Split-Second (PS3) E3 2009 impressions

This destructive racer is one of Sid Shuman's favorite games from E3 2009.

Split/Second unveiled at GDC 2009

Split-Second (PS3) E3 2009 impressions

Sid?s E3 Treasure Trove

GamePro senior editor Sid Shuman?s hands-on impressions from E3 2009's show floor.


Much has already been said about Split-Second, a rollicking, furious racing game that has its eye on being the Burnout Beater of 2009. This lightning-fast action racer has the tight controls and handling of a fine sports car, but enough explosions and catastrophic carnage to attract even players who typically ignore racing games (such as myself).

Split-Second is so epic that it comes across as almost a God of War on wheels. You won't go for longer than a few seconds before seeing a massive explosion, toppling skyscraper, or runaway plane crash-landing in the middle of the racetrack. The carnage is controlled via "Power Plays," which are button prompts that pop up momentarily during the race. Hit the proper button at the right time, and you might send a flaming bus toppling into an opponent or send a tower crumbling into the racetrack, though triggering such destruction can be a double-edged sword -- you've got to keep on your toes to dodge your enemy's traps as well as the effects of your own. In this sense, Split-Second is a truly white-knuckle racer: you're not just fighting to stay ahead, but literally racing for your life.

But the most pleasant surprise about the game is the feel and handling of its cars: they're precise, responsive, and can nimbly zip around the racktrack. The destruction isn't merely a flashy gimmick, as the core racing here could compete on its own merits. But the over-the-top production values and nail-biting Power Plays send Split-Second over the top, and made me feel like I was racing through the middle of an apocalypse. The destruction also drastically impacts the moment-to-moment racing, opening up new shortcuts and route changes (such as racing through the hallways of an airport). It's a fast, exhilarating experience and one of the best games I saw at E3 2009.

Split-Second (PS3) E3 2009 impressions
Split-Second (PS3) E3 2009 impressions

More E3 2009:

NEW: GamePro's E3 2009 Awards: The 27 Best Games

ALSO READ: The Best and Worst of the E3 2009 Keynotes

ALSO READ: E3 News Roundup!

ALSO READ: The best demos and trailers of E3 2009!

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ViciousSid

Wait til you play it. :-) It's CRAZY, gorgeous, and controls like a dream. This is a seriously sweet game.

Harerazer

Who cares about replacing Burnout (like such a thing could ever be done)? My game shelf is never too small for another quality racer!

But Burnout Paradise is The King right now and still the front runner for a three-peat this year.

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