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Asphalt 5
Asphalt 5
from Wikipedia

Asphalt 5
App icon featuring a Lamborghini Murciélago SV
Developers
  • Gameloft Bucharest
  • Gameloft Mexico (Android, Windows Phone)
PublisherGameloft
SeriesAsphalt
PlatformsiOS, Freebox, webOS, Android, Symbian^3, Bada, Windows Phone 7
ReleaseiOS
  • WW: November 2, 2009 (iPhone)
[1]
  • WW: April 2, 2010 (iPad)
Freebox
  • FRA: January 1, 2010
webOS
  • WW: January 8, 2010[2]
Android
  • WW: March 18, 2010[3]
Bada
  • WW: August 13, 2010[4]
Symbian
  • WW: October 2010[5]
Windows Phone
  • WW: July 16, 2012[6]
GenreRacing
ModesSingle-player, multiplayer

Asphalt 5 is a 2009 racing video game developed and published by Gameloft and is the fifth major game of the Asphalt series. It was released for iOS on November 2, 2009,[1] for webOS on January 8, 2010,[2] for Android on March 18,[3] for Symbian^3 and Bada on December 22,[5][4] and for Windows Phone 7 on July 16, 2012.[6]

Gameplay

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Gameplay showing the virtual steering wheel control option; the brake is on the right, above it is the turbo button.

Asphalt 5's gameplay is very similar to that of Asphalt 4: Elite Racing and Ferrari GT: Evolution, with the player given the option of either tilting the device, touching the side of the screen to steer or using a virtual on-screen steering wheel. The iPhone version of the game uses landscape steering. The game also has a multiplayer mode, both local through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and global through an internet connection.

There are 30 licensed vehicles available and 17 locations to race at.

Reception

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Upon its release, Asphalt 5 received generally favorable reviews. The iOS version holds an aggregate score of 82 out of 100 on Metacritic, based on six reviews,[8] and 87% on GameRankings, also based on six reviews.[7]

IGN's Levi Buchanan awarded the game a score of 8 out of 10, lauding the fact that it didn't take itself too seriously; "Asphalt 5 is a pure arcade racer. It combines the smash 'em elements of Burnout and the hardcore racing thrills of Ridge Racer into a sometimes silly but always manic speeder. If you go into this expecting a precision driving sim along the lines of Real Racing, you will be severely disappointed. But if you download Asphalt 5 with the expectation of Mr. Toad's Wild Ride with Ferraris, you will be suitably satisfied."[9]

TouchArcade were similarly impressed, scoring the game 4.5 out of 5, and praising the graphics; "Even though you may not be focused on the details, Gameloft obviously has. Whether racing through snow-covered freeways, mud soaked roads, or the darkness of night, the details are everywhere. From the signs on storefronts to damage on vehicles, Gameloft has definitely spent a good deal of development creating an arcade experience with good degree of visuals."[11]

ToughGen's Dave LeClair was also impressed, scoring the game 4 out of 5, also praising the graphics; "This is best looking game so far. There are over 30 different cars in the game, and each looks as if it was gone over with a fine tooth comb, because they all look incredible. The 12 cities in the game also look fantastic, and are nothing but a pleasure to play. The very first level is played in a snowy area, and as you are driving, snow actually hits the screen and melts away. It's this fine attention to detail that really sets Asphalt 5 apart in the graphics department."[10]

Slide to Play's Andrew Podolsky was slightly less enthusiastic, scoring it 3 out of 4, and criticizing the physics; "it's an over-the-top, incredibly bouncy racer that plays a bit more like Jelly Car than Real Racer. While we like arcade racers a lot, these cars don't seem to have any real weight or power behind them, even though they look great on the road and in the garage." They were also critical of the difficulty of "Elimination" mode and called the option to purchase scantily-clad female models who give bonuses during races "juvenile, even for a racing videogame."[1]

Andrew Bares of WMPoweruser was unimpressed with the 2012 Windows Phone port, scoring the game 2 out of 5 and arguing "any game nowadays that doesn't support Mango multitasking AND doesn't even support NoDo resuming to your paused state is a total fail. Respond to a text message in the middle of the race and you have to wait ~8 seconds for the game to load and then it puts you back at the start line, losing all your progress!"[12]

A Sony PSP 'Minis' version was planned according to IGN,[13] GameSpy[14] and GameStats[15] but ultimately never saw a release on the platform. To date, only the icon exists[16] for this version.

