These days, you just don’t see that many arcade racers from mainstream publishers, do you? I mean, Crazy Taxi’s reboot is coming from Sega, and there are other minor release as well. But gone are the days when we could depend on a new Daytona USA around the corner. Or so we thought.
Indie publishers are still putting effort into some good ones. That includes Rozz Games, who recently released the Virtua Racing-inspired SPGP Super Polygon Grand Prix. Featuring 48 tracks and 20 cars to choose from, there’s no shortage of breakneck racing fun here.
There are still some rough edges to work out there (the game is still in Early Access). However, thus far, it’s created a fabulous aura that reminds us the great racing games of the 90s. If the lively gameplay doesn’t catch you, more than likely the 90s presentation will. Talk about your throwbacks!
SGPG: Super Polygon Grand Prix Zips Right Along
First, let’s get into the visuals. Rozz Games has done a commendable job recreating the style of Virtua Racingfor SPGP.
The polygonal design is truly out of this world, even if some of the in-game backgrounds do slightly glitch now and then. It’s not that bad, however, and the frame rate continues to stay steady throughout. Not to mention the car models are impressive, and the variety is impeccable. There’s also a bit of joy in the slight car collisions within the game. We believe we even wrecked someone at one point. (Ulp!)
As for the music, it’s nostalgic as well. The tunes sound like they’re lifted straight from the Sega era. What’s more, the revving engine noises also have an old-school aura about them, and the announcer is cool.
There are slight problems, such as the freezing options menu and those aforementioned glitches. But those are meager hiccups compared to the overall experience. Old-school racing fans will get their money’s worth here. And it works on Steam Deck, too!
So How’s It Play?
As for gameplay, SPGP: Super Polygon Grand Prix delivers. It doesn’t overcomplicate on the controls, but doesn’t make them feel slippery, either. It’s got smooth handling throughout, even on the tighter turns. A little balance between braking and acceleration makes all the difference.
The game also offers a decent bit of challenge. Though it’s easy to pass most of the cars in the main modes, there are those few that put up a fight. Particularly in the top five. However, if you stick with it, you’ll get the skills needed to finally wipe them out.
So far, the game only has two main modes to choose from, both single player related. Multiplayer is coming, but Rozz Games notes it’s a work in progress. We’ll keep you informed once it’s added. But we have a feeling it could be a big hit – especially if it goes online.
Virtua Joy
While some may not lean on the idea of buying Early Access games, SPGP: Super Polygon Grand Prix makes a satisfactory argument. There’s a lot of value for the buck here, especially for retro racing fans. It feels great and looks marvelous, and has the audio to match. There are also a lot of tracks to race through, and more will be added to the game soon.
Plus it’s a mere $15, which isn’t bad at all for a trip back in racing time. So, yeah, if you’re a fan of this sort of game, indulge. Who knows? With its popularity, we could very well see more of them.
Thanks to Rozz Games for the preview code. You guys rock! You can get the game on Steam here.
