If you are unfamiliar with the Pico-8, it is a development platform focused on games over code. Initially a portable device, fans can now purchase the Pico-8 system to run on Windows, Macintosh, and Pi devices. I like to feature some of the more technologically impressive releases when I come across them. Virtua Racing is one such release and boy is it impressive.
<h2>Limitations of the hardware</h2>
Considering the design scope of the Pico-8 hardware it is impossible for this port of Virtua Racing to be played on the hardware. Therefore, I mentioned the computer versions of the software. While it would be awesome to whip Virtua Racing out to show off on the actual Pico-8 hardware, it is simply not possible.
Maybe in a future revision to the hardware we will be able to load bigger files. One can dream.
For another technological marvel that will run on your Pico-8 hardware, <a href="http://retrogamingmagazine.com/2016/11/25/bandit-gaming-star-fox-ported-to-pico-8-named-picofox/">check out Picofox</a>, a fan port of Starfox. Just donβt tell Nintendo. For more games that deserve to be on your list, check out <a href="http://retrogamingmagazine.com/2016/08/05/5-new-pico-8-games-show-off/">these 5 Pico-8 titles</a>.
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<h2>Crazy awesomeness of the software</h2>
The fact that this is running on the stock version of the Pico-8 software is amazing. It also shows just how versatile the software is. While many developers are busy working on run and jump style games, nothing wrong with that, there are some developers pushing the limits of the software in the 3D realm (makes me extremely excited).
<h2>There are limitations to the software though</h2>
I would be remiss for not bringing them up. First, there is a fair amount of severe clipping going on in the distance. This is to be expected. I would gauge this at about what the Sega Saturn was doing with the original Daytona game.
It is not so bad that you cannot enjoy Virtua Racing. No where near that bad.
What is here is amazing, if not a little floaty as far as controls. This could be the fact that I was playing using a keyboard. We all know how much more effective controllers are in these types of games.
<h2>Free is free, enjoy</h2>
Virtua Racing on the <a href="http://bit.ly/2uZRIBC">Pico-8 is free</a>, it is unofficial which is why it is in our Bandit Gaming section. I doubt we will see Sega shutting this one down, but you never know so enjoy it now while you can.
This article was originally published on <a href="http://retrogamingmagazine.com/2020/02/02/virtua-racing-pico-8-port-released/">Retro Gaming Magazine</a>, a gaming website I own.
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