Wave Race is a game tackles the sport of jet ski racing. Being unfamiliar with this concept, I always thought that jet skiing was more of a recreational activity, much like sitting by the sand on the beach. This was my first time learning that there exists a competitive aspect to it, too.

Perhaps to simulate the unforgiving nature of the waves themselves, the game has you fighting against them as you pass through buoys left and right. I have no idea if this is how actual jet skiing is supposed to be but this proved to be distracting more than anything. Due to these conditions, I wasn't able to finish any race properly and always finished dead last.

It feels like Wave Race is more suited for actual fans of jet skiing. Perhaps they'd find more appreciation in it. Now that I think about it, maybe actual jet skiing would prove to be more enjoyable than this.

this is a game i’ve had forever and beyond playing a couple races here and there never took the time to learn and actually play. i’m really glad i finally did! it looks absolutely incredible for a gamecube game, never have i wanted more to swim in some water from a video game. the controls take a lot of getting used to, and there’s some consistent frustrations and things they don’t explain at all but once you get the hang of it it’s honestly really satisfying to have a great race especially on the harder tracks. beating the expert circuit felt like a very genuine and exciting reward. some buoy placements are straight up evil though LOL

all in all a solid time, nothing you need to run to your gamecube and play right now or anything, but a fun and unique racer that feels really satisfying to improve at!