Titles like Radial-G: Proteus demonstrate how really fast racing videogames can work in virtual reality (VR) when built correctly. Today, developer Caged Element Inc. and publisher Wired Productions have announced that they’re bringing their popular PC title GRIP: Combat Racing into the VR sphere today.
Designed as a hardcore combat racer inspired by the likes of Rollcage, Wipeout and Motorstorm, GRIP: Combat Racing hit Steam back in 2018. Started as a passion project between a dedicated fan and one of the original Rollcage developers, they combined forces to reignite the thrill of high octane combat racing. Now after months of development GRIP: Combat Racing VR has arrived offering SteamVR players gravity-defying wheeled or airborne vehicles to race with. These are all armed to the teeth with an assortment of weapons to hinder opponents, from missiles to rail guns, as well as powerups like shields and turbos.
Offering a wide variety of tracks (29 in total) across various hostile-looking planets – and into deep space – these will have players scaling walls and ceilings whilst being able to perform tricks and stunts on these challenging, twisting tracks. GRIP: Combat Racing VR features both single-player and online multiplayer modes with team-based racing as well as deathmatch arena modes. Players can also customize their vehicles by unlocking paint jobs, decals, tires and rims. Additionally, there’s also the option to build a personalised tournament, allowing racers to line the grid with up to 10 players and compete online with full matchmaking and lobby support.
Wondering how well GRIP: Combat Racing translates into VR? Check out the first gameplay video below ahead of VRFocus’ upcoming review. Videogames like DiRT Rally 2 have successfully made the transition over but that’s a completely different racing style to GRIP: Combat Racing which features far more dynamic, rollercoaster environments.
Virtual reality support is free for all current GRIP: Combat Racing owners today, compatible with all the normal SteamVR headsets; Oculus Rift, HTC Vive and Valve Index. For those that don’t own the videogame, it retails for £24.99 GBP over on Steam. As further details for GRIP: Combat Racing VR are released, VRFocus will keep you updated.