GameHaven

After dragging my *** for so long, I guess it's finally time to just get this over with. I present you with the Ridge Racer 7 review.

Ridge Racer 7
Arcade Racing
Full Game
E

I've long been a racing game fan, but I only liked "street racing" games like Midnight Club and Need for Speed. Now, after playing Ridge Racer 7, I can proudly say I'm an arcade racing game fan, too.

RR7 places you in the shoes of *insert PSN username here*, the newest drift racer to visit Ridge State, "the home of drift racing". From there you'll need to complete Manufacturer's races to establish relationships with Manufacturers (enabling you to earn and buy vehicles and upgrades), compete in the Ridge State Gran Prix (essentially a tournament mode), and do UFRA Special Challenges (races with set rules). Along the way you'll earn credits and fame points, opening up new events and races.

Races are immense fun, thanks to the simple controls and outstanding drift. You'll literally "drive sideways" around corners, filling up Nitrous as you drift. The sense of speed is excellent, and you never get tired of using a tank of NoS. I also think it's noteworthy to say that the motion-sensing controls (which are optional) are actually good, and it is possible to win races using them.

Online play is also a ton of fun, with dozens of leaderboards, modes, and settings that can be changed for each race. There are always people online, and many different types of games will appeal to everyone. Whether or not you're looking for a competitive race, one that's just for fun, or a team race, you'll always be delighted.

Graphically, this game fares very well. You can easily tell it's next-gen, with amazingly detailed environments, and the vehicles and lighting are amazing. Reflections and shading make the game seem much nicer and polished. The excellent detail and motion blur just sweeten up the deal.

Soundwise, this game is amazing. Dozens of funky pop-techno songs accompany the usual humming engines and squealing tires. Also, if you're willing to pay an extra buck or so, you can download dozens of more tunes from the PSN. Personally, I haven't bought them, but I'm sure they're worth it. Overall, this game is music to my ears.
The replayability of RR7 is excellent- a great single player, engaging online, and an endless amount of downloadable content makes RR7 a never-ending racer. For racing fans, you must pick this one up. For others, it's recommended to at least rent it. You won't regret it.

CLOSING NOTE
-Excellent Single-Player
-Simple, effective controls
-Great online play
-Outstanding graphics
-Superb sound
-Tons of downloadable content (most of which is free!)

-Recommended-