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CRITIK

Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled
Item: Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2019

GenresAdventure, Third Person Perspective, Sports, Vehicular, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing

AvailableJun 21, 2019

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperBeenox

Overview

Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled is a kart racing game developed by Beenox and published by Activision. It is a remaster of Crash Team Racing, which was originally developed by Naughty Dog for the PlayStation.

Elsewhere

8.2

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

69%

Mixed (50-79)

31%

Negative (0-49)

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

The critics generally praise Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled for its entertaining and light-hearted story that sets the stage for the kart racing action. Game Over Online appreciates the fully-animated CG mini-movies that provide context to the narrative, while Press Start Australia finds the zany and straightforward story involving racing to save Earth from Nitrous Oxide to be a fun addition. Additionally, Trusted Reviews notes that the setup, although simple, effectively introduces the alien overlord Nitros Oxide as the antagonist, adding a layer of urgency to the races. On the downside, some critics feel that the story in Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled lacks depth and serves merely as a backdrop for the gameplay. Gamers' Temple describes the storyline as an excuse for kart racing, with minimal impact on the overall experience. Metro GameCentral points out the absence of a proper story campaign, drawing a comparison to Diddy Kong Racing, which might leave some players wanting more narrative depth from the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that while the story in Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled may not be the most intricate or profound, it effectively sets the stage for the high-octane kart racing gameplay. Critics like Press Start Australia and Trusted Reviews appreciate the straightforward and engaging nature of the plot, which adds a layer of fun and urgency to the racing experience. However, critics such as Gamers' Temple and Metro GameCentral feel that the narrative could have been more fleshed out to provide a more immersive storytelling experience. In conclusion, while the story may not be the main highlight of the game, it serves its purpose in adding context and motivation to the gameplay, ultimately contributing to the overall enjoyment of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics praise Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled for its entertaining story that sets the stage for kart racing action, with engaging mini-movies and a fun plot involving saving Earth. However, some critics find the story lacking depth and serving mainly as a backdrop for gameplay. Overall, while the narrative may not be intricate, it adds urgency and fun to the racing experience, though some feel it could have been more fleshed out for a more immersive storytelling experience.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

96%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics had overwhelmingly positive opinions about the gameplay of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled. Many praised the challenging and skill-based mechanics, such as power-sliding and boosting, which added depth and excitement to the races. Critics like CGMagazine and Game Informer highlighted the addictive nature of the gameplay, with a high skill ceiling that rewarded mastery of techniques like power sliding and drifting. The precise track design, variety of power-ups, and zany weapons were also commended by reviewers like Digitally Downloaded and Gamers Heroes, emphasizing the level of skill involved in executing moves like Power Slide boosts and jumps for Hang Time Turbo. On the downside, some critics mentioned aspects that could be considered negatives by certain players. Destructoid pointed out a difficulty spike that might pose a challenge for some players, while Shacknews highlighted the high level of challenge that could be frustrating for casual players. Additionally, Video Chums noted that the difficulty in Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled was more challenging than the original game, with punishing enemy AI and easier wall collisions. These criticisms suggest that the game's difficulty level may not be suitable for all types of players, especially those looking for a more casual experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the gameplay of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled. The challenging and skill-based mechanics, along with the variety of modes and depth in control systems, were widely praised. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral even went as far as to say that the powerslide system in Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled is arguably better than that of Mario Kart, showcasing the high regard in which the gameplay is held. While some critics mentioned difficulty spikes and high levels of challenge as potential drawbacks, the overall sentiment is that the gameplay offers a rewarding and enjoyable experience for players who appreciate a skill-based approach to kart racing.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics raved about the challenging and skill-based gameplay of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled, praising mechanics like power-sliding and boosting. The game's addictive nature, precise track design, and variety of power-ups were highlighted, although some critics noted a difficulty spike that could frustrate casual players. Overall, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the depth and excitement the game offers for those who enjoy a skill-based kart racing experience.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

