Wipeout Fusion

"Fusion lives up to the legacy of Wipeout and delivers a top-notch racing experience."

Gamers sure had to wait a long time for this one to come out. I remember this one being touted as a possible US launch title for the PS2, but that target fell through completely. After seeing release in Europe first, it finally made its way to US shores in mid-2002. I, personally, have been a fan of the series since Wipeout 64 on the N64. I didn't have a PS at the time XL/2097 came out, and to this date I've never played it, even after I got a PS. However, I really enjoyed Wipeout 3, which (even though it received lukewarm reviews from the gaming media) was truly an experience to play.

Wipeout Fusion gameplay-wise is basically an evolved version of what we previously saw before in the Wipeout series. The gameplay is more akin to Wipeout 64's gameplay than Wipeout 3-the hyperthrust feature from WO 3, which often made that game amazingly easy at times, has been ditched, and course layouts are generally similar to WO 64's. This version debuts a considerable amount of new features to the courses, like wider areas, loops, and the ability to race on the ceilings of some areas. The real thing that makes WO Fusion great is its courses, as they have been superbly designed, and really display the trademark speed of Wipeout.

One of the most common complaints about the Wipeout series is that you spend too much time grinding against the walls, getting stopped for the slightest touch of the sides of the courses. I have never really had any problem keeping my aircraft on course, but with the inclusion of more spacious sections on the courses, this problem has been somewhat addressed.

Graphically, Wipeout Fusion pales in comparison to many other PS2 titles released around the same time as WO Fusion. The fact that it was in development for so long is probably to blame for this. The textures look somewhat basic, and there are some clipping and pop-up problems. The game moves at a solid, fast framerate although the ''Quake'' weapon induces slowdown at times. The courses have a much more organic look than WO 3's cold, ''futuristic-techno'' tracks and feature rocks, trees, water, etc. Even though this is a nice change of pace, I still prefer WO 3's super slick futuristic look, which I was absolutely enthralled with; I hope the next Wipeout returns to that look.

Sadly, Fusion's soundtrack doesn't hold a candle to DJ Sasha's WO 3 soundtrack. The songs just aren't as catchy and don't have the pulse-pounding rythym of most WO 3 songs. The announcer is a new female voice, and sounds pretty good. Other sound effects are typical video game fare. As for the game's controls...they're dead-on perfect.

All in all, Fusion is a game worth buying. I may sound a bit critical of it, but it's a Wipeout game- to me, that alone secures a rating of at least 8 for it, and it can only go up from there. There's enough material to keep you playing for months, and it puts up a great challenge. If this game had really good graphics, I can guarantee it would be a blockbuster hit. For Wipeout fans, this is a no-brainer purchase. For newbies to Wipeout, here's a great chance to join the party and see what you've been missing.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 08/28/02, Updated 09/21/04