JDM: Rise of the Scorpion is the free prologue for the upcoming game JDM: Japanese Drift Master, offering an introduction to its world of drift racing. The prologue is set in a rural region of Japan and features a variety of driving challenges, an open-world map, and a narrative element. Available for download on Steam, this prologue acts as both a preview of the game’s mechanics and a standalone experience with its own story. While it serves to showcase the features of the full game, it also presents its own narrative, setting it apart from a traditional demo.
Although it might seem like just a demo, “Rise of the Scorpion” introduces a separate storyline and character. You take on the role of Hatori, a rebellious high school student who gets entangled in drift racing. Unlike the full game, which will focus on a different protagonist, this prologue sets the stage by exploring Hatori’s adventures and how they connect to the larger game world. The narrative is presented through manga-style art, adding a unique visual flavor to the experience. While the plot itself might feel somewhat simplistic, it successfully lays the groundwork for the deeper story that will unfold in the main release.
The game is set in the fictional Haikama Lake region, a picturesque location inspired by real-life areas in Japan such as Gunma and Saitama prefectures. Haikama Lake’s landscape, dotted with small towns, backroads, and scenic nature, offers a stark contrast to the urban environment often featured in racing games. The open-world map allows players to explore the area, taking on various missions and challenges while driving past vending machines, traditional Japanese buildings, and beautifully rendered roadside elements.
While the environment is undeniably charming, there is an element of idealization. The world, though reflective of rural Japan, feels more like a polished version of the real thing—somewhat akin to a theme park’s depiction of the country. This, however, does not detract from the immersive feel of the game for most players.
Gameplay Mechanics
In terms of gameplay, JDM: Rise of the Scorpion focuses heavily on drifting. The game includes several types of challenges, with the primary goal being to master drift racing techniques. Players accumulate points by performing drifts and other maneuvers while racing against AI competitors. The car dealership and customization garage add depth to the experience, allowing you to tweak your car’s performance and aesthetics to suit your driving style.
The open-world map, complete with AI traffic, provides additional opportunities for exploration. However, AI behavior leaves much to be desired, as other vehicles often fail to avoid collisions, adding a layer of frustration during casual driving.
The game supports various control schemes, including steering wheels, keyboards, and controllers. For those playing with advanced setups, such as the Logitech G Pro wheel, the experience is smooth once key bindings are configured. However, the handling is not without its challenges, particularly in terms of drifting. Unlike more arcade-style racers like “Need for Speed,” drifting in “Rise of the Scorpion” requires skill and practice, as the game does not allow for easy maneuvers without proper technique.
Graphics and Audio
Visually, Rise of the Scorpion offers an attractive, stylized take on rural Japan. The day-night cycle and dynamic weather add to the atmosphere, though some minor graphical issues, such as shadow delays, are noticeable. The cars themselves are well-rendered, and their designs change visibly as you modify them.
On the audio front, the game delivers satisfying engine sounds that change as you customize your vehicle. The attention to detail in the sound design helps enhance the immersive driving experience.
Customization and Tuning
Customization is a key feature of JDM: Rise of the Scorpion. Starting with an unlicensed version of the Nissan 370z, players can modify both the exterior and interior parts of their car. These upgrades not only affect the car’s appearance but also impact performance. As you progress, additional vehicles become available, including licensed models from Subaru and Mazda, adding variety to the game’s car roster.
The ability to tune your car and see the results in both handling and sound provides a deeper connection to your vehicle, making each driving session feel unique.
One of the core elements of the game is its focus on drift challenges. The prologue is unforgiving when it comes to mastering the art of drifting, and even experienced players may find it difficult at first. The game offers driving assists, but for those looking to push their skills, it demands precision. Unlike arcade-style games, simply mashing the throttle won’t be enough to maintain control during a drift, and practice is essential to success.
That said, for players who enjoy fine-tuning their drifting abilities and relish the challenge of perfecting their technique, “Rise of the Scorpion” offers a rewarding experience.
Bugs and Technical Issues
As with many early releases, JDM: Rise of the Scorpion has some technical issues that need addressing. Crashes to the desktop when exiting the map and issues with the wheel centering after loading screens are particularly problematic. However, these bugs may be patched in future updates, and their presence does not entirely diminish the overall experience.
Conclusion
JDM: Rise of the Scorpion is a promising introduction to Japanese Drift Master. Though it has its flaws, including some minor bugs and a steep learning curve for drifting, the game offers a rich, atmospheric world and a taste of what’s to come in the full release. Its setting, detailed customization options, and engaging drift mechanics make it worth exploring, especially considering its free-to-play prologue status. While the game may not yet feel fully polished, it lays a solid foundation for what could become an enjoyable and unique drifting experience once the full version is released later this year.
