Music Drive: Chase the Beat is undeniably simple. However, it took me a while to figure out what was happening. The lack of handholding didn’t impact a thing. Yet, I would have liked a little guidance to tell me what the heck was going on! Despite my inability to see the obvious, I had fun with this retro arcade adventure game.
Salve Game Studio developed, and QUbyte Interactive published this racing experience. It is a single-player affair with 2 clear game modes. Moreover, there is a basic upgrade system where new cars and weapons can be purchased. This adds some depth to an otherwise casual and quick indie game.
Music Drive: Chase the Beat tells a limited tale.
Memorable music and a bullish game dominate proceedings. However, it is the 2 protagonists and their driving ability that takes centre stage. One is renowned for their driving and the other for their prowess with a firearm. Accordingly, they must utilise these skills as they take to the Brazilian streets.
The action is broken down into 2 game modes: Pursuit and Delivery. Both are unbelievably short, and if you fail, it doesn’t matter. You simply brush yourself off and try again. This causal design was amazing, as you can play this while tackling larger and more complex games.
The game modes.
Unsurprisingly, the game modes deliver exactly what is stated. Delivery asks you to carry rare mix tapes to a set location. If you avoid the traps, guns, and other pitfalls, you can deliver your rare tape and increase your hate level.
The hate level manipulates each playthrough. Consequently, the better you are, the more challenging things will become. Tougher enemies, more obstacles, and plenty of problems to overcome.
Pursuit asks you to chase a target vehicle to grab your rare tape. However, they are guarded by armed goons. As such, you’ll have to fight your way to your goal. Failure is just around the corner, and this can be disheartening. Luckily, jumping back in the saddle is a simple task. Consequently, you dust yourself off and try again.
Music Drive: Chase the Beat can be tailored to your tastes.
Music Drive: Chase the Beat has a pixelated finish. However, if this isn’t your thing, you can switch this off for a smooth and more pleasant aesthetic. Though the stage design is relatively refined, there are secret alleyways and jumps to discover. As such, you can experiment to add depth and excitement to each mission.
The music is where this shines. Each tape offers a new upbeat synth song. I loved the tracks and the heavy bass. The fast-tempo music creates an aggressive atmosphere. Moreover, the angry sound effects match the dangerous theme. Subsequently, it is a high-energy and hectic game.
Typical arcade controls.
The arcade-inspired controls are a little loose and twitchy. Though this may not impress you, I adored every moment—the car slides and glides between gaps. Moreover, you can handbrake turn for increased accuracy. Shooting is automatic to reduce stress. This lets you focus on the goal and little else.
I took things pretty slowly, but I got through the action in a few hours. This was a little disappointing, but the core gameplay was fun. Additionally, finding every secret and listening to every track was great. As such, there is some replay value and longevity.
Music Drive: Chase the Beat was short but sweet.
This is a short but sweet retro indie game. Hounding around every road was great fun. Furthermore, unlocking new vehicles and weapons adds some depth. As such, it’s an enjoyable arcade experience that is perfectly casual. Accordingly, I like it and recommend buying it here! Can you find all the rare mix tapes? Jump in your car, pick your weapon, and destroy everything in sight.
