Those who have played with toy cars, and those fortunate enough to have constructed tracks to race them along will surely get to appreciate Groove Racer, the simple yet very challenging game from Outfit 7. While most racing games employ complicated controls, Groove Racer utilizes a simple tap, hold, and release mechanic that even younger players will enjoy. Things are not as easy as it seems, however, as it will take quite some skill in order to progress in this particular game.
Gameplay
Groove Racer is a racing game with very simple controls. Players can accelerate by tapping and holding onto the screen, and they can brake by releasing their finger. Several tracks feature different twists, bends, and track switches that players must maneuver through properly in order to get the best time. Further tracks can be unlocked by collecting trophies which are earned by beating time milestones set for each stage.
Trophies
Trophies are an integral part of Groove Racer. There are a total of three trophies to be earned for each level, and players are awarded depending on the time that it takes for them to finish the race. Trophies are required in order to unlock the next set of stages, as the game will require a specific number of trophies before succeeding levels would be accessible.
Stages
Each set of stages comprises of different levels that allows players to use different vehicles to race across similarly themed tracks. Some tracks may be unlocked naturally via collecting the required amount of trophies, while others must be unlocked by inviting other players via Facebook. Other tracks must be unlocked via in-app purchases.
Tips and Tricks
The two main goals in Groove Racer are to finish with the fastest time possible, and to get as many trophies as possible. In order to do this, you must stick to the following tips and tricks below:
If you are an advanced player, make sure to turn Easy Mode off. Easy Mode limits your maximum speed, although it provides you with the benefit of having more control over your braking abilities. Having Easy Mode off will require you to be more precise when braking, however, so make sure that you are able to master the braking mechanics before you move to this next level. Although it is possible to earn all three trophies and get the best time despite having Easy Mode off, it would be much easier for you to catch up even if you make a few mistakes along the way if you have that extra velocity working for you.
Take note of markings on the road, as these signify places where you would have to ease off on speed. Sharp curves and track changes are the main problems that you will be facing, so make sure to take notice of these when they appear. Some areas are also quite problematic even if they are unmarked, so know where these places are, and if you find yourself turned around, simply restart and try again with that knowledge on hand so that you can do better next time around.
Double tapping works best in these problem areas. This means that you do not actually release your hold on the screen for an extended period of time, costing you precious seconds in the race. Double tapping will allow you to slow down adequately while still being at a respectable speed in order to go over curves and track changes without greatly affecting acceleration. This will allow you to get more out of your vehicles while not having to brake too hard. Also, time your brakes by releasing your finger just before your car meets the red line, and resume holding on the screen once you are out of the area.
Lastly, make sure that you return to previous tracks in order to get trophies that you may have missed. Sometimes, it only takes a couple of milliseconds to earn that third trophy, and all you need is to make vary miniscule adjustments to your racing strategy to get that best time. Finish all stages in a specific track and come back to those that you have not gotten all three trophies from so that you would be able to unlock the next set of stages.