Even 12 years later, the game remains a graphic marvel and is perfectly balanced in terms of gameplay
Picture this. You're racing in first place through a narrow passage that winds through a dock. A giant wave unexpectedly carries your craft into the wall, quickly knocking you back to third place. In another course, a reef extends out from the shore. If timed correctly, this road block can become a short cut; just catch air of the crest of a wave, and you'll make it safely to the other side.
The key to every situation you are faced with is learning to anticipate and navigate the waves correctly. Because the waves are generated real time, there is no set pattern to what you will be up against. After awhile, you do get the feel for the action of each body of water you are racing in, but the learning curve always remains high, which is all part of the fun.
Although some detail is lost in the split screen mode, the game still looks incredible.
The breathtaking waves could not be any more convincing, and to understand the representation of actual water physics is to ride an actual jet ski, and then proceed to play this game. It's amazing how the developers were able to capture the look and feel of this incredible sport. Deftly maneuvering the buoys that litter the tumultuous waters of the sea, or making your way through driftwood on the serene glass surface of a lake, each of the nine courses is varied enough to keep you coming back time and time again. Little details like playful dolphins jumping beside you and misty waters obscuring the rising sun create a truly enjoyable atmosphere.
Catch some air! Even on serene waters you won't get a smooth ride, as the water is effected by your opponents jetskis.
I've been an avid participant in the sport of jet skiing for a few years now, so I certainly fell in love with Wave Race for it's attention to realism. But placed next to the myriad racing games out on the market, subjectivity aside, racing games do not get any better than this. Even if you aren't a big fan of racing games, Wave Race really is something different, and should definitely be experienced by even the most casual gamer.