Hamster is bringing the 1997 racing game Armadillo Racing to modern consoles on July 23. This release gives players a chance to experience a classic arcade title on current hardware. The move matters because it makes a niche retro game accessible on the latest generation of gaming systems.
Hamster splits retro racer into standard and enhanced editions
The developer has split the release into two distinct versions for different platform generations. The Arcade Archives 2 version launches on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and Switch 2. The standard Arcade Archives version targets the older PlayStation 4 and original Switch consoles.
The Arcade Archives 2 version costs $16.99 (around $16.99) or 1,800 yen (around $11.04). It introduces a new Time Attack Mode and adds Variable Refresh Rate support. Hamster states that VRR allows gameplay to be reproduced more accurately and closer to the original arcade experience.
Buyers who already own the standard version can upgrade for $2.99 (around $2.99) or 330 yen (around $2.02). The base Arcade Archives version is priced at $14.99 (around $14.99) or 1,500 yen (around $9.20). This upgrade path allows owners of the older release to access the enhanced features without buying the game twice.
We looked at the broader Arcade Archives catalog earlier while tracking Hamster's retro game strategy. The game was originally released by Namco Limited in 1997. This release confirms the title's availability across five different console and handheld platforms starting next week.
Source: Gematsu
