Star Wars: Episode I - Racer

GamePro (US) (5 out of 5) (100%)

Star Wars Episode I: Racer packs enough high-octane thrills that most gamers will be able to look beyond the nitpicks about control configuration and pop-up. For sheer N64 racing excitement, it's the game to beat.

Just Games Retro ( ) (100%)

For my money, Episode I: Racer is the best racer on the Nintendo 64; it’s blindingly fast, easy to pick up and play, and carrying the name of perhaps the best-known movie franchise in the world didn’t hurt either. It can be frustrating at times, as I said, but the joy of whipping along at supersonic speed, where the sounds of your engine fade out and you’re just left with the triumphant soundtrack as you whizz through tunnels and caves, that more than balances out the downsides. It definitely feels like a game that, if you or someone you know owned an N64, you’ve played before, and with good reason, and if you haven’t, I urge you to track this down, whether you’re a Star Wars fan or you just want a razor-sharp racing experience…just remember, if you ain’t first, you’re bantha poodoo.

Video Game Critic, The (A) (100%)

This masterpiece is a dream come true for Star Wars fans! Episode One Racer faithfully recreates (and expands upon) the exciting pod-racing scene from the Phantom Menace. The game offers 23 different vehicles available and 25 unique courses. The graphics (with the help of the memory expansion pack) are magnificent and the illusion of speed is exhilarating.

Total! (Germany) (1.25 out of 6) (95%)

LucasArts ist ein echter Hit gelungen. Einige Strecken hätten zwar noch mehr Feinschliff vertragen können, und der Schwierigkeitsgrad steigt für Anfänger zu stark an, doch im Ganzen betrachtet, fallen diese Aspekte nicht so sehr ins Gewicht. Viele gute Strecken und Fahrer, eine phantastische Präsentation und nicht zuletzt die gelungene Spielbarkeit können überzeugen. Freunde von futuristischen Rennspielen und Star Wars-Fans sollten unbedingt zugreifen!

Game Play 64 (95 out of 100) (95%)

Star Wars Episode 1 Racer s'annonce comme la nouvelle référence en matière de vitesse sur Nintendo 64, mais on regrette que le Rampak soit indispensable et qu'aucune arme ni aucun item ne point le bout de leur nez !

Video Game Critic, The (A-) (91%)

The illusion of speed is effective, and the game does a fine job of capturing the spirit of the film. But is it worth the upgrade if you already own the N64 version? No. In fact, unless you compared both versions side-to-side, you'd never be able to tell the difference.

64 Power / big.N / N Games (91 out of 100) (91%)

Insgesamt ist Star Wars Episode 1 Racer ein Spiel in der Tradition von Wave Rave und 1080 Snowboarding. Der Solomodus motiviert dank der feinfühligen Steuerung, des tollen Streckendesigns und der optischen sowie akustischen Leckereien immer wieder zur Jagd auf einen neuen Rundenrekord. Da es keinerlei Extrawaffen gibt kommt es wirklich nur auf Dein Können als Fahrer an; ein schnelles, faires Rennspiel - verdammt gute Arbeit und für Star Wars-Fans ein absolutes Muß!

Mega Fun (91 out of 100) (91%)

Jeder Star-Wars-Fan wird durch das neue Racer-Modul gehörig unter Druck gesetzt, ein N64zu kaufen. Nach Rouge Squadron (Spiel des Monats 2/99) toppt Lucasfilm den Spielspaß noch einmal gewaltig. Mit den vielfältigen Einstellmöglichkeiten, den total abgedrehten und detailverliebten Strecken sind über Wochen hinweg Rennspielfreuden garantiert. Dabei verstand es der Hersteller nicht nur spielerisch, sondern auch optisch und akustisch das N64 zur absoluten Höchstleistung zu treiben. Um es auf den Punkt zu bringen: Mehr wäre auf dem 256-MBit-Modul sicher nicht unterzubringen gewesen. Gäbe es die einzigen Kritikpunkte (ich weiß, für Star-Wars-Fans nicht von Belang), wie das Fehlen von Waffen und ein paar Spielmodi, insbesondere einen Vierspieler-Vergleich, nicht, wäre der Spitzenplatz drin gewesen. So muss die Referenz Extreme G2 nur ein wenig auf dem Thron der N64-Racer aufrücken und sich den Platz an der Sonne mit Star Wars Episode 1: Racer teilen.

Inside Mac Games (IMG) (9 out of 10) (90%)

Do you dream of speed? Does the thought of traveling at high speeds only a few feet from the ground send chills down your spine? Hold on to your goggles. Fire up those converters. Tune in to the Force, and get ready because Star Wars Racer is here.