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Asphalt 5 is a 2009 racing video game developed and published by Gameloft as the fifth installment in the Asphalt series, serving as a direct sequel to Asphalt 4: Elite Racing. It was initially released on November 2, 2009, for iOS devices, with the Android version following on March 18, 2010, and subsequent ports to platforms including Symbian, PlayStation Portable, Windows Phone, and Nintendo 3DS (as Asphalt 3D in 2011). The game features an arcade-style racing experience with 33 licensed vehicles from manufacturers such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, and BMW, set across 12 diverse tracks in real-world locations like Rio de Janeiro, Saint Tropez, and New York (with additional tracks, such as Tokyo, on some platforms). Players can engage in eight event types, including classic races, elimination modes, cop chases, and drift contests, enhanced by dynamic weather effects like rain, snow, and fog, as well as varied track surfaces from tarmac to ice and dirt. A career mode progresses through AI opponents and police pursuits, while multiplayer supports online versus racing and ghost challenges for up to six players via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Notable for its improved graphics engine and touchscreen controls optimized for mobile devices, Asphalt 5 achieved over 20 million downloads worldwide and received positive for its high-speed action and accessibility, earning an aggregate score of 82 on . The title also introduced a tuning system for upgrading car performance in areas like handling, engine power, and nitro boosts, solidifying the series' emphasis on fast-paced, stunt-filled .

Development and Production

Background and Design

Asphalt 5 served as the direct sequel to Asphalt 4: Elite Racing, capitalizing on the franchise's growing popularity to expand its reach across emerging mobile platforms, including the newly viable Android ecosystem following the series' earlier entries like Asphalt 3: Street Rules. Developed by , the title was announced in mid-2009 amid high anticipation, with hands-on demos shown at PAX in 2009, and the team leveraging advancements in hardware, particularly the iPhone's capabilities, to push the boundaries of mobile . Key design decisions centered on enhancing visual fidelity and gameplay accessibility through a newly developed , which allowed for more detailed environments and responsive touch-based controls, emphasizing an arcade-style experience over realistic simulation. The game featured 33 licensed vehicles from prestigious manufacturers such as Ferrari, , , and , representing over 20 brands in total to provide players with authentic high-performance options and a sense of wish-fulfillment . Tracks drew inspiration from real-world elite events, incorporating 12 global locations with dynamic elements like varied surfaces—including snow, ice, dirt, water, and tarmac—to introduce environmental challenges and diversity without compromising fast-paced fun. Development occurred primarily at Gameloft's studios, including the team which contributed to Asphalt 5, reflecting the company's global operations to adapt the core experience across devices. Although versions for PSP Mini and mobile were initially planned, these were ultimately cancelled to prioritize smartphone releases. The overall approach marked a shift toward broader , positioning Asphalt 5 as a pivotal entry that set new standards for the series with its blend of licensed authenticity and arcade excitement.

Technical Features

Asphalt 5 introduced a new graphics engine that enhanced visual fidelity over its predecessor, Asphalt 4, by incorporating advanced lighting, dynamic shadows, and improved particle effects for more realistic environmental interactions such as dust, smoke, and water splashes during races. This engine supported detailed rendering of 33 licensed vehicles from multiple camera angles, including far, near, and cockpit views, while rendering exotic locations like and urban settings like New York with greater artistic detail and atmospheric depth. The game adapted to early mobile hardware through flexible control schemes, including accelerometer-based tilting for , touch-screen gestures for and braking, and virtual on-screen buttons for manual input, allowing players to select options based on device capabilities and personal preference. These controls were refined for a responsive arcade-style feel, with tuning modes enabling adjustments to handling, , nitro boosts, and visual styles to customize vehicle performance. Multiplayer functionality was a key technical advancement, supporting local connections via or for up to six players and online races through the LIVE service, which allowed global , chat in lobbies, and participation in tournaments or the Asphalt Academy for skill-based challenges. A ghost racer mode further enhanced competition by letting players race against recorded performances from previous sessions. Vehicle customization extended to unlockable upgrades that provided stat boosts, such as installing an for better or a turbo system for increased top speed and handling, effectively acting as performance enhancers without physical crew elements. Optimization targeted early smartphones, requiring iOS 3.0 or later for and compatibility, and Android 1.6 (Donut) or higher, with the HD version on supporting native resolutions up to 1024x768 to leverage the device's larger screen and processing power. A standout technical feature was the implementation of dynamic weather systems on select tracks, including snowfall, , and , which altered traction, , and gameplay dynamics by affecting surface conditions like ice, dirt, or wet tarmac in real-time.

