Fatal Inertia (2007)

by Christopher April 4, 2024

written by Christopher April 4, 2024 6 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2007
Genres: Racing
Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Developers: Koei Canada
Publishers: Koei

Fatal Inertia: A Futuristic Racing Gem

Released in 2007 for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, Fatal Inertia is a futuristic hovercar racing game that quickly gained a cult following. Developed by Koei, the game is set in a mid-22nd century Earth where extreme sports have become the primary form of entertainment. Among these sports, Fatal Inertia stands as the most popular, with races taking place far from cities due to the high level of danger.

Gameplay

Fatal Inertia is a fast-paced and intense racing game that requires both skill and strategy to master. Players race hovercars that can reach speeds of up to 500 miles per hour, and must navigate through challenging tracks filled with obstacles and hazards. The game features a variety of different race modes, including single races, tournaments, and time trials.

One of the unique features of Fatal Inertia is its damage system. Hovercars can sustain damage from collisions and other hazards, which can affect their performance. Players must carefully manage their car’s health in order to stay competitive.

Tracks

Fatal Inertia features six different racing environments, each with its own unique set of tracks. These environments include:

Neon City: A futuristic cityscape with bright lights and towering skyscrapers.
Industrial Zone: A sprawling industrial complex with factories and warehouses.
Canyon Run: A winding road through a narrow canyon.
Mountain Pass: A treacherous mountain road with steep cliffs and sharp turns.
Arctic Zone: A frozen wasteland with icy roads and snow-covered mountains.
Jungle: A lush jungle with dense vegetation and hidden paths.

Each environment features a variety of different tracks, with a total of 51 tracks in the game. The tracks are all well-designed and offer a variety of challenges for players.

Hovercars

There are a total of 12 different hovercars in Fatal Inertia, each with its own unique stats and handling characteristics. Players can choose from a variety of different hovercars, including:

Speed: Hovercars that prioritize speed over handling.
Acceleration: Hovercars that can accelerate quickly out of corners.
Handling: Hovercars that are easy to control and maneuver.
Durability: Hovercars that can withstand more damage before being destroyed.

Players can also customize their hovercars with a variety of different paint jobs and decals.

Graphics and Sound

Fatal Inertia features stunning graphics for its time. The game’s environments are detailed and immersive, and the hovercars are beautifully rendered. The game’s sound design is also top-notch, with realistic sound effects and a pulse-pounding soundtrack.

Reception

Fatal Inertia received generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its fast-paced and intense gameplay, its well-designed tracks, and its stunning graphics. However, the game was also criticized for its lack of online multiplayer and its repetitive gameplay.

Despite its flaws, Fatal Inertia remains a solid racing game that is well worth playing. If you’re a fan of futuristic racing games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Fatal Inertia.

Legacy

Fatal Inertia was a commercial failure, but it has since gained a cult following. The game’s unique gameplay and stunning graphics have made it a favorite among fans of futuristic racing games. In 2018, a spiritual successor to Fatal Inertia, called Hover, was released for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.

Conclusion

Fatal Inertia is a fast-paced and intense futuristic racing game that offers a unique and challenging experience. With its stunning graphics, well-designed tracks, and customizable hovercars, Fatal Inertia is a must-play for any fan of racing games.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.