Review By: Jared Black
Developer:	Nintendo
Publisher:	Nintendo
# of Players:	1-4 (Link Cable)
Genre:	Racing
ESRB:	Everyone
Date Posted:	6-11-01

The graphics are nice, but don’t match up to other GBA launch titles. Since the game is so fast, the graphics have to be somewhat sparse in order to deliver that sense of speed. However, you’ll find minor graphic enhancements throughout the game. The car models look better, the tracks look better, and track backgrounds are more detailed. On the whole though, you won’t be dazzled by the graphics. The F-Zero series has always emphasized speed over looks, and that’s the case here.

Much like the graphics, the sound department features minor enhancements over the SNES version. The music sounds richer and deeper, as it’s in full stereo and also features bits of old F-Zero tunes thrown in for nostalgic measure. The sound effects are also top-notch, as you’ll be able to tell from which side an opponent is approaching you simply by listening to their engine. Other sound effects are better as well, particularly the explosions (a very nice "BOOM!" accompanies each crash). However, it’s worth noting that you’ll only experience this stereo aural delight with a pair of headphones, as the GBA speaker is poop and only outputs in low-volume mono.

As far as extras are concerned, F-Zero definitely delivers. You’ll initially choose from four different racers, but you can unlock an additional six (all with different capabilities in turning, balance, top speed, etc.) as you advance (bad pun intended) in the game. There are three circuits initially available (with five courses each), with an additional one (featuring pretty unique courses) unlockable. There are also three difficulty levels, with another one unlockable for each circuit. There are five different gameplay modes, including Grand Prix (race through an entire circuit), Training (practice each course), Multipak link (if all GBAs have a copy of F-Zero, then all tracks and hovercraft are available), Single-Pak Link (if only one GBA has a copy of F-Zero, then only one track is available), and Championship mode (Time Attack).

Highs:

• Blistering-fast speed.
• Time-tested gameplay.
• Lots of extras to unlock.

Lows:

• Controls a little looser than the SNES version.
• A.I. can be frustrating at times.

Final Verdict:

F-Zero: Maximum Velocity definitely delivers. No racing game, despite being on a smaller screen, has given me the sheer sense of excitement (I’ve literally had to put the GBA down and wipe the sweat off of my forehead) that this game has in a long time. It’s a great racing game, with plenty of depth and extras to keep you playing for a while. It won’t dazzle you with outstanding visuals or innovative new gameplay, but it’s still wickedly fun and highly addictive. Unless you absolutely hate the series, it’s definitely worth a purchase.

Overall Score: 8.6