Ridge Racer Returns: What You Need to Know About the Arcade Archives 2 Re-Release
Hamster Corporation has officially announced the price and formats for the much-anticipated re-release of Ridge Racer, one of the most iconic arcade racing games from the 1990s. After years of nostalgia-driven demand, gamers can look forward to this classic making a comeback through the new Arcade Archives 2 series, which marks an exciting addition to Hamster’s ongoing commitment to reviving retro arcade games.
A New Chapter for Arcade Classics
Hamster has been in the business of releasing retro arcade titles for over a decade under its successful Arcade Archives series. With the launch of the Arcade Archives 2, the company aims to modernize these classics for new generations of gamers. The first game in this series, Ridge Racer, is set to launch on June 5, coinciding with the release of the highly anticipated Switch 2.
In addition to the Switch 2, Ridge Racer will also be available on the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles. This means that gamers across various platforms will have access to this famed racing title. Notably, the original Arcade Archives series will release Ridge Racer on PS4 and Switch on the same date, ensuring that no one misses out.
Affordable Pricing Structure
When it comes to pricing, Hamster has kept it reasonable. The Arcade Archives version of Ridge Racer on Switch and PS4 is priced at $14.99, while the Arcade Archives 2 version on the newer consoles will cost $16.99. For those who have already purchased the PS4 or Switch version, there’s an upgrade option to the more advanced Switch 2 or PS5 versions for just $2.99. This flexible pricing strategy aims to reward loyal fans and newcomers alike.
Enhanced Features to Elevate Gameplay
Each title in the Arcade Archives series is crafted with care, featuring modes that appeal to a range of play styles. The classic Ridge Racer will include Original Mode, High Score Mode (where players keep racing until they run out of lives), and Caravan Mode (aiming for the highest score within a limited time).
New to the Arcade Archives 2 series is Time Attack Mode, where players race against the clock to defeat the final boss. While Ridge Racer won’t feature Network Mode since it’s a solo experience, it will still come equipped with multiple save slots, a rewind feature for those tricky moments, and VRR support, which promises a more authentic arcade experience that pays homage to the original.
A Shift in the Arcade Landscape
Ridge Racer’s polygonal graphics mark a significant departure from Hamster’s usual sprite-based titles. This change not only broadens Hamster’s portfolio but also reflects the growth of the retro gaming market, as more players seek to relive the thrill of arcade classics in modern formats.
To date, Hamster has seen success with over 362 games released in the Arcade Archives series, alongside an additional 108 titles in the separate ACA Neo Geo series. The introduction of Ridge Racer, particularly in the innovative Arcade Archives 2 format, signals a promising new direction for the company.
The excitement surrounding Ridge Racer’s re-release is palpable. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, the upcoming launch offers an opportunity to dive back into a racing classic on the latest gaming systems. Join the ranks of players eager to experience the finesse and thrill of racing in Ridge Racer, and get ready for June 5, when nostalgia meets modern gaming! To stay updated on the latest in gaming news, don’t forget to check our tags for Hamster Corporation, Ridge Racer, and Arcade Archives.