Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Arcade, Racing, Simulator
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Arcade, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, MSX, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Taito
- Publishers: Taito, Virgin Mastertronic
Continental Circus: A Pioneering 3D Racing Simulation
Released in 1987 by Taito, Continental Circus is a groundbreaking racing simulation arcade game that pushed the boundaries of gaming technology at the time. It was the first racing game to feature true 3D graphics, and it also introduced a number of other innovative features, such as shutter-type 3D glasses and a sit-down cabinet.
Gameplay
Continental Circus is a Formula One racing game in which players compete against seven other AI-controlled cars on a variety of tracks. The game features a variety of different camera angles, including a first-person perspective and a third-person chase camera. Players can also choose from a variety of different cars, each with its own unique handling characteristics.
The gameplay is fast-paced and challenging, and the AI opponents are very aggressive. Players must use all of their skills to stay on the track and avoid crashing. The game also features a number of different weather conditions, which can affect the handling of the cars.
Graphics
Continental Circus was one of the first racing games to feature true 3D graphics. The game’s graphics are simple by today’s standards, but they were groundbreaking at the time. The use of shutter-type 3D glasses gave the game a sense of depth and immersion that was unlike anything else available at the time.
Sound
The sound in Continental Circus is also very good. The game’s soundtrack is catchy and upbeat, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive. The use of a sit-down cabinet also helped to create a more immersive experience for players.
Reception
Continental Circus was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its groundbreaking graphics, innovative gameplay, and realistic sound. It was also a popular choice for arcade operators, as it was one of the first games to offer a true 3D racing experience.
The home conversions of Continental Circus were also well-received, although they lacked the full-on 3D and special glasses of the arcade version. The home versions of the game still retained the essential gameplay structure and were praised for their challenging gameplay and realistic graphics.
Legacy
Continental Circus is considered to be one of the most important racing games of all time. It was one of the first games to feature true 3D graphics, and it also introduced a number of other innovative features. The game’s success helped to pave the way for future 3D racing games, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers today.
Conclusion
Continental Circus is a groundbreaking racing simulation game that pushed the boundaries of gaming technology at the time. The game’s innovative gameplay, realistic graphics, and immersive sound made it a critical and commercial success. Continental Circus is considered to be one of the most important racing games of all time, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers today.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