Release and Platforms

Launch Timeline

Asphalt 5 debuted on mobile platforms in late 2009, marking Gameloft's expansion of the Asphalt series to touchscreen devices with a focus on high-definition graphics and multiplayer features. The initial launch targeted , where it was released as a premium title priced at $6.99, allowing players to access core content upon purchase while offering in-app purchases for additional vehicle customizations and ad removal. Subsequent ports followed a phased rollout across emerging mobile operating systems, prioritizing compatibility with devices from major manufacturers. The version arrived first among these on January 8, 2010, for and devices. The Android port launched on March 18, 2010, expanding availability to Google's ecosystem with optimized touch controls. An iPad-specific edition, Asphalt 5 HD, was released on April 2, 2010, leveraging the larger screen for enhanced visuals. Later in 2010, versions for ^3 and Samsung's Bada platform were introduced in October and August, respectively, targeting and Samsung feature phones in markets like and . A France-exclusive release for the Freebox Revolution occurred on December 14, 2010, as part of Gameloft's partnership with ISP Free to deliver HD gaming via broadband. In 2011, a port titled was released for the , featuring enhanced 3D visuals. The rollout concluded with a version on July 25, 2012, supporting Microsoft's mobile platform amid declining for older systems. Regional variations included earlier access in for and Bada editions, reflecting Gameloft's European headquarters and partnerships with local carriers like , though no traditional console versions were developed. Post-launch support involved minor patches in 2010 and 2011, primarily addressing bug fixes and improving multiplayer stability across and Android, with updates like enhanced connectivity for Gameloft Live servers.
PlatformRelease DateNotes
(iPhone)November 2, 2009Initial launch; priced at $6.99 with in-app purchases.
January 8, 2010For and devices.
AndroidMarch 18, 2010Optimized for early Android handsets.
(iPad, HD)April 2, 2010Enhanced graphics for tablet.
BadaAugust 13, 2010Samsung-specific mobile OS.
^3October 2010Primarily for devices; earlier European availability.
(as )March 27, 20113D-enhanced port.
(France)December 14, 2010HD version via set-top box.
July 25, 2012Final major port.

Supported Devices

Asphalt 5 was developed to run on a wide array of early and mobile platforms, reflecting the fragmented mobile ecosystem of the late 2000s and early 2010s. The game launched primarily on devices starting with the and later models, Android devices running version 1.6 (Donut) or higher, Symbian^3 smartphones, Samsung's Bada OS, Palm devices such as the and later models, handsets, the (as ), and even the Freebox HD console for television-based play. To ensure compatibility across diverse hardware, Asphalt 5 required a minimum of 256 MB RAM and support for graphics acceleration, which enabled 3D rendering on entry-level devices of the era like the and early Android phones. These specifications allowed the game to deliver its arcade-style racing visuals without overwhelming lower-powered processors, though performance varied by device; for instance, it ran adequately on 512 MB RAM-equipped phones such as the ZTE Blade. The game featured platform-specific adaptations to optimize performance on lower-end hardware. On devices, graphics were scaled down to maintain frame rates, while higher-end versions like Asphalt 5 HD on offered enhanced resolutions and effects. Brand-tied exclusives included unique vehicles, such as the Samsung WCG Car available only on Samsung Bada or devices, promoting partnerships with manufacturers. Multiplayer functionality required either an internet connection for global races against distant players or local wireless options like and for up to six players in proximity-based matches, enabling social play without cellular data. By the mid-2010s, Asphalt 5 was delisted from major app stores due to outdated compatibility with modern OS updates, though it remains playable on legacy and emulators for preserved devices.

