Frustrated with Bandai Namco's silence on the beloved Ridge Racer franchise, a dedicated fan has taken matters into their own hands—and the result is nothing short of remarkable. But here's where it gets controversial: is this fan-made recreation a testament to passion, or a stark reminder of what Bandai Namco has left on the table?
Once the flagship series that heralded the arrival of new gaming consoles, Ridge Racer has been left in the dust by Bandai Namco in recent years. The last mainline installment, Ridge Racer Unbounded, hit the shelves way back in 2012, leaving fans yearning for a new entry or even an HD remaster of the arcade classic. Despite vague promises to explore licensing opportunities, the publisher has remained eerily silent—until now, thanks to the ingenuity of DG1Games.
Using Dreams on the PS4/PS5, DG1Games has meticulously recreated the PS1 version of Ridge Racer, dubbing it Ridge Racer Advanced. But this isn’t just a carbon copy; it’s a labor of love that expands on the original. And this is the part most people miss: the developer has added a unique feature allowing players to toggle between high-resolution graphics, a pixelated PS1-style mode, and a modern, glossy aesthetic. Every element is built from scratch, showcasing the power of Dreams and the dedication of the creator.
While the drifting mechanics might raise a few eyebrows, the overall execution is undeniably impressive. DG1Games plans to release the project “very soon,” offering fans a taste of nostalgia with a modern twist. Special thanks to Larry Bundy Jr. for bringing this to our attention!
But here’s the question that’s bound to spark debate: Should Bandai Namco take note and officially revive the franchise, or is this fan-made project enough to satisfy Ridge Racer enthusiasts? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Could this be the catalyst for a full-fledged comeback, or is Ridge Racer destined to remain a dream?