Jeuxvideo.com (18 out of 20) (90%)

Star Wars Episode 1 : Racer, n'est pas simplement une course de vaisseaux de plus. Elle a en effet trois points positifs essentiels : une vitesse impressionnante (pour moi c'est du jamais vu sur N64), une réalisation graphique et sonore excellente, et l'ambiance Star Wars pour couronner le tout. Bref, un investissement sans risque pour un jeu qui décoiffe, malgré un prix de vente un peu élevé (mais on a malheureusement l'habitude sur N64).

MacGamer's Ledge, The (Mac Ledge) (4.5 out of 5) (90%)

There is nothing quite like the beginning of a new game from LucasArts: John Williams' famous Star Wars theme, the plot's text scrolling into space, and the eventual panning down to the planet's surface. For Mac gamers, there is an extra bit of enjoyment with a new LucasArts title on their machines these days. Star Wars: Racer's release for Mac marks the return of LucasArts to the Mac.

NUKE Computer Gaming (9 out of 10) (90%)

All in all, a fiendishly addictive racer, and by far the more impressive of the two Star Wars: Episode I games releases.

Game industry News (GiN) (4.5 out of 5) (90%)

All in all, this game is one of the most entertaining racers I've seen. Its so good, we didn't even really mind the fact that you can only play it if you have a video card that supports 3D acceleration. Gameplay, graphics, audio, and action are all very, very good. Best of all, for those who have seen the movie, Jar Jar Binks makes no appearance in this game. Thank the Force!

Jeuxvideo.com (18 out of 20) (90%)

Avec Star Wars Episode 1 Racer, Lucasarts signe un des meilleurs Wipeout-like qu'on ait pu voir sur PC. Aucun gros défaut majeur ne vient noircir le tableau,... L'ambiance Star Wars est parfaitement restituée, les graphismes sont superbes, la jouabilité exemplaire. A conseiller à tous les fanas de vitesse et de Star Wars.

Mac Game Files (4.5 out of 5) (90%)

Star Wars: Racer brings all the intensity and high-speed thrills of the Podracing sequence from the motion picture Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace. The game dares players to take control of sleek and blindingly fast Podracers in a series of electrifying and dangerous races throughout the Star Wars galaxy. Inspired by Anakin Skywalker’s epic race against the nefarious Sebulba in the motion picture’s Boonta Eve Classic, the game challenges players to compete in the perilous outlaw sport of Podracing, where the object is to win at all costs.

Super Play (Sweden) (86 out of 100) (86%)

Visst är identifiering och närvarokänsla viktigt, men det finns gränser. Och skulle Star Wars: Episode I Racer inte bygga på George Lucas universum är frågan om någon egentligen skulle bry sig om det.

Gamebutler, The (8.5 out of 10) (85%)

While Star Wars: Episode I Racer does show its age in certain parts – particularly with the fog and lack of online options – it’s still just as enjoyable as it’s ever been. The two player option is excellent; and the track design and bumped-up frame rate are awesome. If it’s nostalgia you’re after – or you just live to hear Watto humming the Cantina theme again – this game is for you.

WomenGamers.com (8.4 out of 10) (84%)

Next to the lightsaber duels of Darth Maul and Obi-Wan Kenobi, the Podracing sequence of Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace was the most exciting and hair-raising action in the movie. Racer takes that area of the movie and places it into a simulation format for the rest of us to enjoy! Although there are five pods to initially choose from, everyone I know, myself included, HAD to try Anakin Skywalker's pod first! You're first test of skill will be the Boonta Training Course, which is to remind you of the Boonta Eve race in the movie. It is here that you will get an easy taste of what to expect.

Gamezilla (84 out of 100) (84%)

What it boils down to is this... if you are a Star Wars fan (who isn't?) and you felt that youthful urging during the podrace scene in Phantom Menace, go get this. Be prepared, though, to be confused in almost every aspect of the game except for the actual racing. Since racing is where Racer shines, enjoy yourself and scream like a Wookiee as Sebulba knocks you onto the service-ramp... yet again. But remember... in space, no one can hear you scream like a Wookiee.

GameSpot (8.4 out of 10) (84%)

Even with a few complaints lodged against it, Racer is an incredibly fast, super-fun game to play once you get a few levels into it. It's better than F-Zero X, its closest competition on the N64, and it even approaches the PlayStation uber-futuristic racer, Wipeout XL. To compare it with the movie, it's even better than the scene that inspired it, and that's a big compliment indeed.

