Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Kikstart: Off-Road Simulator retains the core mechanics that made the original game a classic, challenging you to pilot a motorbike across a series of increasingly inventive obstacle courses. Each failed jump or misplaced wheel sends you tumbling off your bike, instantly costing precious seconds off your timer. The addition of three distinct sets of eight levels—made possible by the Commodore 128’s expanded memory—means you can tackle short bursts of three tracks for a quick challenge or opt for the “grand slam” to brave all eight in succession.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

The split-screen design allows for both solo and head-to-head competition. In single-player mode, you’re racing against the clock; in two-player mode, you’re directly pitted against a friend’s progress bar. This dynamic keeps pressure high and excitement alive, as every wobble or near-miss could spell the difference between victory and defeat. The ability to see your opponent’s progress in real time injects an additional layer of strategy into each run.

Control responsiveness is tight, and the physics model—simple by today’s standards—is nonetheless rewarding. Balancing the throttle and timing your landings require a keen sense of pacing, especially on the more devious later tracks. While the learning curve is gentle at first, mastering the precise input needed for the most demanding course elements will test even seasoned players.

Graphics

Visually, Kikstart: Off-Road Simulator carries over the charm of its Commodore heritage with crisp, vibrant sprites set against plainly rendered but readable backdrops. The graphics may not push the envelope of what the C128 could do, but the increase in color palette and memory availability does allow for more varied track designs and less flicker than competitors on the 64-bit machine.

Each obstacle is clearly defined—wooden ramps, oil slicks, water hazards, and more—and though the backgrounds are modest, the foreground action remains sharply in focus. The game leverages its extra RAM chiefly for level variety rather than graphical overhaul, so players familiar with Kikstart or Kikstart 2 will feel instantly at home with the look and feel.

Frame rates remain consistent even when both players appear on a split-screen display, ensuring your bike never judders in mid-air. Animations are simple but effective: wheels spin, flames occasionally flicker off exhausts, and subtle scroll effects convey momentum. It’s a testament to efficient programming that such smooth performance is maintained across all three level packs.

Story

Kikstart: Off-Road Simulator does not weave an elaborate narrative; instead, it casts you as an off-road motorbike enthusiast competing in a series of adrenaline-fuelled track events. The game’s primary focus is on pure, unadulterated stunt riding rather than plot or character progression. This no-frills approach keeps the spotlight firmly on gameplay challenges.

Each set of eight tracks presents its own thematic progression, from beginner-friendly jumps to expert-level gauntlets of ramps, logs, and uneven terrain. Though there’s no cutscene or story text to deepen immersion, the escalating difficulty provides a sense of achievement akin to advancing through levels in a traditional campaign.

In lieu of narrative, the ever-present timer serves as your guiding force, driving you to shave off split seconds and eke out a personal best. The “grand slam” mode, in particular, gives a tournament-style rhythm to the experience: you’re not just clearing obstacles, you’re staging a virtual rally.

Overall Experience

Kikstart: Off-Road Simulator strikes a pleasing balance between accessibility and challenge. The triple set structure offers a wealth of content, letting newcomers get a taste with three quick tracks while veterans can undertake the full grand slam of eight. This expanded level count is the game’s standout feature, breathing new life into an already solid formula.

The absence of Kikstart 2’s construction kit is noticeable—there’s no track editor to unleash your creativity—but for players primarily interested in racing and obstacle-course mastery, this C128-exclusive iteration delivers exactly what it promises. The split-screen two-player mode remains one of its strongest draws, turning a solo time trial into a tense head-to-head duel.

Ultimately, Kikstart: Off-Road Simulator is a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, well-crafted gameplay. It may not dazzle with flashy graphics or deep storytelling, but its core mechanics and generous level catalog ensure a highly replayable experience. For Commodore 128 owners and retro racing aficionados alike, it stands as a worthy addition to any collection.

Retro Replay Score

null/10