Gameplay

Core Mechanics

Asphalt 5 employs arcade-style physics that emphasize high-speed maneuvering over realistic simulation, allowing vehicles to handle dynamically across varied surfaces such as , , , , and tarmac, which alter traction and require adaptive driving. Drift-based handling is central, enabling players to slide around corners while building speed, though collisions with obstacles or opponents result in damage that temporarily reduces velocity and control. effects like snowfall, rain, or further influence physics by impacting visibility and grip, adding layers to the core driving experience. Nitro boosts serve as a key , collected through on-track pickups like nitro canisters or generated via performing stunts and drifts, providing short bursts of enhanced speed to overtake rivals or escape hazards. These boosts are essential for maintaining momentum, particularly in tight corners or during pursuits, but overuse can lead to depletion without recharge opportunities. Collision integrate with nitro use, as opponents while boosted can eliminate them in certain scenarios, though precise timing is required due to the game's forgiving yet chaotic impact detection. Control options cater to mobile playstyles, including tilt-based steering via device for intuitive leaning into turns, touch sliders for directional input, and on-screen buttons for , braking, and nitro activation; sensitivity settings allow customization for precision. These schemes support seamless transitions between drifting and straight-line speed, with tilt often preferred for its immersive feel during high-stakes races. AI opponents scale in difficulty based on event progression, starting with predictable patterns and escalating to aggressive blocking and faster pacing to challenge skilled players. Basic race types include time trials for solo lap optimization, checkpoint races that emphasize navigation through urban environments, and competitive events against AI, all unified by the core loop of drafting, drifting, and nitro management. Progression occurs through a career mode where players earn credits from race completions to purchase and upgrade over 30 licensed vehicles, focusing on components like engines and tires for improved handling and nitro efficiency; driving levels unlock additional events and customization options. Unique mechanics such as wall-riding—scraping against barriers in corners to minimize speed loss—enhance cornering efficiency, while elimination variants progressively remove the last-place racer each lap to intensify competition.

Game Modes

Asphalt 5 offers a variety of structured play options designed to cater to different player preferences, from structured progression to competitive and exploratory experiences. The game's modes emphasize racing diversity, with objectives ranging from time-based challenges to head-to-head competition, all built around the core arcade racing framework. Career mode serves as the central single-player campaign, comprising 48 events distributed across 12 locations that progressively increase in difficulty. Players begin with entry-level vehicles and unlock higher performance classes from E to A, along with additional cars, as they advance. Progression requires earning 3 stars in every event by surpassing specific benchmarks, such as finishing positions, drift scores, or time limits, which rewards players with currency for vehicle upgrades and further unlocks. This mode encourages strategic vehicle management and adaptation to escalating challenges, including encounters with police pursuits in later stages. For casual play, Single Race mode enables quick sessions where players select from any unlocked event type, including (standard lap-based ), Elimination (periodic removal of the last-place racer), (time trial against a set duration), and (one-on-one confrontations). These standalone races allow immediate access to preferred challenges without career commitments, serving as an entry point for honing skills or replaying favorites. Multiplayer enhances social and competitive elements, supporting local play for up to 8 players connected via or for split-screen or ad-hoc races. Online functionality integrates LIVE, enabling global versus matches, real-time leaderboards, and ghost racing against recorded performances from other players worldwide, fostering a of ongoing . The game incorporates 8 distinct event varieties to vary objectives and replayability, moving beyond traditional to specialized tests of . Notable examples include Lap Race, a multi-lap circuit competition focused on overtaking and position maintenance; Drift Challenge, a score-based mode rewarding sustained and stylish drifts around corners; and Speed Trap, which tasks players with attaining peak velocities through checkpoint zones. These events, alongside others like elimination formats, duels, and cop chases, integrate core mechanics such as acceleration and handling to demand tactical approaches.

Vehicles and Customization

Asphalt 5 includes a roster of 33 licensed vehicles drawn from prestigious manufacturers such as , , , and , including both cars and motorcycles. Notable examples encompass the Audi R8 4.2 FSI Quattro, Bugatti Veyron 16.4, and , providing players with a diverse selection of high-performance vehicles inspired by real-world models. These vehicles are categorized into performance classes ranging from E, the slowest tier exemplified by the Mini Cooper S, to A, the fastest represented by models like the Ferrari 599XX; the lineup includes motorcycles such as the Ducati Monster 1100S. Performance characteristics vary by class, balancing attributes such as top speed, handling, and nitro acceleration, with the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 achieving a maximum speed of 407 km/h in gameplay. Players acquire primarily through mode progression, where success in races unlocks new , or via direct in-app purchases using earned credits; certain exclusives, such as branded tied to specific device manufacturers like , are automatically granted based on the user's hardware. Customization options focus on performance enhancements and basic , allowing upgrades to key components including the , tires, and nitro system, all purchased with in-game credits to improve stats like and grip. Visual modifications are more limited, restricted to selecting from available colors and wheel rims to personalize the appearance without extensive body alterations.

