Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Apex introduces a fresh spin on the racing genre by placing you not only behind the wheel but also in the factory office. Instead of picking from licensed cars, you develop your very own prototypes. Each build offers three distinct chassis options, forcing you to weigh trade-offs between raw top speed, braking power, and acceleration. This decision-making layer adds strategic depth to every race weekend.

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The core campaign, dubbed Dream Mode, revolves around increasing your factory’s sales figures. Much like ranking points in traditional racers, sales act as currency for unlocking the next generation of prototypes and new car classes—roadsters, speedsters, supercars, and the elusive dreamcars. Success on the track directly translates to showroom buzz, driving a satisfying feedback loop between your driving skill and your factory’s growth.

With 50 courses spanning city streets, twisting mountain passes, and futuristic test tracks, Apex keeps the action varied. You’ll tackle standard circuit races, time trials, one-on-one sprints, and occasional special challenges that demand quick thinking—like navigating dynamic road hazards or meeting target lap times under shifting weather conditions. These surprises break up the monotony and reward players who master both their car and the terrain.

For those looking for instant action, the Arcade Mode delivers single races that can be enjoyed in split-screen against a friend. While it lacks the strategic factory layer, it’s perfect for local multiplayer showdown sessions. Controls feel tight and responsive across all modes, and the three-option prototype system keeps even quick bouts engaging, as each driver must optimize their pick for short-distance duels.

Graphics

Visually, Apex strikes a pleasing balance between realism and stylized flair. Car models boast gleaming paint jobs and finely detailed bodywork that reflect light dynamically, making each prototype look unique on track. You’ll notice subtle scuffs and dirt accumulating during longer races, adding to the sense of immersion.

The courses are equally impressive, with well-rendered environments that range from sunlit coastal highways to neon-lit night cityscapes. High draw distances ensure you can read upcoming turns far in advance, while foliage and trackside objects exhibit smooth level of detail (LOD) transitions. Special lighting effects—like lens flares and dust particles in rained-out events—enhance the cinematic feel without taxing performance.

While Apex may not push the absolute cutting edge of next-gen consoles, its art direction is strong and consistent. The UI overlays are sleek and unobtrusive, giving you vital stats—speed, RPM, brake temperature—at a glance. Menus are crisp and intuitive, reinforcing the professional factory theme with blueprint-style backgrounds and clean typography.

Story

At first glance, a racing game might not seem like a narrative powerhouse, but Apex weaves an undercurrent of ambition and innovation throughout its Dream Mode. You start as a modest workshop owner with a handful of test models and a dream of dominating global sales charts. Every new car class unlocked represents a milestone in your journey from underdog to industry leader.

Although there are no cutscenes featuring dramatic character moments, the progression map acts as a loose storyline. You’re guided by your factory’s board of directors and occasional media events that comment on your performance. These background threads provide context for why certain prototype types matter—roadsters for early-stage brand building, supercars for high-profile marketing, and dreamcars for cementing your legacy.

Special challenges often come with narrative framing, such as responding to a rival manufacturer’s stunt or meeting a celebrity demand for a prototype showcase. These scenarios may feel lightweight, but they inject personality into otherwise straightforward races. By the time you’re fielding multiple parallel car classes, you’ll feel a genuine sense of ownership over your automotive empire.

Overall Experience

Apex succeeds at delivering a racing experience that merges the thrill of the track with the satisfaction of managing a factory. Its three-option prototype system keeps you engaged both on and off the circuit, while 50 varied courses and multiple race categories ensure there’s always a fresh challenge waiting. The local split-screen Arcade Mode is a welcomed bonus for couch-competitive play.

Graphically, the game maintains a polished look with detailed cars, atmospheric tracks, and an unobtrusive HUD that supports rather than distracts. Performance remains stable across different platforms, and load times are reasonable, allowing you to spend more time racing and less time waiting.

Though it doesn’t boast a deep cinematic storyline, the progression-driven Dream Mode offers enough context to make each victory feel meaningful. Unlocking new prototype tiers and witnessing your factory’s growth serves as a rudimentary narrative that inspires continued play. For fans of both racing action and light management mechanics, Apex provides a compelling hybrid experience that stands out in a crowded genre.

Whether you’re in it for the strategic choices of prototype design or the pure rush of high-speed competition, Apex delivers an accessible yet nuanced package. Its balance of depth, variety, and visual polish makes it a worthwhile pick for anyone seeking a fresh take on racing games.

Retro Replay Score

7.3/10