Hot Wheels: Battle Force 5 is a pretty shallow game that doesn't really excite or engage the player. There are a limited number of levels and the multiplayer just doesn't have it. Still, the cutscenes are well done, the voice work is reminiscent of the show, and being able to unlock episodes of the program and art are nice touches that are sure to appeal to the franchise's young fanbase.
Presentation - 7.0
Graphics - 6.5
Sound - 7.0
Gameplay - 5.5
Lasting Appeal - 5.0
Overall -
If you've even seen the show, you already know Battle Force 5 isn't exactly Pixar-quality CG. What it lacks in "wow," it makes up for in style. This plays well on the Wii, which also lacks a visual "wow" factor. Both are seemingly made for each other and Hot Wheels Battle Force 5 is better for it. This is about as close to the show's visuals as the Wii is going to get, and it looks good. All of the characters and cars from the show are here, along with arenas and worlds pulled directly from the show. This, along with from-the-show quality audio and voicework, would make any fan happy, then comes the gameplay.
CSM writes: "Hot Wheels Battle Force 5 follows a quintet of action heroes who defend the planet against an evil robot army by driving heavily armed cars, motorcycles, and trucks. The plot of this game revolves around the Battle Force trying to find keys that will close up energy portals through which the robots plan to invade Earth. There is also a Battle Mode (1 or 2 players) in which several combat cars try to swipe a key from one another and return it to a portal to get points."
Hot Wheels: Battle Force 5 isn't something you need to play. It isn't that fun to play, doesn't look good with its empty environments and disappearing characters, and features a repetitive soundtrack. There's no reason to pick this one up.
Presentation - 4.5
Graphics - 4.5
Sound - 5.0
Gameplay - 4.5
Lasting Appeal - 4.0
Overall -
