It’s been a long time since there’s been a new game in Namco’s Ridge Racer series, and it’s anyone’s guess if the franchise will make a comeback. But in the interim, Ridge Racer 64–which was originally released in February 2000–has made a welcome return on Nintendo Switch. As seen in the announcement trailer below, Ridge Racer 64 still has that classic arcade-style charm a quarter century later.
Unfortunately, this game isn’t available as a standalone purchase. It was re-released earlier today exclusively for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers–which costs $50 per year for individuals and $80 for families in exchange for access to N64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance games as well as select DLC for modern titles.
Ridge Racer 64 includes a Quick Play option for anyone who just wants a fast run through the Revolution Novice course. Veteran drivers can try their hand on the Grand Prix and choose from nine different race tracks.
The game also includes Car Attack, Time Attack, Battle Mode, Stage Mode, and Team Mode. The trailer also confirms the return of the game’s multiplayer option for up to four drivers at once. This might be the best way to experience any Ridge Racer game, especially since Arcade1Up’s Ridge Racer cabinet is long out of production.
Nintendo Switch Online recently opened its vault and expanded its SNES lineup with Fatal Fury 2, Sutte Hakkun, and Super Ninja Boy. Late last year, Nintendo Switch Online also offered a handful of Sega’s older games, including ToeJam & Earl in Panic on Funkotron, Vectorman, and Mercs.
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