Riders Republic, Ubisoft Annecy’s highly anticipated follow-up to the 2016 extreme sports title Steep, takes players on a whirlwind tour of iconic US National Parks. This time, however, the Alps are gone, and the game has shed its predecessor’s moniker, signaling a fresh start. But beneath the new name lies a familiar core: an always-online, high-speed arcade experience that blends downhill thrills with a hefty helping of social competition. As we delve into the recently released beta, we’ll uncover whether Riders Republic is a compelling evolution of the Steep formula or another attempt at capturing the adrenaline rush of extreme sports that ultimately falls short.
Chasing the Thrill: A Deep Dive into Riders Republic
Riders Republic is a game built for speed and spectacle. Forget the nuanced, physics-driven simulations of other racing games; this is all about taking the edge off the curve and embracing the chaos. From the moment you strap on your gear, whether it’s a bike, skis, or rocket wingsuit, the game throws you headlong into a world of fast-paced action and exhilarating descents.
A World of Speed and Mayhem
One of the most striking aspects of Riders Republic is its commitment to a fast-paced, arcade-style experience. Races routinely push speeds beyond 110 km/h, a pace that blurs the lines between realistic and fantastical. This sense of "extreme" is mirrored in the controls: bikes skid wildly when braking, and riders defy all logic by maintaining their balance even after a high-speed crash. This arcade-style handling delivers a fun, over-the-top experience, but some might crave a more nuanced and realistic control scheme.
Mass Races: Thrilling and Chaotic
At the heart of Riders Republic’s social interactions is Mass Race. These massive, 32-player (on current-gen consoles) or 64-player (on PC and next-gen consoles) events pit competitors against each other in a thrilling, chaotic race across the sprawling map. The format, drawing inspiration from The Crew 2, mixes up sports midway through, demanding adaptability and quick reflexes.
"There’s no shortage of action in Riders Republic. You’ll be dodging competitors, navigating challenging terrain, and pushing your skills to the limit. And with the large player count, the sense of competition is palpable."
Backtrack: A Catch-22
Backtrack, Riders Republic’s rewind feature, is a double-edged sword. While it offers a safety net for those who misjudge a turn or make a wrong move, it doesn’t function like the rewind in other racing games. Rewinding your own gameplay doesn’t pause time for other players, meaning you’ll be catching up to ghost versions of your rivals. This makes for a less strategic and more chaotic experience.
"Riders Republic’s Backtrack feature is more about easing your transition into the multiplayer chaos than providing a strategic advantage."
Beyond Speed: Trick-Based Gameplay & Creative Modes
While speed is undoubtedly a prominent element, Riders Republic isn’t just about racing to the finish line. Trick-based gameplay, particularly in the snowboarding events, encourages players to showcase their skills and creativity. Landing intricate tricks, grinding rails, and executing stylish maneuvers all contribute to a high score.
The game offers three distinct control presets, catering to a range of player preferences. The "Racer" preset prioritises buttons, while the "Trickster" option relies on the right stick for pulling off moves. The "Steep" preset, designed for veterans of the original title, allows for more precise control over tricks and landings.
Riders Republic also features Creative Mode: a space for players to design their own trails, challenges, and events. Their creations can be shared with the community, voted upon, and potentially featured in the game. This encourages creativity, innovation, and community engagement.
Immersive Open World & Photo Mode
Beyond the organised races and events, Riders Republic offers a sprawling open world ripe for exploration. Whether you’re soaring through the air on a wingsuit, carving down a mountain on skis, or simply strolling through the stunning landscapes on foot, there’s a sense of freedom and adventure. This open world is not just a backdrop but a dynamic environment waiting to be explored and mastered.
Another way to experience the beauty of Riders Republic is through Photo Mode. This feature allows players to capture breathtaking screenshots of their adventures, experimenting with filters, depth of field, and even weather effects. While not as extensive as other photo modes, it still provides a satisfying outlet for capturing those epic moments.
Pushing the Boundaries of Extreme Sports
Riders Republic offers a compelling vision of extreme sports, showcasing the thrill and chaos of pushing boundaries. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, chaotic events, and emphasis on social competition will appeal to those looking for thrills and an adrenaline rush.
However, the game is not without its shortcomings. The always-online requirement, the lack of a truly strategic rewind, and the somewhat simplistic handling might irritate some players. Ultimately, Riders Republic is a game about embracing the chaos and celebrating the sheer joy of defying gravity on your way to an exhilarating finish.
"Riders Republic is a game that’s meant for those who want a thrilling, slightly-off-kilter, arcade-style experience. If you’re looking for a more nuanced, physics-based racing experience, you might want to look elsewhere."
Final Thoughts
Riders Republic, at its heart, is a celebration of speed, spectacle, and social competition. It embraces the arcade-style thrills and the over-the-top action of extreme sports, pushing players to the limits of their skill and daring. However, its reliance on always-online connectivity, the somewhat limited nature of the rewind feature, and the sometimes-oversimplified handling might be divisive among players.
Ultimately, whether you find Riders Republic exhilarating or frustrating depends on your expectations and tolerance for chaos. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping experience that prioritises social competition, then Riders Republic offers a unique platform for extreme sports entertainment. But if you’re seeking a more polished, strategic, and nuanced approach, you might want to wait for a more refined version of this compelling concept.