89%

Mixed (50-79)

11%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled, highlighting various positive aspects. Attack of the Fanboy commended the completely remade visuals and additional tracks, enhancing the overall visual experience. CGMagazine noted the graphical improvements, including enhanced textures, better lighting, new animations, and detailed backgrounds that added life to the game. Gameplanet complimented the remastered graphics and character models, describing them as gorgeously remade for 2019. The visuals were described as stunning, with modernized character models, lush environments, and improved visual effects by Game Over Online. The game was praised for its stunning visuals, vibrant colors, and attention to detail by Gamers Heroes. On the flip side, some critics pointed out certain negatives regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled. Cubed3 mentioned that while the game features vibrant colors and a cartoon-like aesthetic, it falls short of hitting 60fps, maintaining a rock solid 30fps. Trusted Reviews noted that while the game is visually gorgeous and filled with content, the color saturation can be excessive at times, washing out some detail. Wccftech highlighted that the locked 30fps on all platforms, combined with the lush visuals, may cause motion sickness for some players. Twinfinite mentioned that while the game features beautiful 4K visuals with detailed character models and vibrant lighting effects, it suffers from abysmal loading times on Xbox One X. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled. The game was praised for its stunning visuals, detailed course designs, vibrant colors, and attention to detail by multiple reviewers such as GameSpot, Press Start Australia, and Xbox Achievements. Critics appreciated the modernized character models, lush environments, and improved visual effects, with many noting the game's ability to evoke nostalgia while providing a visually appealing experience. Despite some minor drawbacks such as frame rate limitations and potential motion sickness issues, the overall sentiment leans heavily towards the game being a visual treat that enhances the racing experience for players across different platforms.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled wows critics with stunning remade visuals and vibrant colors, earning praise for detailed character models and lush environments. While some note frame rate limitations and potential motion sickness issues, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive for its visually appealing experience that enhances the racing thrill. Overall, a modernized visual treat that evokes nostalgia and impresses across platforms.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

73%

Mixed (50-79)

27%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled are largely positive. Game Over Online praises the improved audio fidelity, better voice work, and rewarding weapon blasts. Press Start Australia highlights the remade theme music, character voice quips, and celebratory dance moves that contribute to the nostalgic experience. New Game Network goes a step further, describing the music and sound design as excellent, fitting perfectly with the game's aesthetic and providing a unique charm and identity. XboxAddict also commends the audio design, mentioning the sounds of customized carts, characters, environment effects, and music as clear, upbeat, and enjoyable. On the other hand, Softpedia's review stands out as it mentions that the kart noises can become annoying quickly, without providing further details about the overall sound design or music of the game. This lack of elaboration on the sound design could be seen as a missed opportunity to provide a comprehensive analysis of the game's audio aspects. Additionally, some critics like Game Over Online note that while the audio is improved, the music in Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled may not be as memorable as other kart racers, suggesting a potential drawback in terms of creating lasting musical impressions for players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Sound Design and Music of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled are strong points of the game. The upbeat soundtracks, nostalgic experience, and well-implemented audio effects are highlighted by multiple reviewers such as Twinfinite, Xbox Achievements, and Video Chums. While there are minor criticisms regarding potential repetitiveness in the music and the lack of detailed analysis in some reviews, the general sentiment leans towards the positive side. The ability to switch between remastered and original soundtracks, along with the customization options for audio settings, seems to have resonated well with the critics, contributing to an overall enjoyable audio experience in the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics praise Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled for its impressive sound design and music, with improved audio fidelity, nostalgic themes, and fitting aesthetics earning high marks. However, some mention minor drawbacks like potential repetitiveness in music. Overall, the game's audio features receive positive feedback for enhancing the gameplay experience.

