Excitebots: Trick Racing

Excitebots is the newest "Excite" title for Wii. It is an updated version of Excite Truck, one of the original releases for the Wii. Fans of Excite Truck will be in familiar territory, with many of the same locales, bonuses, and tricks. But this is no simple rehash, as there are plenty of new twists and tricks to be had.

The original Excite Truck took awhile to grow on me. I doubt I would have purchased the game at all, but it was included in the Wii bundle I bought. Once I warmed to it, I quickly became obsessed with the game. The action is furious and the game is challenging, almost too much for my tastes. But I found myself having such a good time, despite some frustration, that I stuck it out until the bitter end.

Excitebots is enough like Excite Truck that I found myself hooked from the very start. At the same time, there is plenty of new content to keep the game play fresh. While many of the tracks are similar to Excite Trucks, the similarity is superficial. Excitebots takes the premise of Excite Truck and cranks it up a notch. Unlike most race games, the goal isn't necessarily to come in first place. It's more important to rack up stars by completing tricks, playing mini games, and picking up various bonuses along the way.

The "accumulation of stars" point is the best and worst part of Excitebots. The extra challenge of completing tricks and collecting bonuses adds a lot of interest and excitement to the game. But being required to complete a series of tracks with superior ratings before being allowed to progress is something I find particularly frustrating. I admit, however, that it is great incentive to keep coming back to the game.

The "bots" part of Excitebots is what really sets it apart from any other game. Instead of flying around the tracks in cars, karts, buggies, or trucks, the vehicles of choice are animal-shaped robots - lizards, ants, hornets, hummingbirds, scorpions, etc. Also new to Excitebots is a series of mini games including bowling, darts, and soccer. Online play is supported, as is an excellent two-player mode.

Tired of basic racing? Take a break with some of the mini-games, or go for a spin around the track making the best poker hands with Poker Racing.

Excitebots is compatible with the Wii wheel, unlike Excite Truck. I prefer the wheel, as it adds that extra little touch of realism to the game (plus I'm glad to have another use for it besides Mario Kart!) However, the wheel is not necessary; you can play just as well with the basic Wiimote. The controls are simple, intuitive, and responsive.

If you appreciate a unique racing experience with a bit of a challenge, you're sure to enjoy Excitebots.