For those who lived through the golden age of kart racers, the name “Crash Team Racing” evokes a rush of nostalgia. Now, with Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled (CTRNF-PS4) for PlayStation 4, that nostalgia is amplified, enhanced, and delivered with a modern twist that captures the spirit of the original while expanding its horizons considerably.

This isn’t just a simple remaster; it’s a complete package. The core gameplay remains true to the original CTR, boasting tight controls, satisfying power-ups, and exhilarating track designs. But CTRNF-PS4 adds a generous helping of new content. We’re talking additional karts, tracks from beyond the original game’s roster (including the exciting Drive-Thru Danger track), and a plethora of customization options. The inclusion of online multiplayer with global leaderboards adds a competitive edge, keeping the racing intense and the replayability sky-high. The ability to race locally with friends adds to the fun too. Unlocking Emperor Velo adds another layer to the experience, a testament to the game’s depth.

The game runs smoothly on the PS4. The visuals are sharp and vibrant, a welcome upgrade from the original’s PlayStation aesthetic. Load times are minimal, and there’s been very little lag experienced during online play, even during peak times. The responsiveness of the controls is excellent; drifting and boosting feel intuitive and responsive. The game’s audio is also on point, with upbeat music and satisfying sound effects that punctuate every crash, boost, and victory.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Excellent remaster, faithful to the original but with substantial additions, intuitive controls, smooth performance, vibrant visuals, engaging online multiplayer, tons of customization options.
• Cons: Some might find the initial learning curve slightly steep, the game is quite challenging initially, and the amount of content could be overwhelming for some players.

Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled (CTRNF-PS4) isn’t just a nostalgic trip; it’s a thrilling, expertly crafted kart racer that stands tall among its contemporaries. Whether you’re a veteran of the original or a newcomer to the series, this is a must-have title. The combination of nostalgic charm, modern enhancements, and addictive gameplay makes it a truly exceptional experience. I wholeheartedly recommend it.