Video Games (83 out of 100) (83%)

Rein optisch macht der neue Star-Wars-Racer eine sehr gute Figur - allerdings nur mit Expansion Pak (ohne dürft ihr ca. sieben bis acht Prozent von der Grafikwertung abziehen). (...) 25 Kurse sollten auch längerfristig Spaß machen, wären da nicht die nicht von der Hand zu weisenden Nebeleffekte, die bei mehreren Pod-Racern On-Screen absackende Frame-Rate und der musikalischen Faux Pas, den sich Lucas Arts hier geleistet hat: Warum zum Teufel gibt‘s erst in Runde 3 Musik und das in Mono-Qualität? Dem Renn-Profi wird‘s zudem zu leicht sein, denn obwohl Ihr mit der Macht seid (hehe), sollte es nicht sein, daß man ca. zehn Strecken von der ersten Rennsekunde an ohne das Lernen irgendwelcher Fähigkeiten auf Siegeskurs fährt. Fanatische Star-Wars-Fans wird allerdings wenig kümmern, daß wir das verwandte WipEout 64 trotz weniger Kursen für anspruchsvoller und langfristig motivierender halten.

Game Revolution (B+) (83%)

All in all, Star Wars: Episode One Racer is a pretty good game. With fast action and a good two-player split-screen, it's sure to entertain most Star Wars fans. The constant crashing will frustrate some gamers, but so did Jar Jar. Let's just thank Nintendo for not putting him in the game.

Game Revolution (B+) (83%)

All in all, Star Wars: Episode One Racer is a pretty good game. With fast action and neat FMV, it's sure to entertain most Star Wars fans. The lack of any Internet playability is very disappointing and hurts the replay value of the game. On the plus side, however, they didn't have Jar Jar in the game, and for that, I thank them.

Gamer's Pulse (82 out of 100) (82%)

Star Wars Episode 1: Racer is an enjoyable, but flawed game, more of an Anakin Skywalker in the grand theme of things. A more accessible multi-player aspect would have greatly enhanced my scoring of it. As it stands, the single player game is a little on the light side, and without access to a LAN or a good connection to Heat.Net, the multi-player is non-existent. With that said, Lucasarts has by no means created a sub-par product here. If you are a Star Wars fan, you will enjoy this game. Any time you can strap into one of the fantastic vehicles created by Lucas and co. over the years is an experience you won’t want to pass up. So, if you are one of the aforementioned Star Wars fans, or a fan of speed and great graphics, you won’t go too far wrong getting this game. If you aren’t, you might want to steer clear.

Hacker (82 out of 100) (82%)

Star Wars Racer je iznadprosječna igra, pogotovo gledano sa stajališta konzola. No, ipak Episode I: igra nas je razmazila glede tehnološke dotjeranosti, stoga ova igra i nije zaslužila 90%, koliko smo joj mislili dodijeliti...

Video Games (81 out of 100) (81%)

Es macht einfach Spaß, sich gegen die geschickt agierenden Konkurrenten durchzusetzen und dabei nie die oft hundsgemein designten Strecken aus dem Auge zu verlieren. Episode 1 Racer ist eine echte Herausforderung für die Sinne. So richtig Freude kommt aber erst in den späteren Leveln auf. Denn erst dann habt ihr hoffentlich genug Zusatz-Equipment, um die ganze Qualität des Games zu genießen. Einzig im 2-Player-Modus müssen in technischer Hinsicht einige Einschränkungen in Kauf genommen werden. Dennoch zählt Episode 1 Racer definitiv zu den besten bislang erhältlichen Racern für das DC.

IGN (8 out of 10) (80%)

The game's graphics are superb with a good card and when you're hurtling past them at high speeds, any blemishes quickly vanish. The framerate maintains a good clip throughout--in short, the PC version of the game is heads and shoulders above the Nintendo 64 version, so if you've been put off by the N64 version's less than stellar performance, be assured that on a high-end PC, the game looks fine and runs fast.

Spel för Alla (8 out of 10) (80%)

Annars är Racer ett väldigt bra actionfyllt racingspel. Det kunde ha blivit en klassiker om inte programmerarna hade slarvat för att tajma filmpremiären.

Computer Gaming World (CGW) ( ) (80%)

That said, RACER is still a real blast. For Star Wars and arcade racing fans alike, the dizzying speed, marvelous tracks, and stunning visuals should provide hours upon hours of fun. I know its staying on my hard drive.

Computer and Video Games (CVG) ( ) (80%)

Other than rendered sequences at the start of each race and enhanced graphics, the PC version of Episode I Racer is practically the same as the Nintendo 64 version. There's a good choice of racing games on PC already but anyone into Star Wars would be stupid to miss out on the chance to compete in a Podrace. For the sheer thrill of being part of the biggest movie of the year, Star Wars: Episode I Racer is essential.

