Update: With glitches now repaired, this is one fun racer for Nintendo's system.
As for gameplay, it couldn't be better. Most of the basics from the original Sonic & Sega All Stars Racing remain intact, including doing tricks to gain boosts, picking up items like mines (in this case, blowfish) and rockets, and showing off some stylish taunts as you pass someone for the lead. It's hardly rocket science, but it's amazing how smooth it transitions between each vehicle, without anything feeling like the "odd man out". You won't even need to develop a favorite for each vehicle type – it all feels quite right.
And of course, racing with friends is always a benefit. The Wii U version of All Stars Transformed has five-played support locally (one with a GamePad, four on a split-screen), and it rocks. There's online racing too, though sessions can take a while to load up through the Nintendo Network.
(NOTE: This section has been updated now that the glitch problems have been resolved with the patch.)
Before, the game had big problems with unfinishable drift challenges and such, due to lack of checkpoints. But now that they've been fixed with the help of a downloadable patch (it prompts when you start up the game), it's just about right. The number of events and unlockable content will keep you busy for months at a time. Graphics still occasionally choke up, but nothing that gets in the way of prime performance.
What a great racing game. We're looking at the next great evolution in kart racers, and Sonic & Sega All Stars Transformed is just as good on the Wii U as it is on other consoles, despite the length of time it takes to get some loaded. Take this ride as soon as possible.
Score: 9 / 10
