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Hotshot Racing

Hotshot Racing

August 13, 2020
Curve Digital
4.2/5.0(1,715 reviews)

Genres

Driving/Racing

Themes

light-heartedcomediccompetitionfriendship

Mechanics

real-timelinearcombatranged-combatcustomizationexplorationpuzzle-solvingtime-managementachievements
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About This Game

A deliberate revival of the Sega arcade racer, Hotshot Racing rebuilds the look and feel of Daytona USA, OutRun, and Virtua Racing in stark low-poly polygons and blue-sky environments. Speed is everything: drifting and slipstreaming both charge a single boost meter, so the racing line becomes a constant calculation of when to slide, when to tuck in behind a rival, and when to spend the gauge. Four-player split-screen and eight-player online extend that loop, alongside party variants like Cops and Robbers and Drive or Explode.

Reviews land warm on the homage and cooler on the substance. The retro presentation, sense of speed, and local multiplayer draw consistent praise, but the recurring complaints are a thin spread of tracks and rubber-banding AI that keeps opponents glued to the player regardless of a clean run. Rated E10+ and included on PS Plus Extra, it suits nostalgics and a full couch more than anyone after a deep solo campaign.

Highlights

  • Bright, retro-inspired visuals reminiscent of 90s arcade games
  • Fast-paced, arcade-style racing with a focus on drifting
  • Supports online multiplayer for thrilling competition
  • Featuring a variety of distinct characters with unique vehicles
  • Multiple game modes including time trials and championships
  • Catchy and upbeat soundtrack enhances the racing experience
  • Local multiplayer support for split-screen racing fun

Platforms

PS4

Multiplayer

Online Players:8
Local Players:4
Co-op Supported

Game Information

ESRB Rating:ESRB Everyone 10+
Languages:
Chinese (Simplified)Chinese (Traditional)EnglishFrench (France)GermanJapaneseKoreanPolishPortuguese (Brazil)RussianSpanish

Gameplay

Modes
Single playerMultiplayerCo-operativeSplit screen
Perspective
First personThird person

Player Reviews

Mixed

Overall, player feedback on Hotshot Racing is largely positive, with many praising its fun arcade-style gameplay, graphics, and sense of speed. However, some players criticize the lack of content and issues with AI mechanics and rubber-banding, leading to a mixed reception.

Pros

  • • Fun and engaging arcade racing experience
  • • Colorful graphics and pleasant visuals
  • • Good sense of speed and driving mechanics
  • • Well-suited for multiplayer or party play
  • • Simple controls that appeal to a broad audience

Cons

  • • Limited content with only 20 tracks and no story
  • • AI behavior perceived as unfair with rubber-banding
  • • Customization options are solely cosmetic
  • • Lack of depth in race progression and vehicle diversity
  • • Some players report control responsiveness issues

Based on 21 reviews from steam

Screenshots

Gameplay Video

Hotshot Racing -- Gameplay (PS4)

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Hotshot Racing — Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hotshot Racing worth playing?
Hotshot Racing has a mixed reception from players, holding an average score of 4.2 out of 5 across 1,715 reviews.
Is Hotshot Racing included with PlayStation Plus?
Yes — Hotshot Racing is part of the PlayStation Plus Extra game catalogue, so subscribers on that tier can play it at no extra cost.
Is Hotshot Racing single-player or multiplayer?
Hotshot Racing supports single player, multiplayer, co-operative, and split screen. Online play supports up to 8 players. Local play supports up to 4 players.
What platforms is Hotshot Racing available on?
Hotshot Racing is available on PS4.
When did Hotshot Racing release?
Hotshot Racing released on August 13, 2020.
What is Hotshot Racing's age rating?
Hotshot Racing carries an ESRB rating of ESRB Everyone 10+.
Hotshot Racing - Fast-Paced Retro Arcade Racing Game