Genre: Racing
Developer: Bizarre Creations
Publisher: Sega
Year: 2000
Platform: Sega Dreamcast
Metropolis Street Racer (MSR) is an arcade-style racing game set across three meticulously detailed cities: London, Tokyo, and San Francisco. The game features over 250 unique circuits and a wide selection of licensed vehicles from various manufacturers. Players progress through a series of challenges organized into 25 chapters, with each chapter comprising multiple race types, including hot laps, one-on-one races, street races, championships, and special challenges like overtaking a number of cars within a time limit.
A unique feature of MSR is the “Kudos” system, where players earn points not only for winning but also for driving with style and precision. Kudos are the currency for unlocking new cars, tracks, and events, creating a skill-based progression that rewards mastery, creativity, and clean racing over brute speed alone. Players can customize some aspects of their cars, including color and roof type, and must carefully manage their garage space, as slots for vehicles are limited.
Visually, MSR impresses with realistic cityscapes, detailed car models, and dynamic weather conditions. The game offers multiple camera angles, including an innovative free camera mode where players can explore the city environment outside of races. The soundtrack, composed by Richard Jacques, complements the fast-paced racing with energetic tunes.
The game also supports multiplayer racing for up to eight players, offering a varied and competitive experience that extends beyond single-player. MSR is widely regarded as a precursor to the acclaimed Project Gotham Racing series and remains one of the Dreamcast’s standout racing titles for its ambitious scope, realism, and engaging gameplay mechanics.
