Future sound of racing
With its pumping soundtrack, slick graphics and superb blend of high octane racing and powerful weaponry, Wipeout XL is a true classic of the racing genre that still holds its own today. The game is the sequel to the original Wipeout and is set 100 years later with competitors now participating in a faster, deadlier version of the anti-gravity racing league. The formula changed little between the two games, with players still controlling ultra-fast hovercraft in a series of ever more challenging league races across a variety mind boggling courses. However, this time around, weapons were introduced, adding a new tactical element to racing, while the graphics also saw a major improvement. Courses were more innovative and exciting and new craft and teams were brought in. Wipeout is also notable for its futuristic soundtrack, which featured the music of The Prodigy, The Chemical Bros. and Underworld to create a seriously cool atmosphere. A key feature of any racing game is the controls, and in this respect Wipeout does not disappoint. They are highly responsive and allow great drivers to pull of some cunning moves, whipping around tight turns at top speed. Fast, furious and graphically stunning, this is future racing at its best.