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

26%

Mixed (50-79)

70%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of technical performance on the PS4, the majority of critics highlighted positive aspects. Press Start Australia praised the game for being super polished and accurate, providing a smooth and stable experience with the addition of online functionality and split-screen mode enhancing stability. Gamers Heroes also noted a relatively painless and lag-free experience when finding races online. Moreover, CGMagazine mentioned that the netplay improved post-patch, resulting in smoother online racing without issues like teleporting or phasing. These positive comments indicate that the technical performance on the PS4, particularly in online play, has been commendable for most reviewers. On the other hand, some negative aspects of technical performance were noted on the PS4. New Game Network pointed out long load times that could hamper the pace of play, especially in adventure mode. Metro GameCentral expressed disappointment that the game runs at 30fps, which might be suboptimal for a fast-paced action game like Crash Team Racing. Softpedia also mentioned FPS drops during split-screen mode, indicating potential performance issues in certain gameplay scenarios. These criticisms suggest that while the technical performance on the PS4 has its strengths, there are areas that could be improved to enhance the overall gaming experience. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the technical performance of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled across all gaming platforms is generally positive. XboxAddict and Game Rant praised the polished online experience on Xbox One, highlighting the absence of lag or matchmaking issues. Similarly, Universo Nintendo noted improvements in long loading times on the Switch version post-patch. However, concerns were raised by multiple reviewers about lengthy loading times across platforms, including Nintendo Life, Pocket Gamer UK, and Stevivor. Despite some platform-specific issues, the overall sentiment leans towards a well-optimized game with enjoyable gameplay experiences, particularly in online modes. The developers' efforts to address technical issues through patches have been recognized positively by critics, indicating a commitment to enhancing the game's performance and stability post-launch.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics lauded Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled for its polished and stable technical performance on the PS4, with smooth online play and improved netplay post-patch. However, concerns were raised about long load times, 30fps frame rate, and FPS drops during split-screen mode. Across all platforms, reviewers praised the game's online experience but highlighted loading time issues. Despite some drawbacks, the game is well-optimized and offers enjoyable gameplay experiences, especially in online modes, with developers actively addressing technical issues through patches.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

73%

Mixed (50-79)

27%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics found the replay value of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled to be very good, highlighting its abundance of content and various modes that provide ample opportunities for players to keep coming back for more. Critics like Softpedia, who played on PS4, mentioned the tons of available game modes for both online and local multiplayer matches, indicating strong replayability. Additionally, GameGrin praised the variety of modes, including Adventure Mode, CTR Challenges, Relic Races, and more, both online and offline, contributing to the game's replay value. The inclusion of unlockables such as characters, skins, and car parts, as noted by Nintendo Insider, and the robust battle mode with various game types, as mentioned by Vooks, further enhance the replayability of the game. On the downside, some critics pointed out certain aspects that could detract from the overall replay value of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled. Wccftech noted that while the core content is of high quality, some of the extras like Crash Nitro Kart tracks and unlockable cosmetics may feel less inspired, potentially impacting the long-term engagement for players. Nintendo Insider highlighted that the Wumpa Coins earn rate feels slow, especially offline, which could lead to a grindy experience for players looking to unlock content. Push Square also mentioned the heavy emphasis on online play for earning in-game currency, which may be irksome for those who prefer offline modes, potentially limiting the replay value for certain players. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the replay value of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled. The game's extensive content, diverse modes, customization options, and planned free updates through Grand Prix events were widely praised, providing players with a compelling reason to keep returning to the game. Critics like GameSpot and Game Rant highlighted the abundance of content, including characters, cosmetics, and various game modes, contributing to the game's strong replay value. Despite some minor drawbacks mentioned by a few critics, the overall sentiment is that Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled offers a highly replayable experience that caters to both fans of the original and newcomers, ensuring long-term engagement and enjoyment for players across different platforms.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics rave about Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled's exceptional replay value due to its plethora of content, diverse modes, and unlockables like characters and skins. While some critics mention slow progression and heavy focus on online play as potential downsides, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The game's extensive features, customization options, and free updates ensure a highly replayable experience that appeals to both original fans and newcomers.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

