NeoSprint: Everything We Know

The Atari console was a pioneer in the gaming industry. In fact, most genres attribute their origins to the console. Take, for example, Sprint. This series laid the foundation for top-down multiplayer racing with its set of classical arcade games. Its fast-paced action and addictive gameplay captivated players. So, it is no surprise that Headless Chicken Games and Atari are reviving the franchise with a new and polished title, NeoSprint. The game brings back classic multiplayer arcade racing. This is one game that will hold your hand as you walk down memory lane. So before it launches, let's unpack all its features in NeoSprint—everything we know.

What is NeoSprint?

NeoSprint is an upcoming single-screen multiplayer arcade racer played from a 3D isometric perspective. The title is set to revive the classic Sprint series. The franchise debuted in the 1970s and was headlined by Sprint 2, the second mainline entry. Sprint 2 was a beloved title that became the second-highest-earning video game in 1978. The game debuted at the same time as Sprint 8. However, Sprint 2 focused on two-player racing, while the latter focused on eight-player racing.

The new title will be an eight-player racing game like Sprint 8, with a boatload of new features. Thanks to the assorted track builder, players can now build their own racetracks and also share their tracks with friends. 

Story

It's still unclear whether NeoSprint will feature a narrative. Considering the games that laid the foundation didn't have one, we might not have a narrative. It's not uncanny since most arcade games traditionally prioritize gameplay over narrative. However, NeoSprint will feature a storyline, which could be simple or abstract. Ideally, it will serve as a backdrop to the gameplay rather than racing the experience.

Gameplay

In a classic fashion, NeoSprint will feature arcade gameplay played from an isometric perspective. Unlike those before, which featured a top-down perspective, the isometric view creates a three-dimensional effect. This means you'll view the game world from a skewed angle.

Additionally, the eight-player racing action will unfold across four different terrains: winter, city, forest, and desert, adding variation to the gameplay. But that's not all. Players get to design insane tracks with twists, turns, and jumps. You can also spruce up your tracks by adding “a variety of scenery and decorations to make your track unique.” 

Moreover, the game lets you share your ingenious track creations with friends. Get to showcase your prowess in creativity or build an insane track and challenge your friends to compete. Ideally, you won't run short of “new and exhilarating content.”

Beyond this, players will access nine types of cars, ranging from muscle to sport. Each car boasts different speeds, handling, and acceleration. The good news is that you can always tune your car, customizing it to your liking. Pick any color you want, or settle for the Atari-themed decals. Essentially, as you are the master of the racetrack, so are you in your own car.

The game's campaign mode is progressive, where you race against “8 different rival racers in NeoSprint's campaign mode. Travel through multiple cups with increasingly difficult tracks. As you progress, unlock new decorations and car liveries.”

NeoSprint ideally aims to prove that retro graphics don't solely define classic arcade games. There's more to do and so much fun in every race. That being said, the title will also feature alternate game modes, such as Obstacle Course and Time Trials, after completing the Campaign Mode. 

Development

NeoSprint is a collaborative effort between Headless Chicken Games, its developer, and Atari, its publisher. Little is known about the developers, but they did have a hand in developing Nickelodeon All Star Brawl and Miraculous: Rise of the Sphinx. However, much can be said about Atari. 

Few names command as much reverence and nostalgia in the video game industry as Atari. Since its inception in the early 1970s, the studio has been a trailblazer, laying the groundwork for countless beloved franchises and genres. 

Atari's journey began in 1972 after the launch of Pong, a simple yet revolutionary arcade game that catapulted the company to fame and kick-started the video game revolution. The game's success paved the way for Atari to become a dominant force in the 1970s arcade scene. 

In the early 1980s, Atari transitioned from arcades to home consoles with the release of the Atari 2600, one of the first widely successful home gaming systems. The Atari 2600 brought arcade-quality gaming into living rooms across the globe and helped to popularize home video gaming as a mainstream form of entertainment. 

NeoSprint is a passionate creation by John Kauderer, one of Atari's studios' longest-serving art directors. Clearly, the company's influence on the gaming industry is as strong as ever. The game will build on the success of classics like Sprint and Super Sprint. From the early days of Pong to its upcoming offering, Atari continues to ensure that its legacy will endure for generations to come.

Trailer

Fortunately, the devs have released not one but two breathtaking trailers that offer a glimpse into the adrenaline-fueled excitement that awaits in NeoSprint. The first trailer showcases the different biomes and insane track styles. We also get a glimpse of the different cars and customizable paint job options. The second trailer gives an in-depth look into its gameplay, featuring the track builder. If you are an arcade fan, the two trailers will certainly whet your appetite.

Release Date, Platforms & Editions

NeoSprint will be launching sometime in the summer of 2024. The developers have yet to release a concrete date. We can, however, confirm that the game will exclusively launch on PC (through Steam), Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch. However, the game is currently available for early release, but it's only exclusive to the Atari VCS. 

Additionally, we don't have information on the editions to expect. So many details remain scarce at the moment. However, you can always follow the official social media handle here to keep track of new updates. Meanwhile, we'll watch out for new information and let you know as soon as they come up.

So, what's your take? Will you pick up a copy of NeoSprint when it drops? Let us know over on our socials here.