Summary
- Release Year: 2000
- Genres: Racing
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation
- Developers: Attention To Detail
- Publishers: Midway Games, Psygnosis, Take-Two Interactive
Rollcage Stage II: The Future of Arcade Racing
Released in 2000, Rollcage Stage II is an arcade-style racing game developed by Attention to Detail and published by Psygnosis for PlayStation and PC. As the sequel to the critically acclaimed Rollcage, Stage II takes the core gameplay of its predecessor and cranks it up to 11, delivering an even more exhilarating and over-the-top racing experience.
Gameplay
Rollcage Stage II is a futuristic racing game where players compete in high-speed races on tracks filled with jumps, loops, and obstacles. The game’s unique selling point is its gravity-defying cars, which feature massive wheels and can be flipped and continue to drive. This opens up a whole new dimension of racing strategy, as players can use the game’s physics to their advantage, performing flips and rolls to gain speed and avoid obstacles.
In addition to the basic racing, Rollcage Stage II also features a variety of weapons that can be picked up on the track and used against competing cars. These weapons range from simple missiles and rockets to more exotic weapons like EMPs and homing mines. Players can use these weapons to gain an edge over their opponents, but they must be careful not to get caught in the crossfire.
Tracks
Rollcage Stage II features a total of 24 tracks, each with its own unique layout and challenges. The tracks are set in a variety of locations, from futuristic cities to alien planets, and feature a variety of different obstacles, such as jumps, loops, and narrow tunnels.
Cars
There are a total of 12 cars to choose from in Rollcage Stage II, each with its own unique stats and handling characteristics. Players can also customize their cars with a variety of different paint jobs and decals.
Multiplayer
Rollcage Stage II features a variety of multiplayer modes, including deathmatch, team deathmatch, and capture the flag. Players can compete against each other on any of the game’s tracks, and they can also create their own custom matches with their own rules.
Graphics and Sound
Rollcage Stage II features colorful and detailed graphics that bring the game’s futuristic world to life. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of electronic and rock music that perfectly captures the game’s high-octane atmosphere.
Reception
Rollcage Stage II was a critical and commercial success, praised for its innovative gameplay, exciting tracks, and excellent graphics and sound. The game was nominated for several awards, including “Racing Game of the Year” at the 2000 Golden Joystick Awards.
Legacy
Rollcage Stage II is considered to be one of the best arcade-style racing games ever made. The game’s unique gameplay and gravity-defying cars have made it a cult classic among racing fans. Rollcage Stage II has also been cited as an influence on several other racing games, including the Burnout series and the Split/Second series.
Conclusion
Rollcage Stage II is an exhilarating and over-the-top arcade-style racing game that offers a unique and unforgettable racing experience. The game’s gravity-defying cars, exciting tracks, and variety of weapons make it a must-play for fans of racing games.
Review Score
8.5/10