88%

Mixed (50-79)

12%

Negative (0-49)

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

The critics unanimously praised Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled for its positive aspects. The game was lauded for its tight and challenging gameplay, beautiful visuals, solid gameplay mechanics, and a wealth of content. Critics such as Shacknews and Gameplanet highlighted the fantastic update of the classic game, with challenging gameplay, excellent graphics, and high replay value. The faithful recreation of the original game with modern updates was commended by IGN and Press Start Australia, making it a must-play for fans of kart racing games. Additionally, the inclusion of additional content, enhancements, and new challenges was appreciated by Attack of the Fanboy and Universo Nintendo, catering to both fans of the series and kart racing enthusiasts. On the flip side, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled. Issues like long loading times, occasional difficulty spikes, control adjustments, and CPU rubber banding were mentioned by reviewers such as Nintendo Life and GameGrin. The presence of some technical issues, difficulty imbalance, and occasional multiplayer problems were also highlighted by Stevivor and Worth Playing. Furthermore, concerns were raised about the online dependency for earning rewards, uninspired extras, and a grindy unlock system by Wccftech and Digitally Downloaded, which might impact the overall experience for some players. Despite the minor criticisms raised by some reviewers, the overall consensus among the critics was overwhelmingly positive regarding the overall verdict of Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled. The majority of critics considered the game to be a fantastic remake that successfully maintains the essence of the original while offering modern updates and additional content. The game was praised for its enjoyable gameplay, rewarding learning curve, hours of content, and high skill ceiling. With a blend of nostalgia and new features, Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled was deemed as one of the best kart racers available, surpassing expectations and providing a delightful experience for both fans and newcomers. The positive sentiment shared by critics like GameSpot, God is a Geek, and Game Over Online solidifies the game's reputation as a must-play title in the kart racing genre.

TL;DR

Critics unanimously praise Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled for its tight gameplay, stunning visuals, and wealth of content, calling it a fantastic remake that blends nostalgia with modern updates. While some critics noted drawbacks like long loading times and occasional difficulty spikes, the overall consensus remains overwhelmingly positive, with the majority hailing it as one of the best kart racers available. Fans of the series and newcomers alike can expect an enjoyable experience with high replay value, making it a must-play title in the genre.

CRITIK

Reviews

162 reviews found

100

Daily Star

PlayStation 4

Jun 24, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review gives the game a 5/5 rating and praises it as a remarkable remake that balances new content with the original game's charm.

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100

GamesRadar+

PlayStation 4

Jun 20, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Beenox has managed to take the original Crash Team Racing and somehow made it better. The game is a complete package from the start, and the inclusion of post-launch content adds even more value.

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Game Over Online

PlayStation 4

Aug 20, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled is the best-playing Crash racing game ever, offering a tremendous overall experience slightly behind Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 4

Jun 20, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer highly praises the game, stating that it has been rebuilt with love and attention to detail, and offers a nostalgic experience.

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We Got This Covered

PlayStation 4

Jul 1, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled is a charming and challenging kart racer that is a must-play for fans of the genre and Crash Bandicoot.

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Gameplanet

PlayStation 4

Jun 20, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer highly recommends Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled, stating that it proves there is a variety of experience enough to justify multiple contenders in the genre.

Universo Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

Oct 19, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review describes Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled as an excellent racing game and a great remake of a classic. It praises the gameplay and the constant addition of content and challenges.

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Nintendo Enthusiast

Nintendo Switch

Jun 26, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised as one of the best kart racers ever made, with a rewarding learning curve and hours of content.

God is a Geek

PlayStation 4

Jun 24, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled is a fantastic kart racer with great courses and plenty of replayability, despite some difficulty issues and awkward reversing.

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Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 4

Jun 20, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review overall praises Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled, calling it light-hearted, hugely entertaining, and a game that puts everything right after the disappointment of another recent kart racer. However, it mentions that the unlock system can feel like a chore.

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