Game.EXE (4 out of 5) (80%)

Сама гонка - аркаднее некуда, с полосками энергии для каждого двигателя. И не моргайте, если не хотите потерять один из них и отправиться на одной вожже в смертельно быстрый штопорообразный полет за оставшимся горящим. Реакция, внимание и еще раз реакция, те самые освобожденные рефлексы, которым, по словам шибко умных Джедаев-наставников, надо безоговорочно и беззаветно верить, - вот все, что от вас требуется.

Imperium Gier ( ) (80%)

Chyba wszyscy na to czekacie - podsumowanie. Star Wars Episode I: Racers jest niesamowicie dobrze zrobiona wyścigówką. Nie wiadomo, kiedy wasze oczka zobaczą coś równie doskonałego. Bogactwo, którym epatują trasy, oszołamia. Każdy świat posiada swój własny niepowtarzalny klimat. No po prostu miód się z tej gry leje litrami.

Gamekult (8 out of 10) (80%)

Avec une rapidité digne de la séquence du film Episode 1 : La Menace Fantôme dont le jeu s'inspire, Star Wars Racer plaira à tous les amateurs de course d'arcade survitaminée. La vingtaine de circuits difficiles, variés et bien architecturés sera un vrai défi pour les pilotes, dans une ambiance extrêmement bien rendue et fidèle au film. Les seuls petits défauts notables sont le mode multijoueurs qui réduit la fluidité essentielle au jeu, et l'utilisation fortement conseillée du RAM Pack, l'extension mémoire de la N64, qui donne au jeu toute son ampleur. Fans de Anakin Skywalker ou non, à vos manettes !

Power Unlimited (8 out of 10) (80%)

Episode I: Racer is een prima racespel van het kaliber WipeOut/F-Zero X, maar mist een beetje die Star Wars feel die andere SW-games hebben. Het is natuurlijk verplichte kost voor de echte Star Wars fan. Toch hoop ik dat de Episode I games die nog zullen volgen en tikkie origineler zijn.

Gamer's Pulse (80 out of 100) (80%)

Overall, I would say that the problems are definitely minor and appear even more so when compared with the rest of the game. The only problem that is really annoying is the fact that you must free courses and racers up for multiplayer from single player. It would be a lot more fun to race through the game multiplayer, perhaps only freeing up the track or racer for the player that placed higher. Either way, I would definitely recommend this game for any Star Wars fans, or any racing game fans. Of course, if you are a fan of both, then this is the game for you.

Nintendo Life ( ) (80%)

Star Wars Episode I: Racer is a solid racing game, featuring tight game mechanics, great track design and impressive visuals. Despite being based on a film which most Star Wars fans would rather forget, the fast and frantic gameplay more than makes up for it, and LucasArts should be commended for having developed that fateful pod race into such a sizeable and varied experience. Unfortunately, the multiplayer is disappointing, especially in comparison to other N64 multiplayer hits, making this game more ideal for the single-player. Moreover, the rather harsh climb in difficulty may not be to everyone's taste. Nevertheless, if you're looking for an extensive single-player racing experience, then Star Wars Episode I: Racer is certainly worth a go.

Computer and Video Games (CVG) ( ) (80%)

With vehicles as enjoyable to control as the Podracers, and a variety of well-thought out courses, this game couldn't fail. The ace presentation and having to earn money for upgrades makes Episode I Racer something for everyone - even those few sad people whose lives aren't totally consumed by Star Wars!

AppleLinks.Com (4 out of 5) (80%)

Anakin Skywalker is a dork. This is why I don't get the national crisis that arose over Jar Jar Binks after Star Wars Episode One was released. Heck, in Nebraska, the National Guard had to be called out to quell the riots. I'll admit I didn't care much for the guy, but I don't think he was any more annoying than C-3PO. Fact of the matter is that if there was one thing that really screwed up The Phantom Menace, it was Anakin Skywalker.

Mac Gamer (80 out of 100) (80%)

There is nothing quite like the beginning of a new game from LucasArts: John Williams' famous Star Wars theme, the plot's text scrolling into space, and the eventual panning down to the planet's surface. For Mac gamers, there is an extra bit of enjoyment with a new LucasArts title on their machines these days. Star Wars: Racer's release for Mac marks the return of LucasArts to the Mac. Earlier in the year, they released the Episode 1: Insider's Guide for Mac as well. So, after almost a 3-year drought of LucasArts Mac releases, does Racer truly measure up to expectations?

Way Too Many Games (8 out of 10) (80%)

This might be one of the least impressive visual remasters I have ever seen, but considering how well Star Wars Episode I: Racer‘s gameplay has aged over the decades, I still have to recommend the Switch version of this game to racing fans and Star Wars fans alike. This is still one of the best and most creative Star Wars games ever released, and even though it now looks as clunky as the CGI from Attack of the Clones, it’s still well worth playing once again. One can only wonder which Star Wars game Aspyr is going to release next. If it isn’t Knights of the Old Republic, we riot.

