Asphalt Overdrive

Pros

• Creative and engaging gameplay
• Easy-to-handle controls
• Retro 80s theme
• Multiple race types and car upgrades
• Interesting social modes

Cons

• Repetitive grinding
• Energy system limitations
• Potential wait times and in-app purchases

Overview

Asphalt Overdrive, a derivative of the widely-known Asphalt series, is an endless driving affair built around a fascinating 80s theme. From the house of Gameloft, this engaging title employs a gameplay approach that departs significantly from its racing-based predecessors.

Unique Gameplay

Unlike other editions of the Asphalt series, Asphalt Overdrive has a gameplay that aligns more with the endless running genre, akin to Gameloft's other successful titles like Despicable Me: Minion Rush or Spider-Man Unlimited. It's not a traditional racing game; instead, players are challenged to outrun the police by covering a certain distance while circumnavigating traffic and performing midair stunts.

Adopting a vertical three-lane scroll setup, the game offers several types of races such as boss races, chase sequences, stunts, and destructible objects on course. There are ample power boosts available during the course to keep engagements high.

In-Game Progression

Unmistakably mobile in its structure, Asphalt Overdrive employs an energy system that controls your game stamina, which exhausts after a fixed number of attempts, compelling either a respite or monetarily-fueled continuation. Furthermore, the game necessitates repetitive plays (or 'grind') to acquire more stars, which contribute to progression through the vibrant stages or 'turfs' in-game.

Car Upgrades & Social Modes

Car enhancements and upgrades form an integral part of Asphalt Overdrive. As you progress, upgrading your vehicle becomes imperative, and new ones can be purchased using the in-game currency won during races. The game boasts an impressive lineup of classical 80s cars, making the unlocking process even more rewarding.

Moreover, Asphalt Overdrive offers interesting social modes, including forming gangs with friends and engaging in contests against rival gangs, adding a competitive layer to the gameplay.

Controls & Strategy

Even for those not versed in driving games, navigating Asphalt Overdrive is quite simple thanks to the swipe controls. To add depth, tactical decisions play a crucial role in races; the correct usage of boosts, chosen prior to the race, can significantly impact your performance.

80s Themed Presentation

Gameloft has implemented its trademark high-standard game presentation in Asphalt Overdrive with a nod to the neon-filled 80s era. The aesthetics of the menu, the eclectic soundtrack, and the retro-themed cars all contribute to creating a gratifying 80s environment, although there is scope for further exploration of the retro theme.

Final Thoughts

Once you move past the routine grind, load times and in-game purchases, Asphalt Overdrive emerges as a highly enjoyable, if not traditional, driving adventure. Its unique gameplay, easy controls, immersive 80s theme, and extensive car lineup make it a fast-paced game suitable for quick engagements, despite small hindrances.

Pros

• Creative and engaging gameplay
• Easy-to-handle controls
• Retro 80s theme
• Multiple race types and car upgrades
• Interesting social modes

Cons

• Repetitive grinding
• Energy system limitations
• Potential wait times and in-app purchases