Genre: Racing / Driving
Developer: Rebellion Developments Ltd.
Publisher: Atari Corporation
Year: 1994
Platform: Atari Jaguar
Checkered Flag is a 3D Formula-style racing game developed by Rebellion Developments and released by Atari Corporation for the Jaguar in 1994. It offers players a selection of race modes including single races, practice sessions, and tournament play, all featuring a variety of tracks.
Players can customize vehicle handling to suit different environments, and the game includes multiple weather options. There are ten distinct tracks, each with its own theme; some feature sunny environments, while others are set in more extreme climates such as arctic snowfields.
The controls include a steering input curve that starts gently and becomes more sensitive as it progresses; precision steering via tapping is important for taking corners effectively. The sense of speed and track design varies, with elevated features like bridges and tunnels appearing in certain circuits.
Critical reception was mixed. Reviewers appreciated the ambition of delivering polygonal 3D racing on the Jaguar, particularly with track variety and customization options. However, many criticized the performance, citing low frame rates, choppy visuals, and the absence of a two-player mode among the game’s major shortcomings.
