JDM: Japanese Drift Master: Skidding Through the Streets of Fantasy Japan
A tale of drifting, manga, and the occasional AI-induced spinout
Launch Day Larry
Welcome to the world of JDM: Japanese Drift Master, where the roads are as winding as the plot and the drifting is as unpredictable as the AI. This indie racing game attempts to blend the thrill of drifting with a manga-style narrative, all set against the backdrop of a fantasy version of Japan. But does it drift smoothly into our hearts, or does it spin out of control? Let’s find out.
Gameplay: Drifting Between Fun and Frustration
JDM: Japanese Drift Master offers a variety of gameplay experiences, from arcade-style racing to more simcade-like drifting. The game provides multiple difficulty levels, but newcomers might find themselves skidding into frustration on anything above easy mode. The driving mechanics allow for some customization, with options to disable AI assists for a more authentic experience. However, the sim wheel support feels like trying to drift on a banana peel—overly sensitive and requiring constant adjustments.
The game shines with its engaging drifting mechanics and a variety of mission types, including delivery and drift-focused challenges. Yet, the AI often feels like it’s on a mission to ruin your day, spinning you out mid-combo or acting oblivious to your presence. The lack of a good chase camera for drifting is a missed opportunity, leaving players to rely on their instincts rather than a clear view of the action.
Graphics: A Visual Feast with a Side of Stutter
For an indie title, JDM: Japanese Drift Master impresses with its high-quality visuals, rivaling some larger titles. The game boasts an unlocked frame rate and high-quality settings, making it a treat for those with powerful hardware. However, performance can be as unpredictable as a drift in the rain, with some players experiencing smooth gameplay while others encounter stutters and pixelation.
The game’s map and environment are beautifully designed, with realistic road widths and accurate car models adding to the immersion. However, the GPS UI feels like it was designed by someone who hates maps, with a low-quality display that detracts from the overall experience. Lighting issues, particularly in tunnels, further mar the visual appeal, making it feel like you’re driving through a poorly lit art exhibit.
Story: Manga Meets Motorsports
The narrative of JDM: Japanese Drift Master unfolds through a manga-style presentation, which is as divisive as pineapple on pizza. While some players appreciate the anime-like experience, others find it a jarring mismatch with the racing genre. The story mode is short and sweet, offering a fun diversion but lacking depth and cohesion with the gameplay.
The manga integration, while unique, feels more like a cost-saving measure than a narrative choice, with some players skipping the segments entirely. The missions, though enjoyable, suffer from repetition and poor AI, affecting the story’s progression and challenge. Despite these issues, the storyline has its moments, particularly for fans of Initial D and classic JDM cars.
Final Verdict
JDM: Japanese Drift Master is a game with potential, offering engaging drifting mechanics and impressive visuals for an indie title. However, it struggles with performance issues, inconsistent physics, and a narrative that doesn’t quite fit the racing mold. With further refinement and player feedback, it could become a standout in the genre. For now, it’s a mixed bag of thrilling drifts and frustrating spins.
Score: 6.5/10