Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Hummer: Badlands delivers a raw, adrenaline-fueled racing experience that throws you into the driver’s seat of 19 different Hummer models. From the instant you hit “Start,” you’re thrust into a variety of race types—from the structured Championship circuit to the brute-force Tug’O’War and the heart-pounding Extreme Off-road mode. Each mode demands a unique playstyle, whether you’re mastering tight turns on muddy tracks or revving your engine to pull opponents across a finish line in a high-stakes tugging contest.

The Championship mode serves as the backbone of the game’s single-player content, pitting you against increasingly skilled AI opponents. Progression feels tangible, as podium finishes grant you cash and unlocks for new Hummer chassis, vibrant paint jobs, and performance upgrades. Meanwhile, Tug’O’War offers a fun twist on standard racing—strategic throttle control and quick reflexes are paramount as you and an opponent vie to drag each other past the centerline. It’s a surprising highlight that breaks up the racing routine.

Extreme Off-road ramps up the difficulty by throwing unpredictable weather and environmental hazards into the mix. You’ll barrel through torrential rain, navigate fallen trees, plow across thick underbrush, and climb rocky inclines as you chase the summit. The physics engine shines here: suspension reacts realistically to bumps, and traction changes dynamically with every muddy patch. Veteran racers will appreciate the nuanced handling, while newcomers can tweak steering assists and stability controls to find their groove.

Graphics

Visually, Hummer: Badlands strikes a balance between gritty realism and arcade flair. Each Hummer model is meticulously detailed, with accurate vehicle proportions, rugged bodywork, and customizable accessories that reflect real-world off-road rigs. Close-ups of your truck reveal scuffs, mud splatters, and environmental wear, lending authenticity to every race.

The track design is equally impressive. From sun-bleached deserts and dense forests to craggy mountain passes, the diverse environments are brought to life through dynamic lighting and weather effects. Rain slicks off the hood, mud wings fly up behind your tires, and dust clouds swirl in your wake. While textures occasionally appear a bit low-res on distant foliage, the overall visual presentation remains immersive.

Performance-wise, the game runs smoothly on mid-range hardware, maintaining a stable framerate even during split-screen multiplayer. Particle effects, such as dirt sprays and tire smoke, add a visceral feel to every skid and jump. Color palettes shift naturally as you move from open plains into shadowed woods, keeping each race visually engaging and preventing fatigue over extended play sessions.

Story

Hummer: Badlands doesn’t weave an elaborate narrative; instead, it embraces the spirit of off-road competition. The “story” emerges organically as you rise through the ranks of the Championship, earning reputations, customizing your rides, and challenging rival drivers at remote outposts. It’s a sandbox of vehicular expression rather than a scripted tale with cutscenes.

That said, the game layers a loose progression arc that hints at a world obsessed with extreme adventure. Unlocking new hummers and tracks feels like milestones in your journey. You might imagine yourself recruiting a crew of fellow off-roaders, scouting new terrains, and fine-tuning your truck for grueling mountain ascents—a narrative you construct through each victory and upgrade.

The absence of a linear storyline is a deliberate design choice, focusing attention on the core racing mechanics. If you’re looking for character-driven drama or cinematic sequences, you may find the presentation sparse. However, for players who crave uninterrupted racing and the freedom to build their own off-road legend, this minimalist approach to story works in its favor.

Overall Experience

Hummer: Badlands delivers a robust package for fans of off-road racing, blending diverse modes with intuitive controls and satisfying vehicle progression. Whether you’re chasing trophies in Championship mode, duking it out in Tug’O’War, or braving the elements in Extreme Off-road, there’s a solid mix of challenge and customization to keep you engaged.

The inclusion of 2-player split-screen multiplayer is a welcome throwback, offering head-to-head thrills in the same room. It’s straightforward to set up and strikes a nice balance between competitive and casual play. Online multiplayer may be absent, but local battles and co-op runs through the ragged Badlands tracks ensure you’ll get plenty of mileage out of the social experience.

While the story framework is minimal and some graphical elements show their age, the heart of Hummer: Badlands lies in its authentic off-road physics and the sheer joy of piloting these iconic trucks. With deep vehicle customization, varied environments, and an addictive unlock system, this game will appeal to anyone craving a rugged, hands-on racing adventure. For buyers seeking a pure, unfiltered Hummer racing fix, Badlands delivers the goods.

Retro Replay Score

5.8/10