KMGR of "Alpine Racer 3D"

Image via WikipediaAlpine Racer 3D is a cute little 3D title to show off what your cellphone can do with the right programming. It's a shame that it has only 3 tracks...

The premise? You don't need a premise with something as simple as a race, but this game *does* have a story mode... Brother, sister, and a mysterious super competitor, who turned out to be their father, all racing downhill for the coveted "king of the mountain" trophy. Take control of either the brother or sister (unlock father and one other character later), play well (no falls, break records) to gain "skill points" to expand your avatar's capabilities, and take on the course(s). There's story mode, where you play 3 races (trials, semi-finals, and finals), and time trial where you choose which track to race.

The graphics are excellent for a cellphone title. Frame rate is superb, and the 3rd person camera shows off the animations, which are varied. The courses often have varied paths as well... And to win you'll need to know the "shortcuts". Those who can retain the speed can opt for the jump routes, while those who prefer to outski can turn for the downhill. Each track has multiple paths that diverge and converge.
The music, on the other hand, isn't quite as good, and the plot, as slightly spoiled before, is way too sappy and comical (read: melodramatic).

Controls are quite responsive, though it wasn't always clear what keeps the momentum going, and how one route would be faster than the other. Would a series of shallow turns, or one single sharp turn be faster? No idea. Game doesn't tell you.

All in all, Alpine Racer 3D is a good evolution to the classic franchise, if a bit too... melodramatic. The game itself is excellent with responsive controls and great visuals. Too bad the rest of the game doesn't really measure up.

Overall rating: 7.5 out of 10
Pros: great 3D graphics, very responsive controls, sense of speed
Cons: only 3 racing courses? only 4 characters to play with?