When LEGO and 2K Games first announced their collaboration on an open-world racing game, LEGO 2K Drive, the excitement was high, albeit mixed with a bit of confusion given the established 'LEGO Racers' brand heritage. Nonetheless, the resulting title has shaped up to be an adventure that places as much emphasis on exploration and side activities as it does on racing itself.
At its core, LEGO 2K Drive is an invitation to indulge in the playful world of LEGO through a digital lens, reminiscent of the creative freedom posited by titles such as Forza Horizon. Set in a universe constructed almost entirely of LEGO bricks, the game offers four diverse open-world environments, each encouraging players to race, jump, and drift their way through various challenges.
What sets LEGO 2K Drive apart from many other racers is its focus on variety. Instead of striving for a relentless first-place finish, the game's most memorable moments arise from its quirky side missions, such as herding blue pigs or fending off robot attackers. These missions inject a lighthearted and refreshing change of pace from the standard racing formula.
The game's main campaign revolves around a series of races that lean towards an arcade-style driving experience, incorporating power-ups and boost pads reminisce of Mario Kart. It is worth noting that the racing mechanics can feel chaotic at times, veering away from the precision that some racing purists may expect, but the game's whimsy remains entertaining.
Aimed at a family audience, LEGO 2K Drive features a narrative campaign filled with ample tutorials and guidance. While it may feel a bit handholding initially, the game's true allure unfolds as it progresses; the characters, brimming with lighthearted humor, enhance the overall jovial atmosphere.
A shining element of the LEGO series is the building and customization opportunities it offers, which LEGO 2K Drive carries over to its vehicle design. Players can visit the 'Body Shop' where they can construct their dream vehicles, brick by brick, adding colors and enhancements to tailor their machines to their preferences. While this feature may appeal especially to those who enjoy the physical act of building with LEGOs, it is an optional component in a game that boasts a fleet of diverse vehicles from off-roaders to boats, all of which adapt to different terrains in real-time.
Despite the fun factor, LEGO 2K Drive isn't without its criticisms. The game can feel less than a 'AAA' title with its relatively short main campaign, simple cutscenes, and somewhat basic menu design that may not justify its premium price point. These elements combine to present a game that feels more 'AA' despite its higher cost.
Running on Xbox Series X, LEGO 2K Drive delivers a solid performance with smooth 60FPS gameplay and vibrant visuals. Although the game may not boast the highest resolution or most detailed graphics, its performance and colorful aesthetic suit its family-focused gameplay.
Diving into accessibility, LEGO 2K Drive includes various features to accommodate different players, such as navigational map assists, customizable difficulty settings, visual cues, control customization, and fully subtitled speech, among other options. These features ensure that the enjoyable experience of LEGO 2K Drive is approachable and pleasant for a broad audience.
As LEGO 2K Drive now joins Xbox Game Pass, it offers an opportunity for subscribers to experience the LEGO-themed racing universe without additional cost. The game's whimsical side missions, accessible gameplay, and creative building elements provide a compact yet enjoyable package that families and LEGO enthusiasts alike may find endearing.
In bringing together the worlds of LEGO and racing games, LEGO 2K Drive may not reinvent the wheel but instead offers a fresh and family-friendly take on open-world racing games. While some may hold off for price reductions, it remains an engaging option for players looking for an approachable and light-hearted racing experience. Whether customizing their vehicles in the Body Shop or undertaking the assorted side missions beyond the race tracks, LEGO 2K Drive reinforces that sometimes, it's the simple joy of taking part that truly counts.
You must be logged in to post a comment!
