Volvo: Drive for Life

"A quaint little novelty of a game. For Volvo enthusiasts!"

Volvo: Drive For Life is a rather interesting game, for one whose primary purpose is that as an advertisment for Volvo's current product line.

Volvo, an auto maker that has until recently, been largely ignored in the realm of racing games, suddenly has found its more recent (and uncharacteristically streamlined) vehicles in a number of racing titles such as Forza Motorsport, Rallisport Challenge 2, and Gran Turismo 4 (which contains the unexpected inclusion of a 1988 Volvo 240 GLT station wagon). Therefore, it is not so surprising to see Volvo turn up with its own videogame on one hand. On the other... how did Volvo, of all companies, decided to do such a thing?

Luckily, for Volvo's sake, this game isn't a complete disappointment at all. The control, despite not being able to be configured to the user's tastes, is solid, and rather reminiscent of Sega Rally, if only a little tighter and realistic on the roads. This is crucial, as the driving exercises placed in this game have an emphasis on precision (and at times, Volvo's benchmark safety). While you won't have to sit at your desk and figure out what the exact turning apex of each car you use will be, the vehicle-specific exercises will give novice to intermediate drivers a work-out.

Users can choose the Volvo S60 R, S40, or XC90 V8 (which is Volvo's first SUV) to first go through a proving ground exercise showcasing new safety features, and then through an arcade-like driving exercise full of obstacles and whatnot. In between stages, the user has the option of configuring the car with real-life option packages. Except for the transmission options (which are only available on the S60 and S40), these have no direct effect on the car's output.

Of the exercises presented, the S60 R's are the easiest, and the XC90's are the most difficult. The S40 stage can be frustrating as well. One wrong move and you'll end up crashing into something and losing time. Because the XC90 does not have a manual transmission option and is a stage where you have to race on ice and snow, not to mention having the obstacles of the S40 stage and then some, it can be maddening at times. However, expert race gamers should have no problem with any of them.

The game also contains many promotional films, and safety "blooper" reels for the player's enjoyment. It is here that you are reminded that this game is actually an interactive Volvo automobile brochure.

Unfortunately, there is no option to save data, and each stage does have a considerable amount of loading time. The game is essentially to be enjoyed in one sitting, though, every now and then, it makes for a good time killer.

Had this game a few more expanded options, it would certainly be ranked with the likes of Sega Rally. Even more so, if you were allowed to play as some of the "classic" Volvos that have turned up in recent videogames.

This game is not currently sold in stores, though rumors of it being available through GameStop and other outlets has turned up. It should, however, be available for an average of $20 on eBay for those who are really interested. Otherwise, the only other way to obtain it is through participating Volvo dealers, where it's free.

If you really love Volvo's cars, and own an X-Box (or Xbox 360, as this is one of the only games listed in the 360's meager backwards compatibility register), give this game a try. Otherwise, this game wouldn't be of much interest.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 05/14/06