90's as heck soundtrack and the real birthplace of modern console 3D racing and 3D arcade racing ports with maybe only Virtua Racing beating it to the punch.
This game has everything that a 90's arcade racer should have:
- great (dated) music
- blue skies
- bright presentation
- annoying AI
Even in this early entry, Namco's attention to detail in machine design and architecture on tracks shines through and these aspects become series staples.
The Ridge Racer series is an experience that modern arcade racing titles by inspired indie publishers struggle to replicate, and that big developers have outright abandoned. It desperately deserves to be preserved.