Power Play (79 out of 100) (79%)

Auf der einen Seite ist der Star Wars Racer neben Rollcage das schnellste Rennspiel, das mir jemals über den Monitor flimmerte. Auf manchen Kursen verfällt man vollends dem Geschwindigkeitsrausch, befindet sich so tief im Geschehen, daß man erst nach Passieren der Ziellinie wieder befreit aufatmen kann. Auf der anderen Seiten gibt es viele kleine Mängel, die sich auf Dauermotivation und Wiederspielbarkeit auswirken. Die Hälfte der Kurse ist viel zu simpel zu bewältigen, spätestens beim zweiten Anlauf ist es keine Kunst, eine der vordersten Positionen zu belegen. Zudem sind spannende Duelle mit Konkurrenten absolute Mangelware, meist rast man mutterseelenallein auf weiter Flur dahin. Letzlich ist die ganze Präsentation zu durchschnittlich, aus dem brillanten Thema hätte man durch feinere Grafiken und Sounds einiges mehr herausholen können. Trotzdem: Nur selten konnte mich ein Action-Raser derart in seinen Bann ziehen (zumindest für ein gutes Weilchen)!

Game Over Online (79 out of 100) (79%)

On the whole, this isn't a bad game. The complete lack of a challenge really takes away from it, because while it does eventually get difficult and fun, its still not good enough to justify the 'hard' work of playing through the first group of levels. Lucasarts definitely captured the speed of pod racing, especially in first person mode, but unless you are willing to stick it out until late the game, there isn't much to hold your interest.

Use a Potion! (7.7 out of 10) (77%)

Of course, it isn’t perfect and some sketchy textures, inconsistent (and often too easy) difficulty, and distorted audio problems do hinder the experience a fair bit. They’re not problematic enough to make Star Wars Episode I: Racer feel like a bad game, but they’re still obvious issues that can be hard to ignore in places. Still, it’s clear that Star Wars Episode I: Racer has managed to stand the test of time and it’s easy to recommend this remastered release for both returning gamers and those who never got the chance to race in one of the iconic pod racers back in 1999.

GameStar (Germany) (77 out of 100) (77%)

Das Spiel erfüllt die meisten Anforderungen, die ich an eine leicht kapierbare Fun-Raserei stelle. Doch das halbe Programm hat man schon nach einer Stunde gesehen, weil es lächerlich leicht losgeht. Erst im letzten Drittel wird es mit verschlungenen Strecken und forscheren Gegnern herausfordernder. Durch das hohe Tempo sind Begegnungen mit anderen Podracern relativ selten und hektisch. Richtig gezielt einen Gegner wegzuschubsten, fällt in der allgemeinen Hektik schwer. Aber alles in allem bin ich angenehm überrascht. Racer ist ein spritziges SF-Actionrennspiel, das sehr manierlich Filmatmospähre rüberbringt. Den Mangel an Tiefgang kann jeder verschmerzen, der Star Wars mag und auf eher leichte Rennkost steht.

GameSpot UK (7.7 out of 10) (77%)

Episode I Racer is basically no different to the PC version released some time ago and as such is a little disappointing. It would have been nice if some of the criticisms levelled at the game all that time ago had been addressed. Never the less, Episode I Racer is a very playable futuristic racer, which would perhaps have benefited more from the introduction of weapons than it has from the incredibly irritating alien voice samples of your opponents. Much like the film, Episode I Racer is not terrible when taken at face value but definitely fails to live up to expectations.

Nintendo Link (76 out of 100) (76%)

I will say that the price of the game should be a bit cheaper. I know it is a STAR WARS licensed game, but this is something that was birthed in 1999. Here we are in 2021 now, and I am expected to cough up a decent amount of money for basically a nostalgia trip. It is not like this port added anything of significance, like online racing, online leaderboards for TIME ATTACK, or 4 player splitscreen. Any or all of those options would have raised the value of this remake tremendously, but instead they went the safe route, did not change much of anything, and are trying to charge a decent price for what is a 21-year-old game.

PC Gamer (76 out of 100) (76%)

Given the strict deadlines surrounding the release of Episode 1 merchandise, I understand why Lucasarts may have been forced to ship Racer before its design could be fully realized or all the bugs exterminated - but it's still a damn shame. Gamers with access to LAN should take a look, but everyone else is advised to wait for a comprehensive patch or an expanded and more challenging sequel.

