Drag x Drive Review: A Unique Concept with Untapped Potential

In a world of fast-paced, high-octane competitive multiplayer games, Nintendo has attempted to carve out a new niche with Drag x Drive, a sports title exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2. The game’s premise is as unique as its controls: a fast-paced take on wheelchair basketball set in a stylized urban arena. It’s an ambitious concept that leverages the new Joy-Con 2 mouse controls to create a truly distinct gameplay experience. However, after spending time with the game, the consensus is clear: while the core mechanics are a fascinating and fun experiment, the overall package feels like a proof of concept that hasn’t fully evolved into a complete, compelling product. For players seeking a truly new experience on the gaming console, Drag x Drive is a must-try, but it may not have the staying power to become a long-term favorite.

Innovative Controls Define the Drag x Drive Experience

The most defining feature of Drag x Drive is undoubtedly its control scheme. The game requires players to use both Joy-Con 2 controllers as if they were mice, sliding them across a surface to propel and steer their on-screen character. This dual-mouse mode is a radical departure from traditional controls and is the central selling point of the game. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

• Movement: By sliding both Joy-Con 2s forward, your character accelerates. Pushing one forward while the other remains still allows for sharp turns and pivots, mimicking the physical act of pushing a wheelchair. This is an incredibly tactile and immersive experience that is unlike anything else on the market.
• Shooting: Once you have the ball, shooting is achieved by a simple flick of the wrist. This motion-controlled mechanic feels intuitive and satisfying, though some players have noted a generous auto-aim system that can make shots feel less skill-based.
• Advanced Techniques: The controls also allow for a surprising amount of depth. Players can perform “bunny hops” by quickly lifting both controllers, which can be used for blocking shots or gaining a height advantage for dunks. Tilting onto one wheel for a quick defensive maneuver is also a key part of mastering the game.

The learning curve for these controls can be steep. It requires a proper, smooth surface, and some players have reported that the physical exertion of constantly moving the controllers can lead to fatigue. However, once the controls “click,” they feel incredibly responsive and provide a level of physical engagement that is rare in modern video games.

The Double-Edged Sword: A Barebones Package

While the gameplay loop of Drag x Drive is enjoyable, the game suffers from a significant lack of content and polish outside of its core 3-on-3 online matches. This is where the game’s “tech demo” feel becomes most apparent. The experience is primarily focused on these online matches, with other features feeling underdeveloped. The main issues that prevent the game from reaching its full potential include:

• Limited Customization: The game offers very little in the way of character customization. Players can unlock a handful of different helmets by winning trophies, but there is no deep meta-progression or unlockable cosmetics to keep players invested for the long haul. This is a major drawback for a multiplayer-focused title that relies on player expression and a sense of achievement.
• Sterile Art Style: The game’s visual presentation is often described as clean but uninspired. The near-future extreme sports aesthetic is present, but it lacks the vibrant personality and charm that is often a hallmark of Nintendo’s first-party titles. The environments are functional but fail to leave a lasting impression.
• Sparse Single-Player Content: The single-player experience is limited to a small hub area with a few minigames and challenges. These activities are useful for practicing the controls, but they don’t offer enough variety or substance to make playing alone a worthwhile experience.
• No Local Multiplayer: In a surprising move for a Nintendo title, Drag x Drive does not support local split-screen multiplayer. This decision severely limits the game’s social appeal and potential for casual, couch co-op play with friends.

The Verdict: An Interesting Experiment, But Not a Mainstay

Ultimately, Drag x Drive is a game of contradictions. It’s a brilliant showcase for the unique capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2’s new controllers, offering a genuinely fresh and engaging gameplay loop that is a blast to play with friends online. The core mechanics of wheelchair basketball are well-realized, and the strategic depth of the trick system, which awards bonus points for flashy moves, is highly satisfying. The use of HD Rumble to simulate the feel of pushing a wheelchair is also a standout feature, adding to the game’s immersive qualities.

However, the game’s lack of content, generic aesthetic, and limited longevity make it difficult to recommend as a must-buy for all players. It feels like a solid foundation that is missing the full structure of a triple-A title. If you’re a fan of innovative new control schemes and are looking for a fun, competitive experience to play with a dedicated group of friends, Drag x Drive is a worthy purchase, especially at its modest price point. But if you’re expecting a deep, content-rich game with a strong sense of personality and progression, you may be left wanting more. Drag x Drive is a glimpse into a potential future for the Nintendo Switch 2, but it’s a future that still has a long way to go.