Summary
- Release Year: 1990
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST/STE
- Developers: Core Design
- Publishers: Gremlin Graphics Software Ltd.
Skidz (1990): A Classic SNES Racing Gem
Released in 1990 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Skidz is a top-down racing game that quickly gained a cult following among SNES enthusiasts. With its vibrant graphics, fast-paced gameplay, and catchy music, Skidz has stood the test of time as a beloved classic.
Gameplay
Skidz is a single-player racing game where players control a race car and compete against seven computer-controlled opponents on a variety of tracks. The game features three different modes:
- Race: Players race against the computer opponents to finish first.
- Time Trial: Players race against the clock to set the fastest lap time.
- Battle: Players use power-ups to attack and hinder their opponents.
Skidz’s gameplay is simple yet addictive. Players must navigate their cars around the track, avoiding obstacles and using power-ups to gain an advantage. The game’s physics are realistic, and cars handle differently depending on their speed and the type of terrain they are driving on.
Tracks
Skidz features eight different tracks, each with its own unique layout and challenges. The tracks are set in a variety of locations, including a city, a forest, a desert, and a beach. Each track has its own unique obstacles, such as ramps, jumps, and oil slicks.
Cars
Skidz features four different cars, each with its own unique stats. The cars are:
- Skid: The all-around car with balanced stats.
- Zoom: The fastest car, but with poor handling.
- Crush: The heaviest car, with good defense but poor speed.
- Jumper: The car with the best jumping ability.
Players can choose which car they want to race with, and each car has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Power-Ups
Skidz features a variety of power-ups that can be used to gain an advantage over opponents. Power-ups are randomly placed on the track, and players must drive over them to collect them. Power-ups include:
- Speed Boost: Increases the player’s speed for a short period of time.
- Shield: Protects the player’s car from damage for a short period of time.
- Oil Slick: Drops an oil slick behind the player’s car, causing opponents to skid out.
- Missile: Fires a missile at an opponent’s car.
- EMP: Disables all of the other cars on the track for a short period of time.
Power-ups can be used strategically to gain an advantage over opponents and win races.
Graphics and Sound
Skidz’s graphics are colorful and vibrant, and the game’s sprites are well-drawn. The game’s tracks are detailed and varied, and the cars are all unique and visually appealing. Skidz’s music is also catchy and upbeat, and it helps to create a sense of excitement and urgency.
Reception
Skidz was a critical and commercial success upon its release. Critics praised the game’s fast-paced gameplay, challenging tracks, and variety of power-ups. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. Skidz has been included in several lists of the best SNES games of all time, and it remains a popular choice among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Legacy
Skidz has had a lasting impact on the racing game genre. The game’s unique top-down perspective and realistic physics have influenced many subsequent racing games. Skidz is also credited with popularizing the use of power-ups in racing games.
Skidz is a classic SNES racing game that deserves to be remembered. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, challenging tracks, and variety of power-ups make it a timeless classic that can still be enjoyed by gamers today.
Review Score
8/10