Tracks and Environments

Asphalt 5 includes 12 core tracks set in real-world-inspired locations across several countries, such as , Aspen in the United States, , in , Rio de Janeiro in , in , and in , , , New York, and . Additional tracks like in , , , , and appear in platform-specific versions, such as the Android edition, expanding the global variety. These environments draw from urban, coastal, and mountainous settings, providing diverse racing backdrops that enhance the arcade-style gameplay. Each track features multiple layouts with varying routes and directions, including forward and reverse orientations, to promote replayability and strategic pathfinding. Routes differ in length and complexity, incorporating elements like sharp turns, elevation changes, and off-road sections; for instance, Aspen's snowy paths challenge traction, while Rio de Janeiro's coastal tracks include beachside sand surfaces. Shortcuts and ramps are integrated throughout, allowing players to gain advantages by navigating hidden paths or executing jumps over obstacles. Environmental effects significantly influence racing dynamics, with dynamic weather such as , snowfall, and reducing vehicle grip and visibility on tarmac, , , or water-covered surfaces. Time-of-day variations, including nighttime conditions in tracks like , add atmospheric depth and alter lighting for heightened tension during high-speed pursuits. Hazards like dynamic traffic and environmental barriers further demand adaptive driving, as these elements can block routes or create collision risks. Vehicle performance varies across surfaces—for example, all-wheel-drive cars handle Aspen's snow better than rear-wheel-drive models—but core handling remains consistent with nitro boosts and drifts. Tracks are unlocked progressively through the career mode, where earning stars from event completions grants access to new locations and layouts, building difficulty with tougher AI and environmental challenges. Lap counts typically range from 1 to 5 depending on the selected route and event type, emphasizing quick adaptation to each environment's unique demands.

Reception

Critical Reviews

Asphalt 5 received generally positive reviews from critics upon its release, particularly for its mobile implementations. The iOS version holds a Metascore of 82 out of 100 on , based on six critic reviews, all of which were rated positive. Critics frequently praised the game's graphics and controls, highlighting them as standout features for mobile titles. awarded the iOS version an 8 out of 10, calling it a "great arcade racer" with top-notch graphics and music, and noting its accessible tilt controls that made it the best experience on at the time. TouchArcade echoed this sentiment, describing the visuals as stunning and the multiplayer mode as a fun addition that enhanced replayability through and options. However, some reviews pointed out shortcomings in the single-player experience. Slide to Play gave the iOS version a 3 out of 4 (75%), appreciating the content variety but criticizing the career mode for becoming repetitive after initial playthroughs. The Windows Phone port faced harsher scrutiny, with MSPoweruser rating it 2 out of 5 due to laggy performance, poor frame rates on older devices, and issues with resuming after interruptions. Platform variations were evident in reception, with the iOS version consistently receiving the highest praise for its polish and performance. The Android release was commended for its accessibility on a wider range of devices, earning an 8 out of 10 from , though some users noted significant battery drain during extended sessions. The Nintendo 3DS port, released as in 2011, received mixed to negative reviews, earning a Metascore of 43 out of 100 on based on 37 critic reviews, with criticisms focusing on outdated , repetitive , and technical issues compared to contemporary titles. Overall, the consensus positioned Asphalt 5 as a strong arcade racer that excelled in visuals and multiplayer but felt shorter and less innovative in career progression compared to its predecessors; it was nominated for 's 2009 Best iPhone Racing Game award.

Commercial Success

Asphalt 5 achieved substantial commercial success following its release, accumulating over 20 million downloads worldwide across multiple platforms. The game's iOS version, launched in November 2009, rapidly climbed the App Store charts and became one of Gameloft's top-performing titles, reaching the top 5 best-sellers multiple times and contributing to the publisher's milestone of 10 million paid downloads on the platform by January 2010. This performance positioned Asphalt 5 as a leading mobile racing game in the 2009-2010 period, helping to elevate the Asphalt series' profile amid growing smartphone adoption. On a broader scale, Asphalt 5 supported Gameloft's growth during this era, as the company reported consolidated sales of €122 million for , an 11% increase from the prior year, with mobile games comprising 94% of total revenues. The title's strong initial uptake on particularly fueled market hype and expanded the series' reach, though it lacked the ongoing in-app purchase model seen in later Asphalt entries.

References

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