Burnout Legends for the Nintendo DS attempts to capture the essence of the popular Burnout series and bring it to the handheld world. It presents a commendable effort in delivering the familiar high-speed racing with its trademark destruction and intense gameplay. While it may not reach the heights of its console counterparts, it still manages to offer a nostalgic experience for retro gaming enthusiasts.
One aspect that stands out in Burnout Legends is its inclusion of eight gameplay modes. From the classic crash mode to the exhilarating pursuit mode, there is a variety of challenges to keep players engaged. The road rage mode, in particular, brings back memories of classic arcade racing games, where causing chaos and mayhem is the ultimate goal.
The game also features multiplayer capabilities through WiFi, allowing players to compete with friends in white-knuckle races. This adds an extra layer of excitement and brings back the thrill of playing against others in the same room. Additionally, the GameShare option allows players to share a demo level with friends wirelessly, reminiscent of the days of sharing game cartridges with one another.
However, despite these nostalgic elements, Burnout Legends falls short in a few areas. The graphics, while suitable for a handheld console, lack the polish and finesse of its predecessors. The visuals, although understandable given the platform's limitations, feel somewhat dated and fail to fully capture the intensity and spectacle of the Burnout series.
Moreover, the gameplay refinements introduced for the PSP version of the game do not translate seamlessly to the Nintendo DS. Controls can feel cumbersome and imprecise at times, leading to frustration rather than enjoyment. This lack of fluidity takes away from the overall experience, making it difficult to fully immerse oneself in the adrenaline-fueled world of Burnout.
In conclusion, Burnout Legends for the Nintendo DS offers a taste of the renowned Burnout series on a handheld platform. While it may not reach the heights of its console counterparts, it still manages to evoke a sense of nostalgia and provide entertaining gameplay. The inclusion of various modes and multiplayer capabilities adds depth and replayability to the experience. However, the dated graphics and lack of refined controls hinder the game's potential. For dedicated retro gaming enthusiasts seeking a portable Burnout fix, Burnout Legends for the Nintendo DS may satisfy their cravings, albeit with some limitations.