Gamesmania.de (75 out of 100) (75%)

Wer endlich auch das letzte Register seiner 3D-Karte kennenlernen will und auf die Grafikeffektekollektion '99 gespannt ist, sollte sich statt dessen Expendable ansehen. Hier ist nämlich nicht viel zu holen. Wer aber nicht auf Transparenzeffekte zählt, sondern die Grafik als Gesamtkunstwerk betrachtet, strahlt schon eher, denn sie bereitet dem Film nun wahrlich keine Schande. Wer das Spiel pausiert, sieht vielleicht Schwächen - doch Racer ist zum Spielen da, und da stimmt die Optik. Da könnte man fast vergessen, daß man ja ein kritischer Journalist ist und unter der Star-Wars-Verzierung nur ein relativ einfaches Rennspiel steckt. Die eine oder andere zündende Idee, ein paar Strecken mehr, ein etwas ausgeglichenerer Schwierigkeitsgrad und vielleicht eine Online-Option - damit wäre Racer das Star Wars unter den futuristischen Rennspielen geworden, Kult nämlich. So ist es ein Pflichtkauf für Fans, nicht aber für andere.

Digital Press - Classic Video Games (7.5 out of 10) (75%)

While the lack of any major enhancements (like internet play) is an utter disappointment, especially considering the power of the console, it still retains the feel of Episode 1. If you have yet to experience the game, this is the version to go with. The graphics, while not breathtaking, are sufficient and the sound just screams Star Wars.

GameSpot (7.5 out of 10) (75%)

Racer is an incredibly fast, superfun game to play once you get a few levels into it. While it may be true that it doesn't come close to tapping the graphic and audio capabilities of the system and that it's release comes far later than it should have, the gameplay is still very solid, and it fills the futuristic racing niche for the Dreamcast nicely.

Power Unlimited (7.5 out of 10) (75%)

Episode 1 racer is op de PC wel een stuk mooier dan op de Nintendo. Beschik je over een krachtige bak met 3D acceleratie dan kun je je verheugen op een supersnelle framerate en strakke graphics. Het geluid is ook zuiver, al hoor je niet veel meer dan het lawaai van die enorme straalmotoren die een paar meter voor je neus hangen te ronken.

Player One (75 out of 100) (75%)

Star Wars Racer n'est certes pas une révolution, mais il s'impose si vous aimez le genre Wipeout.

NowGamer (7.4 out of 10) (74%)

The Dreamcast version of Star Wars Episode 1: Racer is blatantly just a cheap, lazy and frankly not particularly brilliant port of the PC version.

Computer Bild Spiele (2.34 out of 6) (73%)

Atemberaubend schnell flitzen die Gleiter in Star Wars Racer über die bunten Planetenoberflächen. Wollen Sie da mithalten, dann müssen Sie konzentriert und verbissen fahren. Der Umgang mit den schnellen Gefährten und ihrer Steuerung erfordert zwar zunächst etwas Übung, geht dann aber locker von der Hand. Und sind Sie erst einmal Profi, dann können Sie auch bei Höllentempo noch die Umgebungsgrafik der Planeten genießen. Die ist nämlich schön abwechslungsreich gestaltet. Enge Tunnelröhren sind genauso dabei wie Eis-Seen, Lavaströme und Baustellen mit riesigen Fahrzeugen. Das wird nicht nur Liebhabern des futuristischen Märchens „gut“ gefallen.

PC Action (Germany) (73 out of 100) (73%)

Auch wenn ich mich nicht zu den Hardcore-Star-Wars-Anhängern zählen kann (Schande über mich!), hat mich Episode 1: Racer in seinen Bann gezogen. Selten ist es einem Computerspiel gelungen, die wahnsinnige Geschwindigkeit von fast 1.000 Stundenkilometern so realistisch rüberzubringen. Die Soundkulisse mitsamt den auf die Strecken abgestimmten Tracks ist ebenfalls über jeden Zweifel erhaben. Leider, leider nur ist der ganze Spaß relativ schnell wieder vorbei. Zwar werden die Computergegner im letzten Spielabschnitt endlich zu ernsthaften Konkurrenten (die ersten Rennen lassen sich ohne Probleme gewinnen), doch trotzdem hatte ich das ganze Spiel an einem halben Tag durchgespielt und alle Strecken freigeschaltet. Das ist insgesamt zu wenig, LucasArts!

PC Player (Germany) (73 out of 100) (73%)

Die Podracer reagieren auf Eingabebefehle gut und vorhersehbar, werden manchmal aber schneller, als das Imperium erlaubt. Das Umfeld donnert dann in so unglaublichem Tempo an Ihnen vorbei, als würde ein Hypersprung unmittelbar bevorstehen. Der Sound ist gut; ab- und anschwellende Geräusche der Turbinen erleichtern das Einswerden mit dem Fahrzeug. Ein spielerischer Höhepunkt ist der majestätische Klang des gut besetzten Orchesters, das in allen Star-Wars-Spielen auftritt; manche werden die bewährten Melodien allerdings schon rückwärts pfeifen können.

