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Review of R4: Ridge Racer Type 4 on PlayStation

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Dec 1998
Cover image of R4: Ridge Racer Type 4 on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 9.0
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 03 Dec 1998
Genre: Racing
Developer: Namco
Publisher: Namco

Introduction

Buckle up, folks-'R4: Ridge Racer Type 4' takes you on a twisted ride through asphalt jungles, several sponsorships, and a sprinkle of drama that'll have you cheering for pixels like they're your favorite underdogs. Developed by the geniuses at Namco, this title is a joyful burst of color and speed, wrapped up in a package that screams '90s nostalgia. Who knew racing could have more plot twists than a daytime soap opera about drag racing? Well, this game might just be the four-wheeled drama you didn't know you needed in your life.

Gameplay

'R4' introduces players to a world that doesn't just ask for fast fingers-it wants engagement and investment in four distinct racing teams. Choices matter, kids! Join teams like the Pac Racing Club or Dig Racing Team, each dripping with their unique flair and story arcs. Did you know the 'Pac Racing Club' isn't just named after an iconic video game character? They've got a manager whose dialogue will have you feeling like your imaginary friend is finally talking back! Forget Ghosts in Pac-Man-this game features actual managerial drama! As you progress through the Grand Prix, you not only share rubber on the pavement-but also bond through sponsorship decisions that can affect your driving experience. Will you opt for the power boost or the grip? Decisions, decisions. The gameplay mechanics are tastefully arcade-like, focusing heavily on powersliding. Pick your poison: drift or grip-style handling to power through those tight curves and make you feel like a race god. Vehicles are unlocked through qualification, and trust me, unlocking all 321 cars is no less than a full-time job! If you thought the only thing trickier than driving was dealing with your parents, think again. Mastering 'R4' is an art form, fueled by a desire for speed and a smidge of chaos.

Graphics

Let's talk visuals! The game aces the test of time with a graphical overhaul that's brighter than your future. Each race whisks you through colorful, exaggerated landscapes that pop like bad TV graphics-but in the best way possible! The curves glisten under the sun, the lighting effects sparkle, and did I mention the cars are downright sexy? The intro scene featuring Reiko Nagase is animated so well, you'd almost expect her to jump out of the screen and drag you onto the track. What's more, this was one of the first games to implement Gouraud shading effectively, proving that Namco definitely had the right idea. You might even forget you're playing on a console released in the '90s-until you feel that satisfying 'PS1' controller rumble in your palm, that is.

Conclusion

'R4: Ridge Racer Type 4' isn't just an arcade racer; it's a tribute to everyone who daydreamed about fast cars while stuck in traffic. With its innovative team system, rich visuals, and a dynamic soundtrack that captures the bass-in-your-chest vibe we all want while racing, this game is deserving of every accolade it has received. It's like racing in a concert! You get together with friends, hit the tracks, find your friendships tested through split-screen rivalries, and unleash your inner speed demon. So, revive that dusty old PlayStation, grab your controller, and buckle up for a nostalgic joyride like no other. Who knows? You might uncover the next big racing champion-namely you, right after you learn to drift without crashing into a checkpoint.

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