Woody Woodpecker Racing Review: A Unique and Frustrating Experience
Let’s talk about Woody Woodpecker Racing, a game that features one of the most annoying characters in animation history. Created to be deliberately irritating, Woody Woodpecker is like a mischievous version of Bugs Bunny or a less charismatic Joker from Batman. Personally, I despise him, which is why I purchased Woody Woodpecker Racing for PS1 and Windows. I wanted a constant reminder of the torment I endure in this world.
Surprisingly, the developers of the game don’t seem to be big fans of the character either, as he isn’t the biggest issue with the game. As a non-fan, let me explain Woody Woodpecker’s infuriating nature. Most of his cartoons involve him pestering others until they’re provoked to violence. It’s as if his creators were awakened early one morning by a woodpecker outside their window and decided to make it everyone’s problem. For example, if a walrus named Wally just wants to enjoy breakfast at his favorite diner, Woody Woodpecker would come in and cause chaos, tormenting Wally with incessant annoying behavior. Eventually, Wally gets thrown out of the diner while Woody continues his derisive laughter.
The catchphrase of Woody Woodpecker, which sounds like obnoxious laughter set to a terrible melody, was likely designed to encourage children to annoy their parents and provoke fights. Personally, I find it grating and despise the character even more.
Thankfully, you don’t need to be familiar with Woody Woodpecker’s cartoons to understand Woody Woodpecker Racing. The game follows the same formula as Mario Kart but replaces the characters with Woody Woodpecker and his friends. The “Quest” mode lacks any cutscenes or storyline, sparing players from excessive exposure to the character’s piercing voice. I was relieved to find that the audio design doesn’t drown out the soundtrack with cartoonish screams.
Despite its lack of originality, with generic kart racing gameplay, the game is still surprisingly tolerable. Considering my low expectations, I appreciate the absence of a painful woodpecker-centric experience.
One aspect that differentiates Woody Woodpecker Racing from other kart racers is the range of vehicles available, including open-wheeled racers, stock cars, monster trucks, and jalopies. Although they all control the same, the visual variety is a welcomed addition. The game also features 16 tracks that, while mostly variations of circles, still offer some variation.
However, the weapons available in the game are disappointing. They mostly consist of projectiles and mines, with only a boost and a stopwatch that slows down other racers. The rubber-band AI, which gives losing players a boost to keep up, adds frustration to the game. It feels like races are won more due to luck than skill. The AI keeps racers in close proximity, creating constant pressure on the player. The rubber band effect also allows AI racers to surpass the player in speed, making it inevitable that the player will eventually be passed. This punishment for performing well is particularly infuriating.
Additionally, the save system of the game failed me, resulting in lost progress. It erased my progress and reverted me to earlier tracks after successful saving. Although some characters I had unlocked remained available, the setback killed any motivation to finish the game entirely.
Overall, the best part about Woody Woodpecker Racing is the limited presence of Woody himself. You don’t have to endure his irritating antics or watch him play the victim after sabotaging others. However, among the plethora of kart racing games available during that period, Woody Woodpecker Racing falls short compared to popular titles like Mario Kart 64, Diddy Adventure Racing, Crash Team Racing, and even Mickey’s Speedway USA. Considering there are better options without the annoyance of a red-crested woodpecker, Woody Woodpecker Racing is only worth playing if you’re a die-hard fan or desperate for a kart racing fix.
- Handley, Z. (n.d.). Woody Woodpecker Racing brings chaos and frustration. Retrieved from [URL]
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Basant Kasayap is an entertainment aficionado who delves into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. From Hollywood to Bollywood to regional cinema, she offers readers an insider’s perspective on the world of movies, music, and pop culture.
