Genre: Racing / Driving
Developer: Criterion Games
Publisher: Acclaim Entertainment
Year: 1999
Platform: Dreamcast
TrickStyle is a futuristic hoverboard racing game set in the year 2099, placing players in fast-paced stunt-filled races across iconic cities like London, Tokyo, and Manhattan, as well as a central arena known as the Velodrome. The central narrative positions hoverboard racing as an extreme sport, originating from technology developed after a cataclysmic global event, offering players a high-energy, sci-fi racing experience.
The gameplay allows players to select from multiple racers, each with a unique special move, and compete in races or challenge the Velodrome trainer to unlock new tricks and hoverboards. Players must navigate through obstacle-filled tracks, perform grinding and aerial tricks, and pass through gates within a time limit. The game features 18 main tracks plus reversed versions, and unlocking all races on a continent leads to boss races and additional hoverboard options.
Graphically, TrickStyle was acclaimed for its impressive visuals and hoverboard physics. The environments are richly detailed, and the character models are smooth and expressive. Critics highlighted the game’s distinctive art direction as among the best for console racers of its era, and the futuristic aesthetic added to its stylish presentation.
