FUMES: Revving Up the Retro Revolution

A vehicular ballet of bullets and bravado

Launch Day Larry

In the world of vehicular combat games, “FUMES” emerges like a turbocharged relic from the past, blending nostalgia with modern mechanics. It’s a game that invites you to strap in, rev up, and embrace the chaos of a post-apocalyptic playground where your car is both your weapon and your best friend. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes “FUMES” a promising contender in the arcade racing genre.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Speed and Shells

“FUMES” delivers a high-octane experience that feels like a love letter to the arcade racers of yesteryear. The driving mechanics are as forgiving as a grandma with a cookie jar, allowing players to drift and shoot with reckless abandon. The gunplay is equally satisfying, with a variety of weapons that cater to different playstyles. Whether you’re a fan of precision shooting or prefer to spray and pray, “FUMES” has you covered.

Boss battles are a particular highlight, offering unique challenges that test your mastery of the game’s mechanics. However, the game isn’t without its bumps in the road. Controller support is a bit like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole, with detection issues that can frustrate even the most patient players. Plus, while the core gameplay is solid, the lack of content can make the experience feel repetitive over time. The game is still in early access, so there’s hope for more variety and depth in future updates.

Graphics: A Visual Feast for the Eyes

If “FUMES” were a painting, it would be a vibrant mural of retro charm and modern flair. The graphics are a standout feature, with a cohesive art style that captures the essence of the 1990s and early 2000s. The environments, cars, and weapons are meticulously detailed, creating an immersive world that feels alive and full of personality. The game’s lighting and effects add to the grungy, arcade-style presentation, making every explosion and drift a visual delight.

Performance-wise, “FUMES” runs like a dream on high settings, even on older hardware. The game maintains a smooth 60FPS on devices like the Steam Deck, though menu navigation can be a bit of a chore due to touch screen reliance. The option to turn off VHS/CRT screen effects is a nice touch for those who prefer a cleaner visual style.

Story: A Minimalist Tale of Vengeance

In “FUMES,” the story takes a backseat to the action, much like a forgotten passenger in a high-speed chase. The narrative follows Shoot Driveman on a quest for revenge, a simple yet effective backdrop for the game’s chaotic gameplay. The post-apocalyptic setting, reminiscent of a Mad Max fever dream, adds to the game’s charm, with convoy battles and high-speed chases that keep the adrenaline pumping.

While the story is currently sparse, the developers have shown a commitment to expanding the narrative with future updates. Players are eager for more lore and character development, hoping for a deeper dive into the world of “FUMES.”

Final Verdict

“FUMES” is a promising entry in the vehicular combat genre, offering a fun and addictive experience with its engaging gameplay and stunning visuals. While it has its share of rough edges, particularly in terms of content and controller support, the game’s solid foundation and nostalgic charm make it worth keeping an eye on. With continued updates and improvements, “FUMES” could become a must-play for fans of arcade racing games.

Score: 7.5/10