Is GRID Legends a Reboot? Unpacking the Latest Installment in the Franchise
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The question of whether GRID Legends is a reboot is a nuanced one. The short answer is: no, it’s not a reboot. Instead, it is best understood as the fifth installment in the GRID franchise, building directly upon the foundations laid by the 2019 Grid reboot, rather than starting entirely anew. It takes established gameplay mechanics and elevates them with a substantial narrative-driven story mode and a host of new features. While it refreshes the formula, it firmly remains within the existing continuity of the GRID series, making it a true sequel, and not a reboot. This approach ensures that fans of the series will immediately recognize the core DNA of GRID while experiencing significant enhancements and additions.
What’s New in GRID Legends?
GRID Legends distinguishes itself from previous installments, primarily with its ambitious “Driven to Glory” story mode. This narrative-focused mode casts players as Driver 22, an up-and-coming racer for the struggling Seneca Racing team. The story unfolds through live-action cutscenes, reminiscent of a “Drive to Survive”-style documentary. These cutscenes feature accomplished actors, such as Ncuti Gatwa from Sex Education, bringing a cinematic quality to the racing experience. The story revolves around overcoming the dominance of Ravenwest Motorsport, creating a compelling narrative arc that adds a new layer of depth to the arcade racing genre.
Beyond the story mode, GRID Legends includes a more extensive career mode, a wealth of vehicles, and varied track locations. It also offers enhanced online multiplayer features, including the ability to play with up to 21 other drivers in open sessions. These enhancements, coupled with the game’s arcade-style racing focus, aim to deliver an entertaining and accessible racing experience for both casual and hardcore fans.
GRID Legends as a Sequel
As the fifth entry in the franchise, GRID Legends takes the solid foundation established by its predecessor and builds on it, rather than reinventing it from scratch. The physics model, car handling, and overall racing experience remain consistent with the reboot’s approach, albeit with some improvements. The addition of a captivating storyline with live-action elements acts as a significant leap forward, injecting freshness into the series. Therefore, while it brings substantial innovation, its basis remains rooted in the pre-existing structure and world of GRID, making it a continuation of the series.
Is It Worth Playing?
The worth of GRID Legends depends on your preferences. If you’re a fan of arcade-style racing and enjoy a good story within your gameplay, then GRID Legends is a very enjoyable addition to the series. However, if you’re seeking a more realistic, sim-like experience, you might find the game’s focus on arcade action lacking. It’s an excellent pick for those who want high-octane racing action without the complexity of a sim. The lack of a new Need for Speed or Forza during its release year also cemented its position as a frontrunner in the arcade racing genre for 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some FAQs designed to help readers understand GRID Legends better:
1. Is GRID Legends based on real events?
No, GRID Legends is entirely fictional. The narrative-driven story mode, while presented in a documentary-style format, is a creative construct. The characters and teams within the story, while engaging, are not based on real-life counterparts.
2. What is the main story of GRID Legends called?
The main story mode in GRID Legends is titled “Driven to Glory”. This mode places the player in the shoes of Driver 22, who joins Seneca Racing and faces off against the formidable Ravenwest Motorsport.
3. How long is the “Driven to Glory” story in GRID Legends?
The “Driven to Glory” story mode is estimated to take around 10 hours to complete. After this, players can move into the main career mode with the progression from the story carrying over.
4. Does GRID Legends have a career mode outside the story?
Yes, GRID Legends features an extensive career mode outside of the “Driven to Glory” mode. This longer, multi-season mode allows players to continue their racing journey, and progress through many varied races.
5. How many cars are in GRID Legends?
At launch, GRID Legends features over 120 vehicles. These vehicles span a variety of car types, from hypercars and GT racers to trucks and big rigs. The diversity of the car list is one of the game’s highlights.
6. Can you upgrade cars in GRID Legends?
Yes, players can upgrade their cars in GRID Legends. Upgrades become available as you clock up mileage with each car. These upgrades can then be purchased with in-game currency to enhance the vehicle’s performance.
7. Does GRID Legends have DLC?
Yes, GRID Legends has received multiple DLC expansions. The fourth and final major DLC, Winter Bash, was released on 26th January 2023. The game also includes the Voltz Pack and Mechanic Pass.
8. How many DLC packs are there for GRID Legends?
There are four major DLC packs for GRID Legends. Additionally there are other post-launch extras like the Voltz Pack, and the Mechanic Pass.
9. Is GRID Legends a good simulator?
No, GRID Legends is not a simulator. It’s best described as an arcade racer. If you prefer a realistic sim-like experience, other titles such as Gran Turismo 7 might be more suitable.
10. Is GRID Legends better with a wheel?
While both controllers and racing wheels can achieve comparable lap times, racing wheels enhance the gaming experience due to the added force feedback and direct drive capabilities. This feedback improves responsiveness, making for a more immersive experience.
11. Does GRID Legends feature damage?
Yes, GRID Legends does feature car damage. Certain vehicles, such as the Beltra Frostbite and Jupiter Freighter, have enhanced damage models that show a wide variety of deformation caused by crashes.
12. Does GRID Legends have a first-person view?
Yes, GRID Legends includes a first-person cockpit view, which enhances immersion. The cockpit view is particularly impressive in wet conditions with the visual effect of raindrops on the windshield.
13. How long does it take to beat GRID Legends?
Focusing only on the main objectives, GRID Legends takes around 6 hours to beat. However, achieving 100% completion can require up to 76 1/2 hours.
14. How many players can play GRID Legends?
GRID Legends supports up to 22 players in online multiplayer sessions, and offline split screen races for up to 2 players. Online modes can accommodate a range of session types, including open, co-op and teams modes.
15. What are some of the fastest cars in GRID Legends?
Some of the fastest cars in GRID Legends include the Porsche 917/30, Renault R26, and McLaren M8D. The game offers a great variety of high-performance vehicles to suit different racing styles.