Summary
- Release Year: 1998
- Genres: Racing
- Platforms: Nintendo 64
- Developers: Psygnosis
- Publishers: Gradiente, Midway Games
WipEout 64: The Pinnacle of Futuristic Hovercraft Racing
Released in 1998 by Psygnosis, WipEout 64 is a futuristic racing game that took the world by storm. A follow-up to the critically acclaimed WipEout XL, WipEout 64 retained the core gameplay elements of its predecessor while introducing several exciting new features and enhancements.
Gameplay: A High-Speed Adrenaline Rush
WipEout 64 puts players in the driver’s seat of high-speed hovercrafts known as AG-Systems, which race on anti-gravity tracks suspended high above the ground. The game features a variety of tracks set in futuristic environments, from neon-lit urban landscapes to treacherous mountain passes.
The gameplay is fast-paced and exhilarating, with players navigating through challenging tracks at breakneck speeds. Hovercrafts can be equipped with a range of weapons, including rockets, mines, and lasers, which can be used to damage opponents and gain an edge in the race.
New Features and Enhancements
WipEout 64 introduced several new features that set it apart from its predecessors. One of the most significant additions was the split-screen multiplayer mode, allowing up to four players to compete against each other on the same screen. This mode added a whole new level of excitement and competition to the game.
Another new feature was the inclusion of Weapon & Super Combo Challenges. These challenges tasked players with completing specific objectives, such as destroying a certain number of opponents or performing a certain number of stunts. Completing these challenges rewarded players with new weapons and upgrades for their hovercrafts.
Diverse Hovercrafts and Teams
WipEout 64 features a diverse roster of hovercrafts, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Players can choose from a variety of teams, each with its own distinct hovercraft designs and color schemes. These teams include:
- Feisar: Known for their speed and agility
- AG-Systems: Balanced all-rounders
- Qirex: Durable and powerful
- Auricom: Fast and maneuverable
- Pir-hana: Aggressive and heavily armed
Stunning Visuals and Audio
WipEout 64 was a technical marvel for its time, showcasing stunning visuals and an immersive audio experience. The game’s tracks are incredibly detailed, with vibrant colors and futuristic architecture. The hovercrafts are also beautifully designed, with sleek lines and glowing neon lights.
The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of electronic music and ambient soundscapes. The music perfectly complements the high-speed racing action, creating an adrenaline-pumping atmosphere.
Legacy and Impact
WipEout 64 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. It is considered by many to be one of the greatest racing games ever made and is still enjoyed by gamers today.
The game’s success spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including WipEout 2097, WipEout Fusion, and WipEout Pure. The series has remained popular over the years, with the latest installment, WipEout Omega Collection, being released in 2017.
Conclusion
WipEout 64 is a timeless classic that set the benchmark for futuristic racing games. With its exhilarating gameplay, stunning visuals, and innovative features, it is a game that continues to captivate and amaze gamers to this day. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, WipEout 64 is an essential experience for any racing enthusiast.
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
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