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Newman/Haas Racing, released for the PlayStation in 1998, is one of the lesser-known gems of the racing game genre. Developed by Studio 33 and published by Psygnosis, this game sought to capture the essence of the CART (Championship Auto Racing Teams) series, which was a prominent open-wheel racing championship in North America during the 1990s. With its focus on realism and detailed simulation mechanics, Newman/Haas Racing offers a unique experience for fans of motorsport.
Story
In contrast to many other racing games, Newman/Haas Racing does not follow a traditional story arc. Instead, it embraces the authenticity of professional racing, allowing players to immerse themselves in the world of CART racing. The game takes its name from the famed Newman/Haas Racing team, co-founded by actor Paul Newman and racing entrepreneur Carl Haas. While there is no fictional narrative, the game captures the spirit and competition of the CART series, placing players in the driver’s seat to forge their racing legacy.
Players begin by choosing from a selection of official drivers and teams, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. The objective is straightforward: compete across a series of races, hone driving skills, and ultimately strive to become the CART champion. This focus on realism extends to the game’s representation of real-world teams, tracks, and drivers, allowing players to experience the thrill of professional racing without the embellishment of a fictional storyline.
Gameplay
Newman/Haas Racing is celebrated for its detailed and realistic approach to racing simulation. The gameplay focuses on providing an authentic experience that mirrors the complexities and nuances of real-world racing. Below are some key features of the gameplay:
Realistic Racing Mechanics
The game offers a realistic driving experience, putting emphasis on factors such as tire wear, fuel management, and damage modeling. Players must carefully manage these elements to succeed in races, making strategic decisions about when to pit for fuel or tire changes. The game’s handling physics are designed to reflect the challenges of controlling a powerful open-wheel car at high speeds, requiring precise inputs and careful maneuvering.
Track Variety
Newman/Haas Racing features a selection of real-world circuits from the CART series, including street courses, road courses, and oval tracks. Each track presents unique challenges, requiring players to adapt their driving style accordingly. The diversity of track types keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging, as players must master the intricacies of each circuit to achieve victory.
Driver and Team Selection
Players have the opportunity to select from a roster of licensed drivers and teams, each with their own attributes. This choice impacts the gameplay experience, as different teams may have varying levels of car performance and reliability. This aspect adds a layer of strategy, as players must decide whether to opt for a more balanced team or one that excels in specific areas.
Multiplayer and Single-Player Modes
The game offers both single-player and multiplayer modes, allowing players to compete against AI opponents or challenge friends. The single-player mode includes a championship mode where players can compete in a full season of racing, while multiplayer allows for head-to-head competition, adding a social element to the experience.
Graphics and Sound
At the time of its release, Newman/Haas Racing was praised for its attention to detail in graphics and sound design, which contributed to its immersive experience.
Graphics
The graphics in Newman/Haas Racing are notable for the era, providing detailed car models and track environments. The developers paid close attention to the aesthetic of the CART series, with accurately rendered cars, sponsor decals, and trackside details. While the graphics may not hold up to modern standards, they were considered impressive for a PlayStation game of its time, contributing to the overall realism and authenticity of the racing experience.
Sound
Sound design plays a crucial role in enhancing the immersion of Newman/Haas Racing. The game features realistic engine sounds that vary based on speed and car performance, adding to the sensory experience of high-speed racing. Additionally, the game includes ambient sounds such as crowd noise and pit stop chatter, further immersing players in the competitive atmosphere of a live race.
Legacy and Reception
Upon its release, Newman/Haas Racing received mixed to positive reviews from both players and critics. While the game was praised for its realistic simulation mechanics and detailed representation of the CART series, some critics noted that its focus on realism could be a double-edged sword, making the game less accessible to casual players.
Critical Reception
Critics lauded the game for its authenticity and attention to detail. The simulation aspects, including tire wear and fuel management, were highlighted as standout features that set it apart from more arcadey racing games of the time. However, some reviewers felt that the steep learning curve and lack of a traditional story mode might deter players who were looking for a more straightforward racing experience.
Legacy
Despite not achieving the widespread recognition of some other racing games from the era, Newman/Haas Racing has maintained a cult following among fans of racing simulations. Its dedication to realism and the authentic CART experience has earned it a place in the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts. The game is often remembered for its contribution to the racing genre, particularly in its efforts to bring the intricacies of professional racing to the gaming world.
Conclusion
Newman/Haas Racing remains a significant title in the history of racing games, particularly for its focus on delivering a realistic and immersive simulation of the CART series. While it may not have achieved the mainstream success of some contemporaries, its commitment to authenticity and detailed gameplay mechanics set it apart. For fans of motorsport and simulation games, Newman/Haas Racing offers a nostalgic look back at a time when racing games were beginning to explore the depths of realism and complexity. Its legacy endures as a reminder of the passion and dedication required to capture the thrill of professional racing in a digital format.
