Indianapolis 500 Legends Review for the Nintendo Wii

System: Wii, DS	Review Rating Legend
Dev: Torus Games	1.0 - 1.9 = Avoid	4.0 - 4.4 = Great
Pub: Destineer	2.0 - 2.4 = Poor	4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
Release: Dec. 14, 2007	2.5 - 2.9 = Average	5.0 = The Best
Players: 1-2	3.0 - 3.4 = Fair
ESRB Rating: Everyone	3.5 - 3.9 = Good

The game's visual style is also reminiscent of past generations. It could be considered passable by Wii standards, but it honestly reminds me of something I would expect from the GameCube. Another issue I have with the visuals in this game is how homogeneous they are. The tracks and cars all look very similar, and it really takes something away from the game, which would greatly benefit from some increased visual variety.

Indianapolis 500 Legends screenshot

The sound is also in need of some variety, as it too suffers from repetitive monotony. Each year features a generic-sounding tune that loops every 30- 45 seconds and is generally agitating to listen to. The engine sounds from the vehicles are also quite generic sounding and don't really give the classic vehicles represented their classic sounds.

The only strength of this game lies in it's historical value. The game includes some pretty big names in racing (A.J. Foyt, Johnny Rutherford, and the Unser brothers to name a few) and has a fair amount of detail about their rivalries and important events in their careers. The game also uses actual footage from classic Indianapolis 500 events, and it all looks pretty good. So if Indianapolis 500 history is your thing, then you'll find a lot in this game to be happy about.

Overall, Indianapolis 500 Legends is a pretty dull game. Almost every facet of this game feels monotonous and could even be described as boring. This game will only probably appeal to those who would look into it for its historical value. The history that was put into the game is the only real facet of the game that really feels right, and if you're not interested in that, then you probably won't enjoy this game in any sense.

By Amanda Kondolojy
CCC Freelance Writer

Features:

Experience historic moments in Indy racing history with Mission-Based Racing:

Drive the first rear-engine Lotus-Ford, shatter records in Parnelli Jones' turbine-powered car and relive the rivalries between some of history's greatest drivers! Survive infamous crashes, experience the most thrilling come-behind victories, and more!

Pit lane mini-games based upon actual pit stop activities. Use the stylus to change the tires, fill the gas tank, and even put out fires!

Over 30 real cars and drivers spanning the years 1961-1971. Unlock new cars and memorabilia as you progress through the years and experience the evolution of the Indy 500 track first-hand!

RATING OUT OF 5

RATING DESCRIPTION

2.4

Graphics
A little below average for the Wii. Everything looks very generic, including tracks and cars

3.5

Control
Steering wheel mechanics and mini-games work well enough with the Wii-mote, but the game suffers overall from a lack of any real precision.

2.0

Music / Sound FX / Voice Acting
Very generic tunes accompany each year of gameplay, and engine sounds are repetitive and annoying.

3.0

Play Value
This game will definitely appeal to those with an interest about the history of the Indianapolis 500. But if you're looking for gameplay, drive on.

2.3

Overall Rating - Poor
Not an average. See Rating legend above for a final score breakdown.