Japanese Drift Master: Master Drifting Now!
Is Japanese Drift Master the next big thing in racing games? Let’s find out.
By Nora Belle || Senior Author of ADM
5 min read || August 12, 2024
Japanese Drift Master
The racing game landscape has been dominated by established franchises for years, but a fresh wave of indie developers is challenging the status quo. One such game, Japanese Drift Master (JDM), has recently captured attention with its free demo release. This article delves into what makes JDM stand out and whether it has the potential to become a major player in the genre.
Mastering the Art of Drifting
At its core, JDM is a drifting game. The developers have successfully captured the exhilarating sensation of sliding a car around corners. The game’s physics model strikes a balance between arcade-style accessibility and a sense of realism. While it doesn’t reach the simulation level of titles like iRacing, it offers a satisfying and engaging experience for both casual players and drifting enthusiasts.
A well-implemented tutorial system helps newcomers grasp the fundamentals of drifting. The game encourages experimentation and rewards players for mastering different techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned drifter or new to the concept, JDM offers a rewarding learning curve.
Beyond the Drift
While drifting is undoubtedly the star of the show, JDM offers more than just tire-smoking action. The game introduces an intriguing narrative element through anime-style comic book panels. This approach adds a unique flavor to the experience and helps build a connection between the player and the world. While the story is still in its early stages, it shows promise and could develop into a compelling aspect of the full game.
The open-world setting of Tokyo provides a visually stunning backdrop for the drifting action. The city is meticulously recreated, capturing the essence of Japanese urban environments. The inclusion of a smartphone adds a layer of interactivity, allowing players to engage in side missions and interact with the game world in new ways.
Customization and Progression
Car customization is a key component of many racing games, and JDM delivers in this area. Players can choose from a variety of vehicles, including some officially licensed models and unofficial replicas. While the car selection might not be as extensive as in larger-budget titles, the available options offer enough variety to satisfy most players.
The customization garage allows players to modify their cars with a range of visual and performance upgrades. While the depth of customization options might not match the level of detail found in games like Gran Turismo or Forza Horizon, JDM provides sufficient tools to create a unique and personalized ride.
The Verdict
Japanese Drift Master is a promising indie game that offers a fresh perspective on the racing genre. Its focus on drifting, combined with its engaging gameplay mechanics and visually appealing world, creates a compelling experience. While the game still has room for improvement, the free demo showcases the potential of JDM to become a major contender in the racing game market.
With its strong emphasis on drifting, combined with its unique narrative elements and open-world exploration, JDM caters to a wide range of players. Whether you’re a hardcore drifting enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and entertaining racing game, Japanese Drift Master is worth checking out.