IGN (7.2 out of 10) (72%)

Episode I Racer is a decent racer that gets an added boost from having the power of the Star Wars universe behind it. We thought the movie would shed some light on some of the characters in the game so we could get to know them better. Alas, the only racer besides Anakin and Sebulba that we really got to know in the movie was the pie-face man who stalled at the starting line and lost his four engines in the crowd. The lack of an initial challenge makes it tough to stay with the game until it does get interesting. Maybe, like Anakin, we need a nemesis like Sebulba to get the most out of ourselves and the game.

PC Joker (71 out of 100) (71%)

So ganz war die Macht diesmal nicht mit Lucas Arts: Das Handling der Pods könnte besser, das Streckendesign lebendiger und die Spannung größer sein - als ich die erste Liga ohne nennenswerte Positionskämpfe gewonnen hatte, war ich ob der sieben öden Strecken schon ziemlich enttäuscht. Die gelungene Gestaltung speziell der am Asteroiden Govo IV abgehaltenen Läufe hat mich dann zwar etwas versöhnt, trotzdem ist dieser Racer insgesamt mehr ein netter Tempobolzer zum Film denn ein ausgereiftes Rennspiel.

Gameplay (Benelux) (70 out of 100) (70%)

Episode I Racer bevat iets wat sommige racers nogal eens durven te missen, namelijk een gevoel van snelheid... Alleen het feit al dat het gebaseerd is op de nieuwe Star Wars film, zal voor de fans waarschijnlijk al reden genoeg zijn om het spel aan te kopen. Voor mij hoeft het echter niet...

Starburst Magazine ( ) (70%)

Star Wars Episode 1: Racer on Switch is the most the definitive version of the game, but it's sadly let down by its lack of multiplayer options. Still, the force is strong with this one.

MacNN ( ) (70%)

If you're a fan of pure racing games, Episode I Racer will please you. The game's fabulous sense of speed is perhaps its most attractive feature, assuming you're not a die hard Star Wars fan. Regardless of difficulty, the thirty different levels are well designed and offer an acceptable amount of variety. However, if you're looking for a racing game with plenty of challenge and action, stay away from Episode I Racer.

Jeuxvideo.com (14 out of 20) (70%)

Au final, Star Wars Racer déçoit. La fraîcheur et la rapidité qui avaient émerveillé les précédentes versions semblent bien plus pâles maintenant. Ce qui a pour effet principal de stigmatiser les quelques défauts du jeu. On a tout de même un jeu rapide et intéressant mais pas le hit auquel on aurait pu s'attendre.

Nintendojo (7 out of 10) (70%)

If you enjoyed the podrace sequence of The Phantom Menace, then you can rent or buy Episode I Racer safe in the knowledge that it delivers the same experience of ludicrous speed in the comfort of your living room. This game is as fast as they come, and looks great doing it. While it suffers slightly from a lack of depth in gameplay, it's a fun arcade racer that uses the Star Wars license to (nearly) full advantage. There are other futuristic racers available for the N64, but none of them look or feel quite like this. All in all, Episode I Racer is a great way to spend an entire weekend trying not to blink for fear that you'll miss the next turn.

Eurogamer.net (UK) (7 out of 10) (70%)

Star Wars: Episode 1 Racer is a really good blast for a while, and could last you for ages as long as you play it in moderation, giving it a chance to let you race on the really impressive later tracks. Long stints with it could mean consignment to the cupboard before it’s due, and it doesn’t really deserve that. Give it a chance, and it will deliver… just not all that it promises.

Gaming Age (B-) (67%)

After it is all said and done, Star Wars: Episode 1: Racer is still a very good game It isn't realistic because it doesn't need to be. It doesn't have the best graphics because it doesn't need them. This is Star Wars, people. And I must applaud LucasArts for actually putting together a nice little game, as they could have easily just slapped together some graphics and code and it would've sold millions because of the Episode 1 hype alone.

