Buzz! Junior: Ace Racers

Ace Racers is a Buzz! Junior game where you race others on the road, in the water and in the air.  It requires at least two players to play, although there is a practice mode which gives you the chance to polish up your individual skills.  Setting up the game is child’s play using your Buzz! controllers; even the instruction booklet is written so that a child will understand it, whether reading it for themselves or having it read to them.

Gameplay itself is fast and furious.  You have the choice of a short, medium or long game, with the additional option of a marathon.  In boat and car races all you have to do is hold down the big red Buzz! button; pressing the coloured buttons will give you a boost, but don’t be fooled, the boost doesn’t last forever so watch out for that.

The air races are a lot harder; in one you have to collect balloons.  Again the Buzz! button controls play, the tricky bit is knowing when to hold it down or let it go, the end result depends on whether you get it right.  The coloured buttons will bank your balloons but beware, if you crash, all the balloons you are carrying will be popped.  Sounds simple doesn’t it?  Well, it wouldn’t be fun if it was as easy as pressing a couple of buttons.  The gameplayer has to be aware of when the track is slippery or when there is a corner that shouldn’t be taken too fast … or even when there are restrictions when flying; make one mistake and you will descend into a spin or crash out on some rocks.

Also watch out for objects like monsters, carts and the common whale … then there are the jumps!  In–between the main games are a number of mini-games.  These can be a bit more challenging — pressing the right button at the right time is essential.  The mini–games certainly add variation to the game.  There are team options too.  One is the tag–team option where you have the chance to help those in need.  In other words, if the adults aren’t doing too well you have the chance to ease their embarrassment!

Completing the “Grand Prix” unlocks new modes of transport, tracks or cups.  There is also a circuit option where you take part in a mixture of all games (including mini–games).

There are thirty circuits to choose from and they all rock.  When the scores are added up at the end of the round the you take up your position on the winners’ podium, which shows clearly who came in first … and last.  This game is a great way to get the family together and have a laugh.  Mind you, when I played this game with my mum, I destroyed her, showing her that kids are just as good as adults at things.  I would rate this game 8 out of 10 but then again, that's a kid’s opinion, so I'm not sure about adults.