Review: G1 Jockey (Wii)

It’s been over five years since Gamestyle took the role of a jockey in a videogame and the memories of G1 Jockey’s European debut remain strong. While it is easy to dismiss G1 Jockey simply as a niche title, and an oddity, there is a surprising amount of depth woven into the experience. Now finding itself on the Nintendo Wii, the obvious benefits of the control system should inject even more realism into what was previously a real test of skill, but will it be enough?

Time has not been kind, and Gamestyle’s jockeying ability puts us firmly at the back of the field. The tutorial mode is essential for this release, as it explains the various mechanisms of control, and how to handle your ride effectively. You can try out specific scenarios, which test a particular control option, and there is certainly a wide range available to you. There are three levels of control, with the most advanced requiring expert knowledge and confidence in the G1 Jockey control method. The nunchunk and Wii Remote can prompt actions such as driving, whipping, steering, changing lead leg, in a comphrensive appreciation of the Wii system. The option to practice is thankfully always open, or you can select the one off race mode to try out your jockeying skills without fear of losing credibility in the career option.

The career mode is the real challenge and should only be attempted after substantial effort in the supporting modes. Despite your career immediately commencing in the final few weeks of Jockey School, this is sadly not enough. As after graduating you’re very much left on your own, trying to build relationships with stable owners and raise your profile. Losing badly is not a preferred option and can be detrimental long-term, eroding any initial support or favouritism. Thereby making a tough experience, even more insurmountable. So while G1 Jockey is challenging to pick a winner and obtain victory, more than likely the first few weeks of the season will be about holding your own. G1 Jockey is a test not only of skill, but also strategy and management, as you can plan your race tactics and judge the field of competitors. Sometimes the wisest move you can make is to turn down a ride, as you must question why no one else has taken it previously.

Control is not the only hurdle you need to overcome, as knowledge of horse racing is preferred. Initially you won’t have the choice of the field, so pursing damage limitation is in order. Learning what your ride prefers in terms of racing style is essential, as it seems a happy horse is more likely to win or at least perform to its potential. You can train with your mooted ride in advance of the race, trying to build up a rapport and increase your chances of victory with a series of mini-games. Some horses prefer to lead, others to burst from the pack in the final lengths. Whatever horse you find yourself upon, flogging it to death is not beneficial, although it is a great stress reliever.

Visually G1 Jockey is good enough, with the horses and riders receiving most of the attention, particularly when discussing animation. The racecourses and environments are passable without ever evoking any drama or excitement as you go past the main grandstand. The audio tries its best to spark some atmosphere with the roar of the crowd, however a quick glance to your side will shatter any delicate illusion that has been created.

The presentation within the career mode is typical Koei, relying heavily on static backdrops, text conversations, menus and inoffensive background music. It is pretty much what we’ve come to expect in any Dynasty Warriors release, however here the game includes a soap opera style approach to your career, with events on and off the track adding a touch more drama to your career. There is a real sense of community and interest in your progress with journalists and stable owners watching your development with interest.

The added bonus is that the races themselves are great fun to participate in, or even to watch from afar. All too often your horse will tire due to being overworked in the early stages of the race, prompting your rapid demise from first place to the back of the field. Yet you immediately want to get back in the saddle to try again, and the two-player mode against a friend is also great fun, if limited. During the race there is no opportunity to switch off, as you must be aware of every potential hazard and the wellbeing of your horse.

Overall G1 Jockey remains faithful to its roots, those hoping for a fun take on horse riding in the same vein as Wii Play will be disappointed. For fans of the series and racing enthusiasts this might be as close as you come to participating in your own race, and savouring the joys of victory. For those of us looking for a unique experience combined with a strong implementation of the Wii remote and nunchunk, G1 Jockey is a good outside bet.

Rating: 7 / 10

Words by Jason Julier