Summary
- Release Year: 1995
- Genres: Racing
- Platforms: Sega Saturn
- Developers: Nextech
- Publishers: Sega Enterprises, Ltd., Sega of America
Cyber Speedway: A Futuristic Racing Gem from the Sega Saturn Era
Released in 1995 for the Sega Saturn, Cyber Speedway (known as Gran Chaser in Japan) is a futuristic racing game that has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. Developed by NexTech and published by Sega, the game is a spiritual successor to the 1993 computer game CyberRace, sharing similar themes and vehicle designs by renowned futurist Syd Mead.
Gameplay
Cyber Speedway is an arcade-style racing game that puts players behind the wheel of high-performance vehicles and challenges them to compete in a variety of races on futuristic tracks. The game features three main modes:
- Single Race: Race against AI opponents on a single track.
- Tournament: Compete in a series of races to earn points and unlock new tracks and vehicles.
- Time Trial: Race against the clock to set the fastest lap time on a given track.
The game’s tracks are set in a variety of futuristic environments, including neon-lit cities, sprawling deserts, and icy wastelands. Each track is filled with obstacles and hazards that players must navigate to stay ahead of the competition.
Cyber Speedway’s vehicles are also futuristic in design, with sleek lines and powerful engines. Players can choose from a variety of vehicles, each with its own unique handling and performance characteristics.
Features
Cyber Speedway offers a number of features that set it apart from other racing games of its era:
- Syd Mead Vehicle Designs: The game’s vehicles were designed by Syd Mead, a renowned futurist and concept artist who has worked on films such as Blade Runner and Tron. Mead’s designs give the game’s vehicles a unique and iconic look.
- Futuristic Tracks: The game’s tracks are set in a variety of futuristic environments, including neon-lit cities, sprawling deserts, and icy wastelands. Each track is filled with obstacles and hazards that players must navigate to stay ahead of the competition.
- Variety of Vehicles: Players can choose from a variety of vehicles, each with its own unique handling and performance characteristics.
- Arcade-Style Gameplay: Cyber Speedway is an arcade-style racing game that emphasizes fast-paced action and over-the-top stunts.
Critical Reception
Cyber Speedway received generally positive reviews from critics upon release. The game was praised for its futuristic visuals, innovative track designs, and challenging gameplay. However, some critics found the game’s controls to be somewhat difficult to master.
Legacy
Cyber Speedway has become a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. The game’s unique visuals, innovative track designs, and challenging gameplay have made it a favorite among fans of futuristic racing games.
Conclusion
Cyber Speedway is a futuristic racing gem from the Sega Saturn era. With its Syd Mead vehicle designs, innovative track designs, and challenging gameplay, the game is a must-play for fans of retro racing games.
Review Score
7.5/10
