additionally, Nintendo Insider and PlayStation LifeStyle appreciate the unique team-based mechanics, indicating that these elements set the game apart from its competitors. However, the reviews also reveal a consensus of dissatisfaction regarding various shortcomings of Team Sonic Racing. Critics such as GamesRadar+ and Digital Chumps express disappointment, citing a lack of depth and innovation compared to previous titles and competitors like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Many reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and Gamer.no, describe the game as feeling rushed and lacking the charm and polish expected from a Sonic racing title. Technical issues, a limited roster of characters, and repetitive gameplay are recurring criticisms, with PlayStation LifeStyle and GameCritics noting that these factors detract from the overall experience. The sentiment is echoed by GamingTrend and Gamer.nl, who argue that while the game is enjoyable, it ultimately fails to meet the high standards set by its predecessors. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, leaning towards a more critical perspective. While Team Sonic Racing is recognized for its fun gameplay and unique team mechanics, many reviewers agree that it falls short of expectations, particularly when compared to its predecessors and competitors. Critics like VGC and Hardcore Gamer acknowledge the game as a solid option for fans, but it is often described as underwhelming and lacking the depth and variety that players have come to expect from the genre. Ultimately, while there are enjoyable elements, the game is perceived as a step back for the franchise, leaving many players hoping for a more polished and ambitious sequel in the future.

TL;DR

Team Sonic Racing offers fun team mechanics and colorful gameplay, appealing to franchise fans and local multiplayer enthusiasts. However, critics feel it lacks depth, polish, and innovation compared to rivals like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, often calling it a step back for the series. While enjoyable, it falls short of expectations, leaving players yearning for a more ambitious sequel.

MONSTER

Reviews

166 reviews found

CGMagazine

PlayStation 4

May 18, 2019