Wipeout is a PlayStation classic. From the PS1 original that introduced the concept of classy, grown-up gaming to this latest installment – it's been consistently fast, exciting, and part of Sony's lifeblood. Oh, and extraordinarily pretty in a 'metal sleds on jets flying past neon' kind of way. If you've somehow missed out on the series, then here's a quick primer: it's quantum levitation condensed into racing form.
It's a real treat for the eye holes. Being the year 2048, this acts as Wipeout's origin point, meaning craft design is less advanced, and cities are turning towards futuristic rather than the neon utopias of previous games. It's enough subtle difference to freshen things up without changing any of the series' essential traits, namely driving fast and blowing stuff up.
These thrilling and breathless races are punctuated with devilish, tricksy course design and thoughtful, tactical weapons. There is a range of control methods, from baby beginner options to touchscreen interfaces with motion control steering. Don't worry if that offends your hardcore sensibilities; you can change the default Racer controls to 'Wipeout' to get the full air braking tactical experience.
It's also a reasonably substantial game rather than an on-the-go time-waster. The main campaign should take you around ten hours. The AI becomes more dangerous as you go, which means that subsequent cups will likewise take a long time to achieve gold medals. It's a struggle, but it's always a good one.
If you avoid the new, simplified controls, this is as clean and addicting a racing as you'll find on any handheld.
