Summary
- Release Year: 1981
- Genres: Racing
- Platforms: Arcade, Legacy Mobile Device, Wii, Xbox 360
- Developers: Namco
- Publishers: Midway, Namco
New Rally-X (1981): A Revised and Refined Arcade Classic
Released in 1981 by Namco, New Rally-X is a maze and driving arcade game that builds upon the success of its predecessor, Rally-X (1980). While the core gameplay remains largely the same, New Rally-X introduces several enhancements that make it a worthwhile experience in its own right.
Gameplay
New Rally-X retains the basic premise of Rally-X: players control a car that must navigate through a maze filled with obstacles, collecting flags while avoiding enemy cars. The player’s car is equipped with a limited fuel supply, and the game ends if the fuel runs out.
One of the key differences between New Rally-X and its predecessor is the introduction of the “Lucky Flag” (with the letter “L”). Collecting this flag gives the player extra points for remaining fuel when collected, and the round will continue if there are still flags remaining. This change makes the game slightly easier than Rally-X, as players are less likely to lose due to running out of fuel.
The mazes in New Rally-X are mostly identical to those in Rally-X, with some minor changes. Some of the blocks from Rally-X have been changed into roads to reduce dead ends, and some of the flag (and rock) locations have been altered.
Graphics and Sound
New Rally-X features slightly enhanced graphics compared to its predecessor. The colors are more vibrant, and the sprites are more detailed. The game also has a new soundtrack that is more upbeat and energetic than the original Rally-X soundtrack.
Reception
New Rally-X was a commercial success in Japan, where it was manufactured in greater numbers and was more popular than its predecessor. It was also well-received by critics, who praised its improved graphics, easier gameplay, and new bonuses.
Legacy
New Rally-X is considered to be one of the classic arcade games of the early 1980s. It is still enjoyed by retro gaming enthusiasts today, and it has been ported to a variety of platforms, including the Nintendo Switch and the PlayStation 4.
Conclusion
New Rally-X is a revised and refined version of Rally-X that improves upon the original in several ways. With its enhanced graphics, easier gameplay, and new bonuses, New Rally-X is a must-play for fans of maze and driving games.
Additional Details
- Developer: Namco
- Publisher: Namco
- Release Date: 1981
- Platform: Arcade
- Genre: Maze and driving
- Number of Players: 1-2
- Control Method: Joystick and buttons
Tips
- Learn the layout of the mazes to avoid getting lost.
- Collect the Lucky Flag (with the letter “L”) to get extra points and continue the round if there are still flags remaining.
- Use the boost button to speed up your car, but be careful not to run out of fuel.
- Avoid the enemy cars, or you will lose a life.
Trivia
- New Rally-X was originally released in Japan as “New Rally-X ’81”.
- The game was ported to the Atari 2600, Commodore 64, and ZX Spectrum home computers.
- New Rally-X is included in the Namco Museum compilation series.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