4Players.de (65 out of 100) (65%)

Star Wars Episode 1: Racer ist mir immer positiver in Erinnerung geblieben als der mäßige Kinofilm. Nachdem ich den Auftakt der Prequel-Trilogie kürzlich wieder gesehen und mich jetzt erneut in den Podracer gequetscht habe, bestätigt sich der Eindruck. Zwar sieht, hört und merkt man dem futuristischen Rennspiel sein Alter trotz der leichten Remaster-Überarbeitung an, aber ich habe immer noch Freude daran, mit einem wahnwitzigen Tempo über die abwechslungsreichen Pisten mit Anakin & Co zu preschen und meinen schwebenden Untersatz mit Upgrades aufzumotzen. Besonders viel Mühe hat sich Aspyr bei der Modernisierung zwar nicht gegeben und hat weder die Zeichentiefe verbessert noch sinnvolle Funktionen wie einen Onlinemodus hinzugefügt. Aber zumindest muss man dem Remaster zugute halten, dass man auf Switch sowohl mobil als auch am TV eine flüssige Darstellung genießen darf und der durchaus positive Geist des Originals auch bei der Neuauflage erhalten bleibt.

Adrenaline Vault, The (AVault) ( ) (60%)

Like an ambitious star amidst a crowded galaxy, Racer burns hot and brightly for a moment, then quickly fades away. Most people will initially be floored by the awesome sensation of speed and sound that Racer provides. Unfortunately, it won’t take long for players to advance through most of the game and reach the extremely difficult and misguided final tracks. Some people may enjoy the racing experience so much they won’t mind repeating the earlier tracks, despite the lack of competition. But I believe many players will become angry about the lack of overall balance, and as we all know, “anger leads to hate and hate leads to suffering.” To its credit, though, Racer provides a clean, exciting and ingenious style of racing. The experience, while short-lived, is fun while it lasts.

Nintendo Life ( ) (60%)

The central loop of 'race, win, upgrade, race' is certainly compelling while it lasts, and if you have fond memories of Star Wars Episode I: Racer from your childhood this is as good a way to relive them as possible – just don't expect any huge overhauls from the original game. Star Wars Episode I: Racer sets itself apart from the likes of Wipeout with its earnest take on the popular licence, and it's still fun to relive one of the best scenes in the prequel trilogy, but it's a long way from being one of the best racers on Switch.

Planet Dreamcast (6 out of 10) (60%)

Hey, it's Star Wars. If LucasArts put out a "Shave the Wookie's Back" game, I'd at least give it a chance. Episode 1: Racer, though, is another poor port that just happens to have a great license. I hate to say it, but I'd actually recommend the N64 version over the Dreamcast - if you're going to accept crappy graphics, you don't need to wait for them to load. I plead with LucasArts and Sega to release Star Wars Trilogy Arcade for the Dreamcast. I realize it's a short game, but it's running on a Naomi board already. With a little Crazy Taxi-style home version (just add in some more gameplay modes and you're set), it would be a huge hit. Help me, LucasArts. You're my only hope.

IGN (6 out of 10) (60%)

Overall, Episode 1 Racer isn't the worst Star Wars game (Rebellion, Force Commander, The Phantom Menace, and Jedi Power Battles are worse), but the graphics are nowhere near the level that is expected on the Dreamcast, and there isn't really anything here that we haven't already played on the N64 and PC. Developers need to stop shoveling graphically inferior titles onto GD-Roms and just tossing them into the market. Rayman 2 shows that a game can be multi-platform and still look absolutely amazing on each system it hits. Why is it that we have to settle for this?

Starbit (6 out of 10) (60%)

Star Wars Episode I: Racer regressa com uma atualização tímida, longe de tirar partido das capacidades das plataformas contemporâneas. No entanto, transporta todo o conteúdo original e uma jogabilidade exímia, o que juntamente com um preço relativamente baixo é uma proposta recomendada a apreciadores do original e curiosos mas pouco apelativo para quem gosta de jogos de corridas.

FiringSquad (50 out of 100) (50%)

The lack of interactivity, multiplayer playability, a decent graphics engine, and overall fun are enough knocks against Racer for us not to recommend it. The thrill of the game comes from its franchise, and if this weren't a Star Wars title, few people would give it a second look. Unfortunately, we all know the track record for games based on movie titles, and Racer fails to deliver a breakthrough. Mind you, not everything was bad about Racer. As a racing game it's fairly interesting, and some of the tracks are imaginative and well designed. Of course, the soundtrack is top-notch, as are the rants and catcalls of fellow racers as you hit the turbo boost and shoot past them. However, we're sorry to say that overall, the game did little to inspire a sense of action or fun, and thus falls squarely into the chasm of mediocrity.

Jeux Vidéo Magazine (9 out of 20) (45%)

Loin de déshonorer la saga, mais très loin d'honorer la Dreamcast, Star Wars Racer plaira plus aux fans de Star Wars qu'aux pilotes chevronnés, qui risquent de vite se lasser. Une réalisation soignée aurait donné à ce jeu de course tous les atouts pour plaire. Or, elle est plutôt bâclée... Décevant !