"I swear I didn't know that button fired a lethal rocket!"
Sony Europe has today confirmed that the sequel to WipEout Pure for the PlayStation Portable will be zipping onto the handheld this September. The original, released to support the PSP from day one, was one of the console's standout titles at that time, so we're hoping that WipEout Pulse can mimic that feat.
Being created by Sony Europe's Liverpudlian development house, the new title will feature two dozen super-speedy new circuits, seven game modes, eight racing teams, and a comprehensive training mode to help newcomers to the series find their feet... or if you like, anti-gravity hover ship. In addition, the game promises to deliver ad hoc multiplayer between consoles.
As with its prequel, Pulse will include online support for players to download additional tracks, ships, and music. In relation to the latter, the series has always had steadfast support from some of the dance industry's biggest artists including Aphex Twin and Röyksopp. The upcoming futuristic racer will be no different, with Loco Dice and Stanton Warriors already confirmed to be on board. Of course, if those names don't float your boat, then you can use any of the MP3s stored on your PSP's Memory Stick to flesh out the experience.
One other new feature confirmed for Pulse is the Mag Strip, something that locks your ship to the track's surface, allowing for crazier track design and the inclusion of elements such as loop-the-loops and vertical sections. Oh, and did we mention that the few screenshots released so far show the environments looking delightfully detailed and crisp?
Yep, they do.