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'Star Wars Episode I: Racer': Release date, news and all you need to know about the game's latest version

The classic game has received sequels and re-releases and now it is being ported to Nintendo Switch and PS4

Who can forget the epic pod-racing sequence from 'Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace'? One of the most exciting parts of the prequel trilogy, the in-movie game was developed into a video game with the title 'Star Wars Episode I: Racer' in the late 1990s and went on to become one of the most successful games in the genre, creating world records for sales. 

The classic game has received sequels and re-releases and it is now being ported to Nintendo Switch and PS4. Here's everything you need to know about the project.

Release date

'Star Wars Episode I: Racer' was originally released on May 18, 1999. The Nintendo Switch version was scheduled to arrive on May 12 while the PS4 version was scheduled for a May 26 release date but both the releases have been delayed indefinitely due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Creator

The classic game was developed by LucasArts, the video game wing of LucasFilm. The new version is being developed by LucasArts in association with Aspyr.

About the game

'Star Wars Episode I: Racer' features a range of tracks spanning multiple planets and exhilarating, high-speed gameplay. The ported version will feature 25 playable racers including Anakin Skywalker, Sebulba and Ratts Tyerell. 

The game features tracks set on eight unique planets including Tatooine, Baroonda and Malastare. Players will also have the option of upgrading their pod racers for higher speeds and accelerations. The new version also boasts split-screen multiplayer options on Nintendo Switch and PS4 as well as LAN multiplayer on Switch.

News

The ported versions were announced on March 26, 2020, with release dates set on May 12. The PS4 release was subsequently delayed to May 26. On May 12, both versions were declared delayed until further notice, reportedly due to difficulties caused by the work-from-home situation that the industry is dealing with as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Trailer

There isn't an official gameplay trailer out for the ported version of the game yet but we'll be updating this section as soon as it becomes available. Stay tuned for more.

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