Summary
- Release Year: 2003
- Genres: Racing
- Platforms: Nintendo GameCube, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, Xbox
- Developers: Mind’s Eye
- Publishers: Empire Interactive
Starsky & Hutch (2003): A Nostalgic Arcade Racing Adventure
Starsky & Hutch is an arcade racing game released in 2003, based on the popular 1970s TV series of the same name. The game was released to tie in with the film adaptation of the TV show, and it captures the spirit of the original series with its fast-paced action, humor, and iconic characters.
Gameplay
Starsky & Hutch is an arcade racing game at its core, with a focus on high-speed chases and over-the-top stunts. Players take control of either Starsky or Hutch, and must complete a series of missions based on episodes of the TV show. Each mission has a primary objective, such as chasing down a criminal’s car, as well as a secondary objective, such as destroying a specific object or collecting a certain number of items.
In addition to the main missions, there is also a free roaming mode in which players can explore the game’s environment and look for trouble. The environment is based on the city of San Francisco, and it is filled with ramps, jumps, and other obstacles that can be used to perform stunts.
Scoring System
One of the unique features of Starsky & Hutch is its scoring system. Players are not only judged on their driving skills, but also on how “ratings-friendly” their driving is. This is because, in the game’s fiction, Starsky & Hutch are actually shooting a TV show, and the scoring reflects how well their driving would play to an audience.
Players are awarded gold, silver, or bronze medals for each mission depending on their performance. To progress to the next season, players must earn at least one gold medal and two silver medals in the previous season.
Vehicles
Starsky & Hutch drive their iconic red and white Ford Gran Torino in the game. The Gran Torino is a powerful muscle car that is perfect for high-speed chases and stunts. In addition to the Gran Torino, there are a number of other vehicles that can be unlocked in the game, including the Pontiac Firebird, the Chevrolet Camaro, and the Dodge Charger.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in Starsky & Hutch are solid for a game of its time. The character models are well-detailed, and the environments are colorful and充滿活力的. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with a mix of classic rock and funk tracks that perfectly capture the feel of the 1970s.
Reception
Starsky & Hutch received mixed reviews upon release. Some critics praised the game’s arcade-style gameplay and humor, while others criticized its repetitive missions and lack of innovation. However, the game was a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.
Legacy
Starsky & Hutch is a fun and nostalgic arcade racing game that captures the spirit of the original TV series. The game’s unique scoring system and over-the-top stunts make it a standout in the genre. While it may not be the most innovative or groundbreaking racing game, it is still a lot of fun to play, especially for fans of the TV show.
Tips for Playing Starsky & Hutch
- Use the environment to your advantage. There are plenty of ramps, jumps, and other obstacles that can be used to perform stunts and gain an advantage over your opponents.
- Don’t be afraid to hit the bad guys. Hitting criminals will earn you viewers, which will help you get a higher score.
- Be careful not to hit civilians. Hitting civilians will lose you viewers, so be careful when driving through crowded areas.
- Collect the bonus targets. Bonus targets are scattered throughout the levels, and they can give you a boost in score or health.
- Upgrade your car. As you progress through the game, you will be able to upgrade your car with new parts and upgrades. This will make your car faster, stronger, and more durable.
Review Score
7.5/10
