Burnout Crash! has been a divisive entry in the Burnout franchise. While some players and critics have praised it for its unique take on the series, many others have voiced disappointment, feeling it strays too far from what made Burnout so beloved. However, despite the common criticisms, I found the game to be a refreshingly fun experience that offered a different kind of challenge and excitement. In this humble blog post of mine, I’ll address some of the most common complaints and explain why, personally, I enjoyed Burnout Crash! far more than expected.
Please Note: It seems you can still buy the game for the PS3. You might need to use some legal grey methods to get it for the Xbox 360.
Criticism #1: Repetitive Gameplay
One of the most frequent criticisms of Burnout Crash! is the game’s repetitive nature. Critics argue that the core gameplay doesn’t evolve much over time, and after a few stages, it becomes clear that the formula remains largely the same throughout. The objective of causing maximum destruction by crashing into vehicles and triggering chain reactions does not change, and for some, this lack of variety may seem monotonous.
My Response: Embracing the Simplicity
While it’s true that Burnout Crash! doesn’t introduce drastic changes as you progress, I see this as a feature rather than a flaw. The simplicity of the core gameplay loop is part of the charm, and I found that it allowed me to focus on refining my skills and experimenting with different strategies. The strategic choices, like choosing vehicles with different aftertouch abilities or figuring out how to maximize the damage with chain reactions, kept me engaged. The progression isn’t about unlocking new mechanics—it’s about mastering what you have, and I appreciated this focused challenge.
For me, the satisfaction came from achieving a perfect crash and watching the chaos unfold. There’s a certain joy in causing mayhem without the distraction of overly complex mechanics or constant novelty. In a way, the game’s repetition becomes a meditative exercise, where the joy lies in improving your performance each time.
Criticism #2: Lack of Traditional Multiplayer
Another commonly raised issue with Burnout Crash! is its lack of a traditional multiplayer mode. Players who enjoyed the competitive racing of earlier Burnout titles were disappointed that this game, unlike its predecessors, does not include a head-to-head multiplayer option. Many expected online battles or even local splitscreen play to be a part of the package, but instead, Burnout Crash! offers only the ability to compare scores via leaderboards or use the Autolog system for time trials.
My Response: Leaderboards Are Still Competitive
While I can understand the frustration with the lack of a more robust multiplayer experience, I didn’t find this to be as big of an issue as others did. The competitive aspect of Burnout Crash! is still alive and well through the game’s leaderboards. Competing for high scores and comparing my performances with friends kept me invested. Though not a direct, real-time competition, it still provided a form of competitive play that encouraged me to improve my skills to outdo others.
Moreover, the absence of multiplayer didn’t take away from the core experience. The game’s main draw for me was the single-player challenge, which was more than enough to keep me entertained. I also enjoyed the solitary satisfaction of perfecting my crashes without the pressure of racing against someone else.
Criticism #3: Limited Game Modes
Some players criticized Burnout Crash! for its relatively small selection of game modes. Critics point out that there are only three basic modes to choose from: Road Trip, Rush Hour, and Pile Up. Each mode involves a variation on the core gameplay—causing destruction at traffic intersections—but this has been seen as insufficient for a game that carries the Burnout name. The expectation was for more game modes that would provide varied and dynamic experiences, especially for a downloadable title.
My Response: Quality Over Quantity
Again, I think the game’s simplicity is a strength, not a weakness. While Burnout Crash! doesn’t feature an abundance of game modes, the three it does have are executed extremely well. Each mode offers different challenges, from surviving a traffic jam in Road Trip to causing as much destruction as possible in Rush Hour. These variations were enough to keep me entertained, and each mode allowed me to approach the destruction in a slightly different way. The goal of the game is clear: cause chaos and have fun, and Burnout Crash! does just that.
I also appreciated the way the game kept things fresh within its limited set of modes. As I unlocked new vehicles and faced increasingly difficult challenges, it felt like the game was constantly pushing me to improve. Even if the modes are basic, the game’s ability to keep me coming back for “just one more round” speaks to its addictive nature.
Criticism #4: Basic Graphics and Presentation
Visually, Burnout Crash! has been seen as underwhelming. Critics have mentioned that the game’s graphics are not as detailed or polished as some might expect from a game in the Burnout franchise. Given the relatively simple top-down perspective, the visuals might seem somewhat basic, and the lack of intricate detail in the environments can detract from the experience for some players.
My Response: Aesthetics for the Gameplay
I’m not bothered by the graphics. The top-down view and basic visual style actually work to the game’s advantage. The focus is on destruction, and the simplicity of the visuals makes it easy to follow the action. It’s not trying to be an ultra-realistic racing simulator, and I’m fine with that. The art style is functional, and the lack of intricate detail doesn’t hinder gameplay or enjoyment.
Furthermore, the soundtrack, featuring energetic tracks and quirky radio shows, adds a lot to the atmosphere. The humor and excitement conveyed through the sound design kept me engaged in a way that the graphics alone might not have done.
Conclusion: Burnout Crash! Is Still Worth Playing
Despite the critiques, I found Burnout Crash! to be a thrilling and fun arcade experience. It’s not the traditional racing game fans might have been hoping for, but it offers a refreshing twist that focuses on the fun of destruction. The game’s simplicity is its strength, and the lack of advanced modes or multiplayer didn’t detract from my enjoyment. In fact, it enhanced the focused, high-reward gameplay that I appreciated.
If you’re looking for a game that offers deep complexity and a traditional Burnout experience, you might be disappointed. But if you’re looking for an arcade-style challenge with plenty of chaos and destruction, Burnout Crash! is definitely worth your time.
