Absolute Drift (Nintendo Switch) Review

There's only one thing here, and one thing only: drifting. There are no opponents to beat, no timer to race against - this is all about gaining points by drifting, and then getting more points by increasing the multiplier, which again depends on drifting, as well… as being mindful of the walls. You get bonus points for drifting close to striped posts, hitting boxes, and following the red tracks that can be found in many tracks. Drifting, drifting, drifting, and then even more drifting. Now, depending on one's experience with said technique, the challenge ranges from 'very tough,' to "oh, my god, I simply can't do this!"

Yes, Absolute Drift can be insanely irritating. In fact, the first hours will mostly be that, with little enjoyment to be found, as it will mostly feel like training, rather than playing an actual game that's meant to be difficult, but also entertaining, with the main reason being how steep the learning curve is, not to mention that you aren't really given any tips on how to play better, aside from a couple of general directions in the first or so tracks that say things like "If overturning, try slowing down." Also keep in mind that this uses a fixed isometric perspective, so those who hate tank controls should better stay away.

It's important to note that there's little joy in failure here. Whereas the fantastic Lonely Mountains: Downhill can be equally frustrating (even more so in fact), there was always a feeling of progress while playing - not to mention that gameplay was simply better, as there were more things to do than simply drifting. In other words, be prepared for spinning out or slamming into walls for a great deal of time, and not enjoying it. Weirdly enough, players who'll press on will soon reach that moment where it all clicks together, and drifting becomes their second nature. It's that moment, where you are "in the zone," when Absolute Drift starts to feel really good to play.

That being said, the fun won't last for long. This is one of those titles that are great for spending some time on a boring evening, or something, but do not really have enough meat on them to make you keep coming back to. Completionists will love doing all the little challenges available, and getting all car types, paints, and decals, but the rest will soon realise that a driving game that's all about drifting just isn't that exciting. The perfect analogy is how the minimalist visuals, and generic "Garage Mode" dance track list are decent enough… but will soon bore you to death, due to lack of variety.