System: PS Vita
Dev: SCE Studio Liverpool
Pub: SCEA
Release: February 15, 2012
Players: 1
Screen Resolution: N/A	Fantasy Violence

Of course, when I fired WipEout 2048 up for the first time, I was instantly impressed with the intricate cityscapes. Each individual level has its own graphical look and feel, but the details actually feel oppressive at times.

However, the fact that WipEout is the only game that actually tests the Vita's graphical capability is more an indictment on the other launch titles rather than a compliment about WipEout's graphics. Sure, they look great and are somewhat impressive on the Vita's tiny frame. But they're significantly less interesting than previous editions. In fact, if we're being entirely honest, WipEout 2048 looks like it could have easily found a home on the PS2 in a different life.

This isn't to say that the graphics aren't appropriate. They are. But graphics can be appropriate without being impressive, and, considering the inordinately long load times, they really should be more impressive.

Also, I should mention that it only runs at 30 FPS, which will most likely force your lips into a frustrated frown if you've been gaming on your PS3 recently.

Unfortunately, the logical side of me thinks that WipEout 2048 is going to have a short life on the same shelf with triple-A titles like Uncharted: Golden Abyss and Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3. Sure, the multiplayer is interesting and the unlocks might keep some gamers entertained for a while, but it won't be long before playing the same ten tracks on repeat becomes fairly monotonous.

Also, if you're even remotely competent behind the wheel, you should have no problem winning every single race. Simply keep the throttle on full and avoid the walls. Very little thought is required.

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Now here's the thing: WipEout 2048 is an interesting little title with a surprising amount of depth for a game that's so shallow in the content department. The graphics are rock solid and the controls are everything you would expect. However, the drawbacks are almost too much to ignore.

If you've got $40 to spare or you're waiting for the next triple-A Vita title to drop, it might be good for a few laughs. But it's probably not going to last more than a few hours, which makes it an expensive investment when compared to most of your other options.

By Josh Engen Contributing Writer @JoshEngen Date: February 16, 2012