News: ...In Japan that is.
Koei has announced that their new futuristic racer, Fatal Inertia, will be ready for the PS3's launch next year.
In their release Koei was bandying about the Spring 2006 time frame for the PS3's launch that Sony has talking about for a while. There is also a good chance Fatal Inertia will make the North American launch as well as it's being developed by Koei Canada. Any hint as to when that will be is still up in the air.
Fatal Inertia will put players in the cockpit of the 23rd century racing machines that are used in the world's most popular sport: Inertia. Once behind that wheel, Koei promises some nifty physics based features:
A realistic world based on physics
The foundation of Fatal Inertia is its physics engine, which uses the power of the PS3 to create weapons and environments that are unlike anything seen before. The beautiful natural environments aren't just scenery - they are there to be used in combat, and rock walls can quickly become avalanches to use against your opponents. You'll have unparalleled freedom, and with all the possibilities the physics-based engine has to offer, you'll never have the same play experience twice.
A variety of physics-based weaponry
In this game, weapons are not something you use to directly damage an opponent, but are items used to create a variety of physics-based effects. A single weapon has a variety of uses, and you'll discover new ways to use them every time you play.
Completely customizable vehicles
The vehicles in Fatal Inertia are highly customizable, and with the large variety of designs and parts at your disposal, you can truly inject your own personality into your ride. You can also save your custom vehicles to a memory card, and take them on the road.
A variety of game modes
This game isn't just about getting to the finish line first, with a wide variety of game modes to choose from. There are several competitive and cooperative modes, and season play that lets you win prizes and gain special items. Whether you're a speed demon or a road warrior, you'll find a mode that's right for you.
Breathtaking, nature-based stages
Desolate woodlands, dusty canyons, giant glacial ranges, and other natural regions are your playground. But the environments are not just there to be sped through - they offer many opportunities to hinder your opponents as well.
The thrill of multiplayer battle
Take your customized vehicles and play in epic multiplayer combat. With the many ways to use the weapons and environments, every multiplayer battle is sure to be a hotly-contested affair.
We'll have more on Fatal Inertia as it becomes available.