GAME CLEAR No. 43 -- Daytona USA

Daytona USA (1994, Multiplatform)

Developer: SEGA AM2
Publisher: SEGA
Clear Version: Xbox Live Arcade (2011)
Clear Platform: Xbox Series X
Clear Date: 7/21/2021

Well, my Xbox Series X arrived, so I did what any reasonable person would do with it: I finally beat Daytona USA (on Very Easy).

I had a bit of difficulty categorizing this one for the purposes of the above metadata. This very much is a port of the original arcade classic, but it’s also dramatically improved. It has the usual 1080p/60fps bump plus enhanced textures and all the other things these sorts of ports are known for. However, it also features major additions like online multiplayer, leaderboards, and additional modes. In many ways this makes it a significantly different game than, say, the Saturn version, so I’ve noted the clear version above (and in the “box” art).

And may I just say that this port is very good! The updated visuals are faithful to the original while taking advantage of then-modern hardware to look much sharper and smoother. The main attraction is still the base game that has always been there: arcade mode. It consists of three tracks of increasing difficulty. You can choose between automatic and manual transmissions, but other than that, you just go! The racing is simple but challenging, and mastering the corners is how you’ll beat its toughest difficulties (which I certainly have not yet). As you race, you’ll be challenged by competitive AI and tap your foot to its bangin’ soundtrack. The soundtrack is what gives this game its “SEGA” feel and is not to be missed. In fact, new to this version is a Karaoke mode in which you can drive along any track you please as the lyrics to the track of your choosing appear on screen in time with the song. It’s a delight.

Another nice addition is the inclusion of a Challenge Mode, which tasks you with racing against various constraints on each track. Some have you try to complete a fast lap, some having you complete a stretch of the race without hitting any walls, and others have you try to achieve a high speed over a tricky section of track. They’re somewhat simple, but they do add a little length to the game if you try to complete them all. Also, since some of them require the use of a manual transmission, this mode can be good for learning how to bang some gears.

Of course, perhaps the biggest addition was online multiplayer, but the time has long since passed for me to have a real shot at trying that, so unfortunately I can’t really comment on it. Still, at least the leaderboards are still around to help me determine just how good (or not) I am at this game.

Anyway, can’t go wrong with this one. It rules.

If nothing else, listen to its oustanding title theme.