New Star GP

It feels like it’s still got some room to grow in certain places in order to reach its full potential, but, unlike real world F1 in 2024, it’s pretty damn fun.

That said, while we realise this is rare for the genre, qualifying before races would be nice. Perks like starting races in 9th place don't provide a real substitute. Furthermore, online multiplayer's omission is also disappointing, though at least there's local multiplayer for up to four players. These aren't deal breakers, though, and when the core campaign is this good, New Star GP comes recommended.

New Star GP pays homage to the days of Virtua Racing with a brilliant F1-style racer that retains the same compelling moreishness its studio is known for. Its performance is a bit clunky to the point that it's noticeable quite often, but that shouldn't put you off buying yet another New Star gem.

New Star GP is a surprisingly deep, incredibly addictive racing game that offers a reasonable mix between arcade and simulation style. Upgrading your ride and maintaining your relationship with your crew offers some interesting gameplay mechanic. However, as with a lot of racing games, it does require a bit of practice given that A.I. racers are out for blood. New Star GP is a must play for all racing fans; new or old.

Racing games take themselves too seriously. Furthermore, you have to micromanage every detail and that drives me insane. Luckily, this game is different. It focuses on hard racing and oodles of fun. What’s more, it is addictive and devilishly retro. Accordingly, I recommend buying it here! Can the rookie overcome the odds and become a champion? Choose your upgrades, tackle your foes, and win every race.

New Star GP goes past initial expectations to deliver a very well-crafted racing game. The arcade simulation mix in the racing feels great, and while there are only two modes, they're both so well done that the title doesn't feel like it needs more modes. The lack of online play is a shame, but the omission of manual transmission will turn off those who can only drive that way. For everyone else who isn't craving a pure simulation experience, New Star GP is well worth your time.

New Star GP is adorably retro in its visuals and vibes, but it’s got some surprising amount of depth and an interesting career mode. A little hidden gem in the racing scene, without a doubt.

New Star GP is the sort of racing game that comes every now and then that truly gets a hold of me and is unwilling to let go until it has its way with me. Last time I felt this strongly about the genre was with the very first Gran Turismo on the PlayStation, and prior to that, the arcade version of Daytona USA. If you have any interest in arcade gaming and are willing to invest some time into surprisingly meatier career mode, New Star GP will have you covered for a while.

New Star GP is fun, addictive, and immediately grabs you with its intuitiveness and accessibility. But at the same time, it does grow tiresome over time. The basic formula is so repetitive that you might not play it one day and forget about it the next. Of course, the split-screen is a great addition and there's no shortage of content, but it lacked one very important thing that you won't find here: online multiplayer.

In the end, though, those little annoyances fade away when you’re in a tense battle for the lead, and when you cross the line after a win, they’re not in your mind at all. This game is arcade racing at its best, and while I know that’s not for everyone, there’s something truly nostalgic about this game while still feeling like a fresh take on the genre.