Critique: Fusion of Power and Precision

Exploring the Potential of Joy-Con Gimmicks

In recent years, Nintendo has played it safe by consistently releasing games from franchises known for their strong sales, like Mario, Zelda, Animal Crossing, and even Kirby. The company rarely ventures into creating new franchises, and while this caution is understandable—considering the risk involved—it occasionally leads to successful experiments like Splatoon or less successful attempts like ARMS. With the introduction of new hardware, Nintendo presented Drag x Drive, initially perceived as a technical demo showcasing new capabilities. However, it’s a complete game that Nintendo believes in, despite it not being a AAA production. During the Switch 2 demo events, attendees gave mixed feedback, praising the innovative use of the joy-con’s mouse function, but noting repetitive gameplay. This left many unsure whether the game would succeed or fade into obscurity.

During its announcement, no release date was provided; it was only mentioned to launch in the summer, shortly after the releases of Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza. The release date was later revealed through the Nintendo Today app. Before players could purchase it, a trial period was available for Switch Online users, allowing them to familiarize themselves with its unique mechanics, which mix vehicles and basketball. This trial positively impacted initial impressions, but it wasn’t enough to convince everyone. We received a review code from Nintendo, enabling us to explore the game thoroughly and offer our verdict on its value.

The crucial question is whether Drag x Drive can become an iconic Nintendo saga or just another forgettable gimmick game. We delve into this question in a detailed Atomix Review, exploring its potential to captivate players.

Practice Mode’s Challenges

Drag x Drive can be considered a sports game, but with a unique twist somewhat akin to Rocket League, though less frenetic. The gameplay focuses more on control than the spectacle found in Epic Games’ property. The game uses basketball as its basis but introduces vehicles, specifically wheelchairs, activated using one of Switch 2’s main gimmicks—the Joy-Con mouse mode, which remains largely unexploited.

Despite seeming complicated, the control scheme is straightforward. This is evident in the single-player practice mode, set in an open area for players to hone skills and speeds in preparation for online matches. Players move by placing both Joy-Cons on a flat surface and moving them forward or backward, depending on their goal. Movement duration depends on force and length of input.

Additional abilities include braking with both hands, maneuvering the wheelchair to dodge obstacles, and shooting by raising the Joy-Con. The training room offers various activities like speed races, high rebounds, and half-pipe jumps, rewarding players with trophies and new avatar helmets upon breaking records.

Aiming for Excellence

Entering Drag x Drive matches involves two methods: the public park, an online version of the practice area with various players, or a friends-only room, allowing play exclusively with console-added friends. Matches consist of up to three-vs-three players, with the objective of scoring baskets by shooting from different angles. Close shots score two points, but distant ones can earn three, and trick shots like dunks offer 2.5 points.

Matches last three minutes and rely on teamwork, as solo attempts are less effective. A team loses possession if they hold the ball for over 14 seconds. Playing with friends is more entertaining, especially using Gamechat for better coordination.

Players can choose from three avatar types: Base, for speed; Pívot, for strength and long shots; and Ala, for balanced play. Up to twelve players can join a general or friends room, where two games can happen simultaneously. If under capacity, the game auto-balances players.

While enjoyable, a greater variety of courts with different terrains would add depth and challenge. Initial expectations were low, especially accessing multiplayer with a review code, but competing against real players proved interesting. Using Gamechat can enhance the satisfaction of mastering the repetitive gameplay.

Lacking Nintendo’s Charisma

Graphically, Drag x Drive falls short of Nintendo’s renowned charm; its characters appear generic, resembling placeholders rather than memorable figures. Perhaps it’s our expectation for distinct creativity or Nintendo’s consistent delivery of iconic designs, evidenced by recent successes like Splatoon, known for its unique Inklings and vibrant world.

The game’s colors feel muted and uninspiring, failing to engage players visually. While gameplay remains the crux, its aesthetics are crucial for supporting this simpler title, which remains reasonably priced rather than a full-priced experience.

Performance-wise, the game is technically sound, maintaining fluid 60fps with high-quality visuals on TV and handheld. The urban-themed music suits the game’s energetic style, though none stood out memorably for me.

Ultimately, Drag x Drive is a commendable effort exploring Joy-Con innovations, providing a glimpse of future possibilities. It’s fun, especially online, though the single player is limited to tutorials for honing skills before facing real challenges. While the art fails to match Nintendo’s magic, the game’s low price ensures it offers satisfactory entertainment. For a game exploiting the Switch 2’s mouse function, it’s worth a try, especially with friends. However, those seeking a AAA game with personality might consider waiting for future releases.

Drag x Drive launches on August 14 in digital format only.