Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Racing, Sport
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, Mac, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Distinctive Software
- Publishers: Accolade
The Cycles: International Grand Prix Racing (1989)
Overview
The Cycles: International Grand Prix Racing is a motorcycle racing game developed and published by Accolade in 1989. The game is notable for its first-person perspective, which puts the player in the driver’s seat of a Grand Prix motorcycle. The game features 15 authentic Grand Prix courses, 9 of the circuit’s best riders, and 3 different performance classes.
Gameplay
The player controls a motorcycle racer from a first-person perspective. The game features a variety of tracks, including Laguna Seca, Le Mans, and Salzburg. The player must race against 9 other riders, each with their own unique skills and abilities. The player can choose from 3 different performance classes: 500cc, 250cc, and 125cc. Each class has its own unique handling and performance characteristics.
The game features a variety of gameplay modes, including single races, championships, and time trials. In single races, the player can race against 9 other riders on any of the 15 tracks. In championships, the player must race in a series of races to earn points and win the championship. In time trials, the player can race against the clock to set the best possible time.
Graphics and Sound
The game’s graphics are impressive for its time. The tracks are detailed and realistic, and the motorcycles are well-modeled. The game’s sound is also good, with realistic engine noises and crowd noise.
Reception
The game was well-received by critics upon release. It was praised for its realistic graphics, immersive gameplay, and challenging AI. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Legacy
The Cycles: International Grand Prix Racing is considered to be one of the best motorcycle racing games ever made. It was one of the first games to feature a first-person perspective, and it set the standard for future motorcycle racing games. The game is still popular today, and it is considered to be a classic of the genre.
Detailed Review
Graphics
The game’s graphics are impressive for its time. The tracks are detailed and realistic, and the motorcycles are well-modeled. The game’s use of color is also impressive, with the tracks and motorcycles being rendered in a variety of vibrant colors.
Sound
The game’s sound is also good, with realistic engine noises and crowd noise. The game’s music is also well-composed, and it helps to create an immersive and exciting atmosphere.
Gameplay
The game’s gameplay is challenging and rewarding. The AI riders are aggressive and skilled, and they will not hesitate to overtake the player if they make a mistake. The game’s tracks are also challenging, with a variety of corners and obstacles that the player must navigate.
Overall
The Cycles: International Grand Prix Racing is a classic motorcycle racing game that is still fun to play today. The game’s graphics, sound, and gameplay are all top-notch, and it is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Tips for Playing
Here are a few tips for playing The Cycles: International Grand Prix Racing:
- Brake early and often. The tracks in the game are very challenging, and it is important to brake early and often to avoid crashing.
- Use the throttle wisely. The motorcycles in the game are very powerful, and it is important to use the throttle wisely to avoid spinning out.
- Learn the tracks. The tracks in the game are very complex, and it is important to learn the layout of each track before racing on it.
- Be patient. The game is challenging, and it will take time to master. Be patient and don’t get discouraged if you don’t win every race.
Conclusion
The Cycles: International Grand Prix Racing is a classic motorcycle racing game that is still fun to play today. The game’s graphics, sound, and gameplay are all top-notch, and it is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
