Driving games have never been known for providing a story. Sure, Need For Speed: Payback gave it a red-hot go back in 2017 – and to varying degrees of success, depending on who you ask – but traditionally, this has been a genre of video games which never really required a story element. Though that may soon change depending on whether Electronic Arts and Codemasters (Dirt, Formula 1) manage to set a lasting precedent with GRID Legends.
Based on what we’ve seen, heard, and know about the upcoming release so far, GRID legends will blend the high-octane action of previous franchise instalments with quite an involved and immersive, borderline cinematic story mode. This will apparently involve exploring the behind-the-scenes drama + politics usually attached to professional motorsports, not entirely unlike the behind-the-scenes drama + politics depicted in Netflix’s Formula 1 docuseries, Drive To Survive.
The trailer above showcases an entire cast of characters ranging from your cocky world champions to hopeful rookies, all of whom have been filmed in live-action and transplanted directly into the game.
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The official GRID Legends game description is as follows:
“The legendary Grid World Series returns and, this year, players are front and centre in a fly-on-the-wall documentary that captures every moment on and off the track. Drivers encounter fierce personalities, internal team politics and the infamous Ravenwest Motorsport, which hopes to take a sixth World Championship. Developed using innovative virtual production – extended reality techniques popularised by Disney+ and The Mandalorian – which brings players closer to the action, the underdog tale features an eclectic cast, including award-winning British actor Ncuti Gatwa (Sex Education).”
“Grid Legends delivers drama across every inch of the track. Unique driver personality AI creates unpredictable racing as cars jostle for a place on the podium. Compete on over 130 routes, including real-life tracks such as Brands Hatch and Indianapolis, to iconic Grid city circuits like San Francisco, Paris, and more. Race and upgrade over 100 vehicles from classic touring cars to big rigs, single-seaters, to stadium trucks. With the inclusion of the race creator, players can take their favourite mixed-class rides onto the track and battle it out online.”
Arriving to PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox Series X | S, Xbox One, as well as PC – GRID Legends is scheduled to hit shelves and online platforms sometime in 2022.
Check out the heart-pumping debut trailer above.
