Fortnite: Rocket Racing review: A mixed bag

Rocket Racing, a new addition to the ever-expanding universe of Fortnite, offers a unique and thrilling arcade racing experience.

Developed by Epic Games and Psyonix (known for their popular game Rocket League), Rocket Racing brings an interesting blend of speed and strategy to Fortnite’s gameplay.

However, it does have its share of flaws.

The game is now available on all versions of Fortnite on Android, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.

Gameplay overview

Rocket Racing is an arcade racer that allows players to drift, fly, and boost through an array of tracks.

The game is characterized by its fast-paced and competitive nature.

Unlike simple kart racers, it features 26 tracks at launch, each presenting various challenges and secrets.

The game stands out for its deep driving systems, which go beyond the usual expectations of arcade racers.

Players can expect to manage boosts gained through strategic drifting, making for an engaging racing experience​​.

Unique features

One of the distinctive aspects of Rocket Racing is the passive drift mechanic, where cars automatically drift during turns.

This can be intensified by holding a button for tighter drifts.

Boost management is crucial as the more a player drifts, the more boost energy accumulates, allowing for sudden bursts of speed.

Additionally, Rocket Racing introduces jumping and gliding elements similar to Rocket League, adding another layer of strategy and excitement to races.

Multilevel tracks further enhance the gameplay, offering various racing paths and the opportunity for surprising race outcomes​​.

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Critique

While Rocket Racing boasts solid foundational racing elements, it falls short in terms of distinctiveness and engaging central features, making it less compelling as a standalone game.

The tracks initially offered to players, although functional, lack a memorable impact and do not stand out in the crowded racing game genre.

However, it’s widely acknowledged that the game has significant room for improvement and evolution.

The anticipation is that future updates and enhancements from the developers could substantially increase the game’s appeal, adding more depth and character to the overall experience.

Context within Fortnite

Rocket Racing is not just a mode within Fortnite; it’s a full-fledged game in its own right.

This move represents Fortnite’s ongoing expansion into different gaming genres, showcasing the versatility of the platform.

The game leverages Psyonix’s expertise in creating high-quality racing games, making Rocket Racing a noteworthy addition to Fortnite’s suite of gaming experiences​​.