• Publisher: Nintendo
  • Release Date: Oct 8, 2007
Donkey Kong: Barrel Blast Image
Metascore

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 34 Critics What's this?

User Score

Mixed or average reviews- based on 17 Ratings

  • Summary: (Known as "Donkey Kong Taru Jet Race" in Japan; as "Donkey Kong Jet Race" in the UK/EU) Donkey Kong and his pals have gotten their mitts on some high-powered Barrel Jets – incredible engines that boost when struck by a pilot. By beating on the DK Bongos controller, players can make their chcharacter swoop up, bank side to side and launch attacks on rivals. (The game also can be played using a Nintendo GameCube controller.) Players challenge the Kremlings or up to three pals on five worlds, each boasting 3-D aerial maps filled with countless obstacles and powerful items. With four people beating the bongos as they battle for the skies, this game is more party than race. [Nintendo] Expand
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 0 out of 34
  2. Negative: 19 out of 34
  1. The on-rails steering mechanic will be an insult to your gaming ability. [Apr 2008, p.79]
  2. Not very appealing, with impractical and tiresome controls, excessive repetition of scenery and short lifespan, Jet Race is way far from Nintendo’s standards.
  3. 45
    If DK Barrel Blast would have released well over a year ago on GameCube like it was supposed to the title might have had a chance at being remotely entertaining. After some seriously basic motion control, the removal of bongo support (even for those that already invested in the accessory), and some quick Mii integration the game has become a garbled mess of slow racing, shallow gameplay, and an overall boring experience.
  4. If the inconsistent controls aren't enough to steer you away from this fifth-rate Mario Kart clone, the frustrating AI and total lack of personality probably will.

See all 34 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 5
  2. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. cin
    9
    Pretty fun, easy to get started.
  2. JimU.
    8
    Personally i think game reviewers need to get off their high horses. Sometimes a game, is just that - a game! It's not all about high level graphics and "AI". These types of reviews - which is every review - are very misleading for the general public. Anyone considering this game should have a look in the store and ignire this lame reviews by so-called "gamers". These nerds only know about Splinter Cell and Halo. Donkey Kong Jet Race is fun for all. Expand
  3. DanielY.
    7
    This game is simply under-rated. It does not deserve the poor scores it has been given overall. Gameplay is fun and there's plenty to do. It may not offer the Wii's best graphics but, to be honest, i don't think it's trying to. It may not be a 'hardcore game' but it's a great family game and is best enjoyed with more than one player. Expand
  4. AlexandreB.
    6
    Not Good, but not bad, it'S an okay game. I had fun with this game but.. that's it.

See all 5 User Reviews

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