S.C.A.R.S.

Set in the year 3000 AD, S.C.A.R.S. (Super Computer Animal Racing Simulation) is a futuristic arcade racing game where nine bored supercomputers create a virtual reality racing simulation. Players control nine unique vehicles inspired by extinct Earth animals across nine tracks, combining high-speed racing with combat using nine different weapons. The game features arcade-style gameplay, unlockable cars, and supports both single-player and multiplayer modes including split-screen on PC.

S.C.A.R.S.: A Forgotten Gem of 1998

In the vast landscape of 1990s racing games, S.C.A.R.S. (Super Computer Animal Racing Simulation) stands as a peculiar and often overlooked title. Developed by Vivid Image and published by Ubisoft, this sci-fi themed arcade racer blended the chaotic fun of Mario Kart with the futuristic aesthetics of Wipeout. Despite its quirks and limitations, S.C.A.R.S. carved out a niche for itself, offering a unique blend of animal-themed vehicles, combat racing, and vibrant track design. This review will delve into the game’s development, narrative, gameplay mechanics, and its enduring legacy in the gaming world.

Development History & Context

S.C.A.R.S. was developed by Vivid Image, a studio known for its work on Street Racer and later Rayman 2: The Great Escape. The game was conceived during the late 1990s, a golden era for arcade-style racing games. The development team, led by Mev Dinc, initially envisioned a concept of cars based on wildcats and other animals, with tracks reflecting their natural habitats. Ubisoft, the publisher, provided additional graphics and sound design resources to support the strained development team.

The game was originally titled Vivid Racing but was later renamed S.C.A.R.S. to reflect its futuristic and animal-themed premise. The development process was fraught with challenges, particularly balancing the high level of detail with the performance constraints of the era’s hardware. Tracks had to be shortened, leading to a more condensed and challenging experience than initially planned.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Set in the year 3000, S.C.A.R.S. presents a world ruled by nine supercomputers who, bored of their existence, create a virtual reality simulation for racing. Each supercomputer controls a car based on an animal, complete with unique weapons. The narrative is lighthearted and serves as a backdrop for the game’s core mechanics rather than a deep storytelling experience.

The game features nine animal-themed cars: lion, elephant, rhinoceros, shark, preying mantis, scorpion, cobra, cheetah, and panther. Each car has distinct attributes, such as speed, handling, armor, and weapon strength. The tracks are equally diverse, ranging from futuristic cityscapes to ancient ruins, each designed to reflect the animal’s natural habitat.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

S.C.A.R.S. is a combat racing game where players can collect weapons to hinder opponents. The game features various modes, including Grand Prix, Challenge, and Time Attack. The Grand Prix mode involves competing in a series of races to unlock new tracks and cars. The Challenge mode allows players to race against specific cars to unlock them for use in other modes.

The combat system is unique in that it does not involve direct destruction but rather temporary slowdowns when hit by weapons. Players can use jump jets to avoid certain weapons, adding a layer of strategy to the gameplay. The weapons range from turbo boosts to magnets, seeker-style missiles, time bombs, and shields.

The game supports up to four players in split-screen mode, making it a popular choice for multiplayer sessions. However, the PC version is limited to two-player split-screen, a notable omission given the era’s multiplayer capabilities.

World-Building, Art & Sound

S.C.A.R.S. features vibrant, cartoonish graphics that set it apart from more realistic racing simulators of the time. The tracks are filled with bright colors and surreal landscapes, enhancing the game’s futuristic setting. The art direction is reminiscent of Wipeout, with a focus on visual flair over realism.

The sound design complements the game’s aesthetic, featuring a mix of electronic and techno music that enhances the racing experience. The vehicle sounds are distinctive, with each animal-themed car having its unique engine noise. The sound effects for weapons and track interactions are equally immersive, adding to the game’s chaotic charm.

Reception & Legacy

Upon its release in 1998, S.C.A.R.S. received mixed to positive reviews. Critics praised its vibrant graphics, multiplayer options, and unique weapon system. However, some criticized its lack of depth and the limited single-player experience. The Nintendo 64 version was particularly well-received, with critics noting its superior graphics and controls compared to the PlayStation version.

Despite its initial reception, S.C.A.R.S. has since gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. Its unique blend of arcade racing and combat mechanics has been compared to Mario Kart, though with a more mature and chaotic edge. The game’s influence can be seen in later titles that blend racing with combat elements, such as Twisted Metal and Crash Team Racing.

Conclusion

S.C.A.R.S. is a testament to the creativity and innovation of late 1990s game development. While it may not have achieved the same level of recognition as its contemporaries, its unique blend of animal-themed vehicles, combat racing, and vibrant aesthetics makes it a memorable title. The game’s legacy lies in its ability to offer a fun, chaotic multiplayer experience that still holds up today.

In the annals of video game history, S.C.A.R.S. may not be a household name, but it deserves recognition as a forgotten gem that pushed the boundaries of arcade racing. Its influence can be seen in the countless combat racers that followed, and its vibrant, chaotic charm continues to captivate retro gaming enthusiasts. For those seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane or a unique racing experience, S.C.A.R.S. remains a worthy addition to any gaming library.