The greatest racing game for PalmOS just got even better. This new release of MicroQuad (version 1.1) includes 4 new bonus tracks and 1 new bonus quad bike to unlock! Also new in this version is an internet high scores competition allowing users to upload high scores and compare them with hundreds of players around the world! The update is of course free for registered users, just download the new version!

MicroQuad racing is developed by Xavier Martin (www.viex.org), author of multi award-winning TableTennis 3D. Your mission is to race a quad bike around 20 different tracks and to attempt to move your way through the levels which are Baby Cup, Junior Cup, Pro Cup, Master Cup and Expert Cup. Each level include 4 very detailed and varied tracks and you also get the choice of 6 different quad bikes which have different specialities for Road, Off Road and Grip.

Review

On loading the splash screen gives you the option for Grand Prix, Quick Race, or Multi Player (unfortunately not available on the Treo 600) playing modes. The neat graphics are matched by a cool (if slightly annoying) theme tune, giving the game a certain feel that MarioKart enthusiasts will enjoy.

In Grand Prix mode you will face the challenge of five different cups, each consisting of four races. Only after all races in one cup have been won can you move on to the next level. On a variety of surfaces, from road to snow or dirt, the tracks get increasingly more difficult as you progress through the cups. After choosing a track you are given the option to select one of 6 quad-bike and driver combinations to use. The 5 remaining quads will then race against you. After selecting your quad, and with a roar from your engine, you’re ready to race!

Entering the main game screen it is immediately clear that this game is not going to disappoint! Admittedly, the graphics suffer some poor rendering on the Treo’s low-res screen but they are still mighty impressive. The graphics are equalled by the sound which, although slightly low quality even through headphones, adds a great deal to the game. Engine noise, skids and special effects certainly help bring the game to life, and show an attention to detail that this developer is famous for.

The game controls are simply to steer left and right, accelerate, brake (erm what’s that?) and fire your secret weapon (oh yes!). Through the options screen you can map the keys however you wish, making play as natural as possible. Even more convenient is the option to have your accelerator always pressed, meaning you have more digits free to control left and right, fire and brake.

The early races provide an easy introduction to the game, allowing you to get familiarised with the controls and learn the benefits of different drivers/quads. The track and opposition difficulty rises slowly through the first three cups, perhaps a little too slowly and completing the first 3-4 cups comes with relative ease. The last 2 cups (and the bonus cup) add significantly to track complexity, (most notably tracks with numerous routes and shortcuts) making the gameplay even more entertaining and addictive.

MicroQuad offers the quality of gameplay you would expect from a leading console game such as Nintendo’s MarioKart. The game features awesome graphics, gameplay and sound, and the developers have taken the time and care to provide all of those things with fine attention to detail. With the quick race mode you can choose any race and play the game for 5 minutes, providing lasting appeal even after completing all of the cups.

"At the beginning we didn’t wanted to make a 160×160 version, but when I read your nice comments, I’m glad we change our mind!" - Xavier Martin

So are we Xavier!

Tips

I found that the Treo 5way nav is not ideal for controlling racing games. In MicroQuad I found it easier to use two hard buttons for left and right, auto accelerate, and set the two remaining hard buttons for brake and fire.

If you are finding it difficult to win a race try choosing another quad bike. Certain quads naturally lend themselves to certain tracks.

Links

Download Microquad from mytreo.net

Purchase MicroQuad $14.95 at esellerate.net

Visit the Develepers Website www.viex.org

Discuss MicroQuad in the mytreo.net forum (with a guest appearance from the developer!)

Filed under: Treo and Palm news