Legendary racing studio Criterion is not coming back to the genre any time soon, according to Criterion studio manager Alex Ward. Ward cites Criterion’s long period of working on nothing but racing games, despite having proven its ability to swim in other waters with 2006’s well-received Black and the more recent arcade-oriented Burnout Crash.
“After over a decade of making racing games it’s time to make something new. It is early days thus I have nothing to ‘announce’ or talk about,” one of his tweets reads.
“I will do my best to keep folks in the loop who want to follow what we play or what inspires us. Or what we might be listening to. But if you are following me expecting some Megaton of a new Burnout game, or an Underground remake then I have to disappoint you.”
Criterion’s Legacy in Racing Games
Criterion Games has long been synonymous with high-octane racing experiences. The studio gained widespread acclaim with the Burnout series, which set new standards for arcade racing games with its emphasis on speed, crashes, and over-the-top action. Titles like Burnout 3: Takedown and Burnout Paradise are still fondly remembered by fans for their innovative gameplay mechanics and thrilling racing dynamics.
However, Criterion’s expertise isn’t limited to just the Burnout series. The studio also contributed significantly to the Need for Speed franchise, with titles like Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit and Need for Speed: Most Wanted. These games were praised for their exhilarating racing experiences and robust online multiplayer modes, further cementing Criterion’s reputation in the racing genre.
Exploring New Horizons
Despite their success in racing games, Criterion has shown that they are capable of branching out into other genres. The 2006 release of Black, a first-person shooter, demonstrated the studio’s versatility. Black was well-received for its intense action sequences and impressive graphics, proving that Criterion could excel outside of racing.
More recently, Burnout Crash showcased Criterion’s ability to innovate within the arcade gaming space. This game took a different approach by focusing on crash scenarios rather than traditional racing, offering a fresh and entertaining experience for players.
Ward’s recent comments suggest that Criterion is eager to explore new creative avenues. While the specifics of their future projects remain under wraps, the studio’s track record indicates that whatever they choose to pursue next will likely be met with anticipation and excitement from the gaming community.
The decision to move away from racing games may disappoint some fans, but it also opens up new possibilities for Criterion to surprise and delight players with fresh and innovative experiences. Whether it’s another first-person shooter, a new arcade game, or something entirely different, the gaming world will be watching closely to see what Criterion has in store.
In the meantime, fans can stay connected with Criterion’s journey through Alex Ward’s updates on social media. His commitment to keeping followers informed about the studio’s inspirations and activities provides a glimpse into the creative process behind their upcoming projects.
Source Twitter
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