Screamer: Racing Meets Iconic Fighting Game Flair

This article explores an upcoming racing title that draws inspiration from a legendary fighting game series. The project merges racing simulation with character-driven narrative elements, creating a product that is both familiar and innovative.

Milestone, well known for its simulation racing titles like the Ride series and the arcade experience of Hot Wheels Unleashed, takes a distinctive turn with this new project. It provides an unusual flavor compared to the studio’s typical endeavors, promising fans an exciting divergence from their usual projects.

In a recent discussion, the game director Federico Cardini shared that the creative team found inspiration in a well-known fighting game franchise. Their approach was not to copy, but rather to reimagine the style, adapting the idea of teams with characters who each have personalized designs and histories. This vision stems largely from the passion of the creative director, who had long admired the detailed character designs and team dynamics of that franchise.

Cardini further explained that the game features groups of characters, each led by a primary figure accompanied by two associates. These teams have vehicles that differ in performance and handling; the leader’s car is engineered for high performance and can be challenging to control, while the support cars are more accessible. Each vehicle is crafted to mirror the character’s unique background and storyline. For example, one prominent team, known as the Green Reapers, is designed with a military flair and an unconventional history. The team’s cars, assembled in an unexpected manner after a noteworthy acquisition early in the narrative, stand as a testament to the game’s creative ambitions. Other teams include a popular Japanese idol group, a group representing corporate power, and a team of innovative scientists—all contributing to the game’s rich visual and thematic diversity.

The game is scheduled to debut in just over a month and will be playable on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S starting March 26. As the release date nears, more details about Screamer are anticipated, inviting both racing enthusiasts and fans of creative storytelling to explore this unique blend of genres.