The new TT game is out for early unlock members. Whilst the majority of fans wait until Thursday to get their hands on the game, here are our first impressions of TT Isle of Man: Ride on the Edge 3.
For its third entry, the TT Isle of Man: Ride on the Edge franchise has switched developers. Previously under the control of Kylotonn, it is the Milanese team of Raceward that put together this latest TT game.
With a new team behind the project, there are many changes evident in the game. But how good a job has Raceward done with this new game? Well the title released as early unlock yesterday, so it’s time to try it out. Here are our first impressions after a few hours of gameplay.
Handling: First Impressions
The major change resulting from the switch of developer from Kylotonn to Raceward for Ride on the Edge 3 is the handling. The Milanese studio is, in part, best known for creating RiMS Racing. This is often dubbed the best handling bike game on the market and by playing the new TT game; it’s clear to see why.
In this latest release by the developers, the bikes feel very controllable and predictable. This is thanks to the many rider aids coming over from RiMS. Safety nets such as a rider that clings onto the bike better go hand in hand with aids such as combined brake application and lean angle control. For those moving from car games to bikes, these helping hands make for a smooth transition.
Once you’re ready for the full biking experience, you can turn the handling model difficulty to the max. Here, reduced lean control and separate front and rear brake application mean a controller doesn’t have enough buttons for all the inputs required. However, once you get the hang of shifting the rider’s weight, controlling the different brakes and modulating throttle input, the experience is extremely satisfying. The simple act of nailing a sequence of corners will fill any racer with joy.
By removing rider aids, you are sure to find speed as well. The automatic gear shifts are frustratingly slow, whilst the speed at which your rider leans into a corner is lethargic. Just like in the real TT, players will have to choose wisely between speed and safety.
TT Isle of Man Bikes and Riders
The new Isle of Man TT game features almost 40 bikes and riders throughout its two classes. Supersport and Superbike feature in the game meaning all the race’s stars and fan-favourites are available to race. Furthermore, thanks to the handling model, one can truly tell the difference between the different bikes. Heavier bikes feel heavy and more powerful ones certainly require more focus on the straights.
The focus on two classes may offer a detailed experience of each, but there is one downside. Those that attend the event will recognise the shrieking engine note of the Super Twins and vastly different Sidecar designs. It is certainly disappointing to see the failure to include these more diverse classes. But, especially when it comes to the Sidecars requiring an overhaul of the handling model, it’s an understandable development choice.
Ride on the Edge 3 Map
Aside from the physics, a big talking point leading up to TT Isle of Man: Ride on the Edge 3‘s release was its map. The game sits entirely within an open world representation of the island.
Mainly made from the roads of the TT course, it also features a number of connecting roads. These take players to never before seen locations in the franchise such as Peel and Laxey. Those that have visited the island will recognise many locations and streets. In fact, riding around the detailed and accurate representation will render those familiar with the Isle of Man nostalgic.
Whilst it would have been great to dive deeper into the many towns and areas of the map with more open roads, the sheer size of the map is to be appreciated. We may not be able to visit the Douglas promenade, but seeing roads other than the Snaefell Mountain course is already a good start.
A Good Career Mode
The open world map isn’t just there to look pretty. It plays a big role in the career mode as players work their way towards racing in the TT. As you ride around the island exploring, you will come across various events. These are broken down into official events marked as orange on the map and challenges, shown in blue.
It’s by taking part in these orange events which often take the form of a short race that allow players to progress. A qualifying session leads to a mass start race on a short course. Win this and gain Player Experience Points; with more XP, you can enter the subsequent events in the career progression. After completing 8 orange events, you are eligible to compete in the Tourist Trophy.
The blue challenges however are more focused on helping the player upgrade their bike. Achieve the goals and earn Upgrade Points which you spend on, you guessed it, upgrades. Early on in the game, these may not be necessary to win, but with stronger opponents later on in the game, they are sure to be useful.
TT Isle of Man Game: Final thoughts
Overall, TT Isle of Man: Ride on the Edge 3 provides an excellent first impression. The handling model does a good job of assisting the player in controlling these powerful weapons for the road. However, it never feels like the game is holding your hand. One slight mistake, even in the simplest handling model will cause a monumental accident.
The big story from Ride on the Edge 3 is the open world map which encompasses the majority of the Isle of Man. With great detail, it allows players to explore more than just the Snaefell Mountain course. Furthermore, it ties in perfectly with the career mode that sees players work their way up to competing in the TT. This progression model toes the line well between providing the player with a challenge all whilst avoiding the grindy sensation of other titles.
What are your first impressions of TT Isle of Man: Ride on the Edge 3? Tell us on Twitter at @OverTake_gg or in the comments down below!
