Monster Trucks Nitro -- Review

Category: racing games
Price: $1:99 (introductory price)
App Store Link: [Full] / No Lite Version

Review: Like it (with potential)
Replay Value: Medium-Low
Recommendation: A fun, racing sidescroller game with unique controls, but too few levels. Unless you can't help yourself, wait for more levels.

Monster trucks nitro has met with some mixed impressions among downloaders, but the general consensus seems to be that it's a fun game with too few levels. The game offers 8 off-road stages with no changes of scenery and no unlockable stages. Players can eventually choose between 4 monster trucks; initially it's only 2, but more become available after earning some gold metals (first unlock at 4 golds, second at 8). While the new trucks are fun, its unfortunate that players only earn both after mastering every level of the game (you can't do better than 8 golds). It would be nice to get both trucks while they're still worth using.

First, I think it's important to note that the first 2 levels aren't very fun and don't make the best use of controls (basically training levels), so players shouldn't base their impressions of the game off solely the first two levels or risk missing out on the much more interesting later levels, such as "the loop."

Game play is very fun and unique, but not without its problems. Tilting the device controls the suspension of the trucks, allowing players to get the most out of their jumps and landings. Honestly, this seems to be the heart of the game. Players are also given acceleration, breaks, and cruise control, but I was able to gold all 8 levels without using the acceleration or breaks (just turned on cruise control). The developers should probably try to make better use of the break and acceleration controls or just remove them entirely (personally, I'd lean towards the latter choice).

As far as replay value goes, Monster Trucks Nitro offers some, but not much. Only about 6 of the 8 level offer any challenge or replay value, and most of those players would probably only play until they've achieved their gold metal. Basically, once you've golded all 8 levels, it's game over.

Overall, I think this game is a lot of fun and offers a unique perspective on the driving controls of the device. If your a monster truck fanatic, you'll want to purchase this app (though there should probably be more smashing involved somewhere), otherwise--though I think you'd get a large kick out of about 6 of the 8 levels--I'd recommend waiting to see if more levels come out.
That said, if you're pockets are lined, money's not an issue, and you're simply looking for enjoyable games, this one's meets and exceeds the criteria.

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~M@