Summary
- Release Year: 1992
- Genres: Racing
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST/STE, DOS
- Developers: Magnetic Fields
- Publishers: Gremlin Graphics
Lotus III: The Ultimate Challenge (1992)
Lotus III: The Ultimate Challenge is a racing simulation video game developed and published by Gremlin Graphics Software for the Amiga, Atari ST, and MS-DOS in 1992. It is the third game in the Lotus series of racing games, and was preceded by Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge (1990) and Lotus Turbo Challenge 2 (1991).
Lotus III combines the gameplay elements of its predecessors, allowing players to choose between racing opponents in the Lotus Turbo Challenge mode or competing against the clock in the arcade-like Lotus 2 mode. The two-player option is retained from Lotus Turbo Challenge 2, and the music selection feature returns, with a soundtrack composed by Patrick Phelan.
One of the most significant additions to Lotus III is the inclusion of a third car, the Lotus M200. This concept car was designed by Lotus in 1990, and features a number of advanced aerodynamic features. Players can choose to race with the M200, the Lotus Esprit Turbo SE, or the Lotus Turbo Esprit from Lotus Turbo Challenge 2.
Lotus III also features a number of new tracks, including the Brands Hatch circuit in Kent, England, and the Monza circuit in Italy. The game’s graphics have also been updated, with more detailed scenery and cars.
Gameplay
Lotus III’s gameplay is similar to that of its predecessors. Players control a Formula One car and must race against opponents or the clock. The game features a variety of tracks, each with its own unique challenges. Players must use their driving skills to navigate the tracks and avoid crashing.
Lotus III introduces a number of new features to the series, including the ability to choose between three different cars, each with its own unique handling characteristics. The game also features a new damage model, which can affect the performance of the player’s car if they crash.
Reception
Lotus III was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its realistic graphics, challenging gameplay, and excellent music. Lotus III was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.
Lotus III is considered to be one of the best racing games of all time. The game is still played by many fans today, and it remains a popular choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Legacy
Lotus III has had a lasting impact on the racing game genre. The game’s realistic graphics and challenging gameplay set a new standard for racing games. Lotus III also helped to popularize the use of licensed cars and tracks in racing games.
The Lotus series of racing games continues to be popular today. The latest game in the series, Lotus Evora GT4 Concept, was released in 2019.
Conclusion
Lotus III: The Ultimate Challenge is a classic racing game that combines realistic graphics, challenging gameplay, and excellent music. The game is still played by many fans today, and it remains a popular choice for retro gaming enthusiasts. Lotus III is a must-play for fans of racing games and a great example of the genre at its best.
Additional Information
- Lotus III was the first game in the series to be released on the MS-DOS platform.
- The game’s soundtrack was composed by Patrick Phelan, who also composed the soundtracks for Lotus Turbo Challenge 2 and Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge.
- Lotus III was followed by Lotus IV: The Ultimate Challenge 2 in 1993.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
