Hoping to further capitalize on its myriad arcade classics, Sega has revealed plans for a downloadable remake of Daytona USA.
For you kids born during the Clinton administration, let me explain the appeal of Daytona USA. When the game debuted in 1993, it was simply stunning. The 3D graphics were gorgeous, and with everything moving at a steady 60fps, the aesthetics seemed like some truly next-level stuff.
Plus, this was still the classic Sega era, so the game itself is colorful, intuitive and, most crucially, entertaining. Oh, and the game has a soundtrack so catchy that it borders on virulent. Hit play on the embedded clip if you don’t believe me.
With all the affection Daytona USA has garnered over the years, it’s just good business for Sega to resurrect the game. Thus, Daytona USA will be appearing on the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Arcade on October 25 and 26, respectively. Both versions will sport a $10 price tag, and each features a handful of improvements.
Courtesy the official press release:
The re-release of Daytona USA features:
Fresh Oil and a New Coat of Paint: Experience the classic retro graphics of the original arcade hit in an enhanced,16:9 widescreen format
Let’s Go Away: Relive your glory days of racing to the sounds of the original Daytona USA soundtrack, also available in Karaoke Mode (admit it, you know you have been singing along anyway)
Pedal to the Metal: Drive like a pro with included support for the Logitech GT Driving Force steering wheel controller on PS3, and all Xbox 360-supported steering wheel controllers
Reach the Winner’s Circle: Challenge AI opponents in Arcade Mode, race the clock in Survival and Time Trial Modes, and trade paint with up to eight players in online multiplayer to place on the worldwide leaderboard
Of late I’ve been very impressed by Sega’s revived classics — on a related note, you should all buy the just-released XBLA Guardian Heroes remake, as it’s phenomenal — but this particular remake has me especially giddy. I mean, Karaoke Mode! This is the best idea Sega’s had since the lock-on Sonic & Knuckles cartridge.
