One of the standout moments from the recent PAX conventions I’ve enjoyed attending was getting a glimpse of Atari's latest offerings. This year, I was particularly impressed by NeoSprint, a modern take on the classic Atari game Sprint. The game's isometric gameplay, vibrant colors, and sleek car designs left me eagerly awaiting its release.
NeoSprint, while drawing its name from its classic ancestor, shifts its gameplay closer to titles like RC Pro AM or Super Off Road. It supports up to eight players simultaneously, and although my experience at PAX was limited to competing against just a few others, it was immediately apparent how engaging and entertaining it could be with a full roster of eight human players.
One standout feature for me was the art in the game. The artwork is influenced by a cell-shaded style, which adds a unique and visually appealing element to the overall design. The cars in the game were particularly striking, with nine different types available, each offering their own set of abilities tailored to different racing styles. What really caught my eye were the customizable paint jobs on the cars, complete with Atari-themed decals that added a nostalgic touch to the overall experience.
The gameplay is intuitive and incorporates two distinct features that showcase contemporary design within this revamped classic: drafting and drifting. Although the game is accessible and easy to grasp, mastering the game is a significant challenge. I believe that, with additional time spent playing, I could have surpassed the third-place finish I achieved at PAX. This is a game where finesse is king, indicating that skillful play is a key component to success.
Although I haven't had the chance to try it out myself, NeoSprint offers a campaign mode and a track editor, both of which promise to enhance the overall gaming experience. I look forward to delving deeper into NeoSprint, which is currently only available in Early Access on the Atari VCS.