Short races create a long-lasting sense of conquest

[JuanNolan]

The control system is the most unique feature of speed stars. The game doesn't only demand holding down a button to increase speed; it involves a continuous, rhythmic series of motions to mimic the movement of an athlete's legs. It gives a far more realistic feeling than you get in other racing games. At first players often find it hard to maintain the same tempo. But with experience they know how to get into the most effective running rhythm. The exact synchronization of motions makes it possible to improve speed, but also to avoid superfluous movements. This learning process adds a lot of complexity to the game play. The game pushes players to hone their talents over time, not only chase short-term wins. It is a basic yet beautifully built method.
What also makes speed ​stars so attractive is its capacity to generate pressure in a very short period. Each race is just a few seconds long, yet there is a lot of suspense in those seconds. As players near the finish line they prefer to go faster in order to better their performance. But that is when it's most likely to go wrong. Any advantage is immediately cancelled out by a temporary loss of rhythm. This is a sense of drama that few other sports events can pull off. Players need to learn to keep their heads when it matters most. It’s the steady run till the last meters, hurrying does not lead to successful races. That pressure makes every win that much sweeter.