Experience Pure WipEout on the PSP

A more detailed new look at the visually striking new WipEout game for PlayStation Portable.

When the PlayStation launched in Europe in 1995, one game ensured that the console emitted an undeniable cool vibe: WipEout.

WipEout Pure - looking sensational

Now, nearly a decade later, Sony is readying itself to enter another videogame arena and the anti-gravity racing franchise is set to be there again. The PSP, with its slick appearance, will have no problem looking cool, but WipEout Pure's role is no less important.

Sony has created an all-new experience for WipEout Pure, which will feature new tracks, new ships and weapons and new music designed exclusively for the game.

But most exciting are the options opened up by the enhanced features of the PSP. Up to eight people can play multiplayer via the PSP's WiFi connection. This will also be used for downloading tracks and ships and transferring record times between PSPs.

And yet, despite all these new features, WipEout Pure marks a return to the series' roots, as explained by lead designer Colin Berry:

"We have abandoned the dynamics system from WipEout Fusion, the ships are no longer 'locked' to the track, they are free to bounce and leave the track when you move fast over the undulating surface."

"It is a throw back to the feel of the earlier games - that was one of the earliest decisions made and the game feels like WipEout because of it - hence the name WipEout Pure!"

The weapons system has received an overhaul too. Weapons are still picked up off the floor, but instead of using them to attack, players can also absorb weapons to replenish energy.

This adds another strategic element to gameplay, which will be even more important now that multiplayer is one of the game's main components.

WipEout Pure is set for release in spring 2005, during the European launch window of the PSP.

Alex Wollenschlaeger
Editor, Kikizo Games