D1GP game review: decent
 

It's not that new of a game but if you're not into drifting, you've probably never heard of it. Yukes (a D1 sponsor) developed a game simply called D1GP (not to be confused with the Formula d series). And quite honestly, that's all it is. If you're not into drifting, stay away from this game. The closest thing to racing available is doing a time attack under the "quick race" tab. However, if you're looking for a good grip racing experience, this game isn't for you.

Every car in the game is RWD specifically tuned for drift. So, while going straight isn't impossible, it's more trouble than it's worth. Also, the cars pretty much come as is. The only difference between "Proffessional", "Expert", and "Begginner" level cars is the amount of allowable tuning and the amount of stickers. Pro cars are (obviously) slathered with sponsor decals while expert and begginner cars are farely bare. Expert level has 14 pts of tune while begginner only has two. And whatever the pros drive is what you're gonna drive, just minus the outwardly appearance. Meaning, the body lines of the pro car (kits and whatnot) transcends down to the beg. level. Not to worry tho. The kits aren't wild or obnoxious like F&F. All that's to say if you don't like a pro car kit, then you just won't like the car.

You have various color and wheel options and there's a wing delete. That's about as much body work as you're gonna get to do. There's only 1 wing also; take it or leave it. Also, for the wheels, they even have steelies for the true "dorifto" grass roots enthusiast.

The graphics are pretty decent and the replays are okay. Nothing spectacular. As far as replays go.

Gameplay is nice. It isn't Gran Turismo but it ain't Outrun either. Music is dry and stoich after a while though. As far as actual drifting is concerned, the simulation is very realistic. Damage comes in the form of lost front and/or rear fascias and side skirts. And, unlike other games, this game does have (and use) a clutch button. But it's not to shift gears. It's for clutch kits to sustain drifts.

The tuts are nice and might actually help someone if they wanted to get into pro drifting. Definately informative.

Overall, it's an entertaining game...IF you're into drifting. If you're not, I wouldn't suggest this because that's all you do. For any game makers first try at a STRICTLY drift game, they didn't do too bad. However, if you want a more well rounded race game, this isn't for you. However, for the GT, Fornza, and GCR hardcores, I'd definatley give this game a rent at blockbuster. It's interesting to see how different drifting while racing and drifting strictly for show really is. HUGE difference.

Decent game. I give it 3 1/2 stars (out of 5)

Here's a link for some screen shots and...blah blah blah. http://www.yukes.us/d1-game-usa/index.html