Atlus is developing...a racing game?

by: Sean Colleli - posted: 12/1/2008 9:47:00 PM

Atlus, a publisher known for its hardcore RPGs and niche favorites like Trauma Center is breaking into the racing genre with Trackmania DS.  The game seems to live on customization, with a ton of car add-ons and extras, a fully functioned track editor and a base set of over 100 tracks.  From the release, I get the feeling this game will have Atlus's typical quirky, over-the-top style, which is great--we need something besides Mario Kart on the DS.

ATLUS RACES TRACKMANIA DS INTO NORTH AMERICA ON MARCH 17, 2009 Key the ignition, rev up, and launch into the most exciting racer on Nintendo DS™.  Feel your pulse quicken as you thrust into a loop.  Brace yourself as you fly off a ramp to the heavens.  The thrills never cease, the possibilities are endless.  Dream it, design it... Drive it! Over 100 tracks geared for blazing fast racing action - each loaded with daring jumps, thrilling loops, crazy ramps, and a host of other insane stunts - are just the start. Players have access to the most powerful portable track design system ever, giving TrackManiacs total freedom to create the most over-the-top race courses imaginable and offering practically unlimited value. TrackMania's "Coppers" reward system gives you credits for completed races which can be used to unlock new tracks, new car paint schemes, and most importantly, new parts to use in making the tracks of your dreams.  The more you race, the more you can do! With single and multi-card local wireless multiplayer support for up to four players at a time (and eight players via Hotseat mode), in addition to the ability to share and race on each others' custom tracks, TrackMania DS is the best value and most feature-filled stunt racer for Nintendo DS™!

Atlus may be best known for its RPGs, but we're going to blow everyone away with this R.P.G. (Racing Powerhouse of a Game) this Spring!  AMIRITE?!  *goes up for high five*   ...Anyone?