The Daily Downforce was able to catch up with Roderick Roode, the CEO of Team6 Game Studios to discuss the next NASCAR arcade-style game that just dropped, NASCAR Arcade Rush. Team6 works closely with GameMill Entertainment, and the two are teaming up for a NASCAR gaming experience for all ages.
“The idea came from them having had a previous relationship with NASCAR and experience in the arcade racing genre with Cruis’n Blast, so it was a natural fit for GameMill and NASCAR to partner together around providing a new and fresh NASCAR arcade racing experience for fans new and old,” Roode said.
Team6 and GameMill both teamed up most recently to make “NHRA Championship Drag Racing: Speed for All”, and the experience from both that and the number of racing games that the two have teamed up on played a big role in this game. Team6 and GameMill have teamed up to create games such as the “Street Outlaws” series and the previously mentioned NHRA game.
“We really tapped into those qualities within our game development DNA to align with this project’s objectives – delivering a high-speed racing experience that has a distinct identity – an identity built around unique twists on both racing and the vaunted NASCAR brand.” Roode said.
Many may wonder whether or not this game is going to be closer to a kart racing game, or if it will be closer to an arcade-style racer like NASCAR Unleashed or NASCAR Rumble. While Roode said this is more comparable to an arcade-style game, there is still some inspiration taken from kart races, all with a special NASCAR twist.
“We sought to incorporate NASCAR elements such as drafting and pack racing while ensuring that the gameplay remains enjoyable and engaging for players of all ages within an arcade framework,” Roode said.
Roode placed a large emphasis on the game being easy to pick up and play for fans of all ages. The game features both licensed NASCAR tracks with additions of things such as jumps, boosts, and tight turns that are typically found in arcade-style games. Roode also highlighted the easy-to-pick-up controls as another thing that will appeal to many fans.
“We believe we’ve crafted a universe that will resonate with both kids and families, thanks to the split-screen functionality (with the exception of no split-screen on Nintendo Switch).”
Roode also emphasized how this game is all about being fun and family friends. He stated that the plan was never to create a simulation-style game, but rather create a game that was fun for all ages in a unique setting apart from the universe in simulation-style games.
“We wanted to offer pure, lighthearted enjoyment suitable for all ages that exist in an alternate universe to the sim games.” Roode said, “We designed the game to evoke nostalgia and trigger a sense of freedom, creativity, and immersive engagement.”
In regards to that sense of nostalgia, the game har marketed showcasing the 75 years of NASCAR history. Roode credited the “creative freedom” given to his studio that allowed them to incorporate those elements into the final game.
“Players will have the opportunity to race against stock car vehicles spanning 75 years of styles and horsepower, which adds a layer of celebratory excitement and nostalgia to the gameplay experience,” Roode said.
Roode also discussed what impact that customization has on this game. He mentioned that, when it comes to customizing the car, players can look at paint schemes, rims, spoilers, and more. He even discussed how these customization elements can be taken into multiplayer modes as well.
“Players can create bonds through NASCAR and the narratives and personas they create.” Roode said, “The game is fun for all ages and has something exciting for everyone.”
Roode left everything open-ended when it comes to any future plans with NASCAR. He complimented the partnership that currently exists with NASCAR, and he mentioned that he would love to continue working with them in the future.
“We certainly would love to apply our passion for the sport towards bringing more NASCAR content in fun and engaging ways to the gaming community,” Roode said, “But in terms of plans, well, everyone will just have to wait and see what the future holds!”
NASCAR Arcade Rush released on September 15, and Team6 promises it will be a fun, arcade-style game for all ages.