Time Trials in Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars offer a thrilling test of Huang Lee's driving skills, challenging players to complete specific races against the clock. These missions are a great way to earn money and hone your racing abilities.
Initiating Time Trials
Time Trials are typically found scattered throughout Liberty City, often marked by a specific icon on your mini-map. Approach the icon and interact with it to start the race. You'll usually be given a choice of vehicles or assed a specific one for the trial.
The Objective
The goal of a Time Trial is straightforward: complete a desated race course faster than the target time. The courses are usually marked by a series of checkpoints that you must pass through in the correct order. Failing to hit a checkpoint or running out of time will result in failure.
Types of Time Trials
While the core concept remains the same, Time Trials can vary:
- Standard Races: Navigate a set course with checkpoints.
- Point-to-Point Races: Reach a specific destination as quickly as possible, often with fewer checkpoints but a longer distance.
- Vehicle-Specific Trials: Some trials might require you to use a particular vehicle, testing your mastery of its handling characteristics.
Strategies for Success
- Know the Course: The first attempt is often a reconnaissance run. Learn the track layout, turns, and potential shortcuts.
- Vehicle Choice: If you have a choice, opt for the fastest and most agile vehicle that suits the course. Motorcycles are excellent for tight, winding tracks, while sports cars are better for straighter, more open routes.
- Master the Handbrake: The handbrake is crucial for taking sharp corners without losing too much speed. Practice drifting around turns.
- Utilize Shortcuts: Many courses have hidden shortcuts, such as alleys, ramps, or off-road paths. Discovering and utilizing these can shave valuable seconds off your time.
- Traffic Management: Be prepared to navigate through civilian traffic. Use your horn or aggressive driving to clear a path when necessary, but avoid crashing, as it costs time.
- Boosts and Power-ups: Some Time Trials might feature temporary speed boosts or other power-ups. Learn their locations and use them strategically.
Rewards
Successfully completing a Time Trial will reward you with cash. The faster you beat the target time, the greater the payout. Repeatedly beating your own best times or achieving gold medals can lead to substantial earnings.
Progression and Unlocking
Completing Time Trials can also contribute to your overall game progression and unlock certain achievements or bonuses. They are an excellent way to practice your driving skills, which are essential for many other aspects of the game.