World Driver Championship
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| World Driver Championship | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Developer(s) | Boss Game Studios |
| Publisher(s) | Midway |
| Release date(s) | May 31, 1999 |
| Genre(s) | Racing game |
| Mode(s) | Single player, multiplayer |
| Rating(s) | ESRB: Everyone (E) |
| Platform(s) | Nintendo 64 |
| Media | Cartridge |
World Driver Championship is a automobile racing video game. It was developed by Boss Game Studios and published for the Nintendo 64 by Midway Games.
One of the last racing simulations to be released for Nintendo 64, this graphically intensive title used custom microcode optimization and high polygon count modelling. The development team was able to optimize the usage of the various processors within the N64 to allow far draw distance (reducing the need for fog or pop-up), high detail texturing and models, MP3 music, Doppler effect audio, and advanced lighting and fog effects for realistic weather conditions. Impressively the game has a high resolution 640x480 mode that does not require the add-on N64 RAM Expansion Pack. And unlike many of its peers, the game runs high resolution at a sufficiently playable pace, undoubtedly due to the use of a reduced screen area letterbox mode that lessens the number of pixels needing to be displayed.
[edit] Reception
The game received mixed reviews due to intense competition at the time. While WDC was an improvement in nearly every way compared to Boss's similar earlier effort, Top Gear Rally, it was up against the impressive new Gran Turismo series and other new racers. Complaints included a somewhat unconvincing driving physics model, non-licensed cars, and poor sound effects and music quality. The dislike for the physics model often stems from the beginning cars being difficult to drive and offering a "sloppy" feeling of control. As the game progresses and the player receives faster and better performing cars, the game becomes easier and more enjoyable.
The soundtrack composed of original rock & heavy metal tunes was composed by musician Zack Ohren.
