Summary
- Release Year: 2001
- Genres: Racing
- Platforms: Arcade
- Developers: Genki
- Publishers: Namco Limited
Wangan Midnight (2001): The Ultimate Tokyo Expressway Racing Experience
Introduction
Wangan Midnight is a thrilling arcade racing game released in 2001 that takes players on a high-speed adventure through the streets of Tokyo. Based on the popular manga series of the same name, Wangan Midnight captures the essence of illegal street racing on the首都高速道路(Shuto Expressway), known as the “Wangan.”
Gameplay
Wangan Midnight features a unique cabinet design that consists of two racing units with a chair and steering wheel for each player. This allows for intense head-to-head battles against friends or computer-controlled opponents.
The game world is a meticulously recreated version of the Wangan, divided into eight tracks that span the length of Tokyo. Players can freely roam the expressway, with traffic density shifting according to the time of day. When an opponent is encountered, the game enters a battle mode and the cars start to race each other.
Each car has a life gauge, shown as an SP meter, that is drained for the trailing car. The race is over when time runs out or when one of the cars loses all SP.
Story Mode
The Story mode adapts parts of the Wangan Midnight manga, as the player’s character seeks out and defeats increasingly challenging opponents. The story is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences, and it provides a sense of progression and purpose to the gameplay.
Other Game Modes
In addition to the Story mode, Wangan Midnight also features a Time Attack mode and a Versus mode played against another player locally.
Time Attack mode challenges players to complete a lap of a track as quickly as possible. The player’s time is recorded and compared to other players online.
Versus mode allows two players to compete against each other on any of the game’s tracks. Players can choose to race with equal cars or select different cars with varying performance levels.
Cars
Wangan Midnight features a wide range of licensed cars from manufacturers such as Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Subaru. Each car has its own unique performance characteristics, and players can choose the car that best suits their driving style.
Graphics and Sound
Wangan Midnight’s graphics are impressive for an arcade game released in 2001. The cars are detailed and the tracks are accurately recreated. The game also features a dynamic day/night cycle and weather effects.
The sound design is equally impressive, with realistic engine sounds and tire squeals. The game’s soundtrack features a mix of electronic and rock music that perfectly complements the high-speed racing action.
Legacy
Wangan Midnight was a critical and commercial success, and it spawned several sequels and spin-offs. The game is still popular today, and it is considered to be one of the best arcade racing games ever made.
Conclusion
Wangan Midnight (2001) is a thrilling and immersive arcade racing game that captures the essence of illegal street racing on the Wangan. With its unique cabinet design, detailed graphics, challenging gameplay, and wide range of cars, Wangan Midnight is a must-play for racing enthusiasts and fans of the Wangan Midnight manga series.
Review Score
8/10
