Sega announced the revival of many classic franchises including Crazy Taxi, Streets of Rage and Jet Set. The Crazy Taxi reboot plans to reintroduce the series with a modern twist. The last console entry, Crazy Taxi 3: High Roller was released in 2002. The series saw limited handheld releases in 2003 and 2007, and mobile entries in 2014 and 2017, none of which are available today.
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Crazy Taxi debuted in arcades in 1999, quickly gaining popularity for its gameplay and energetic soundtrack.
Players control a taxi driver tasked with racing against the clock to deliver passengers to their destinations, earning points by performing stunts and navigating traffic.
The game was later ported to home consoles like the Sega Dreamcast, where it continued to enjoy popularity.
Sega announced the Crazy Taxi reboot along with new entries in classic franchises like Jet Set Radio, Shinobi, Golden Axe and Streets of Rage during The Game Awards 2023.
The teaser showcased brief gameplay clips of each game, building anticipation for the return of these titles.
In a developer-focused video interview reported by Automaton, Sega’s team shared more about their vision for the Crazy Taxi reboot.
The game is being developed using Unreal Engine for high-quality graphics and a vast game world.
The Crazy Taxi reboot game will be an open-world MMO inspired by games like Forza Horizon 5. The game will feature multiplayer modes allowing players to enjoy the fun of Crazy Taxi with others online.
Players can expect the return of classic Crazy Taxi mechanics such as jumping, abrupt stops and drifting. New gameplay elements are being added to enhance the fun.
The Crazy Taxi Reboot will feature a detailed city environment based on the West Coast of the United States, offering freedom to drive around, knock down objects and explore restricted areas.
The level design team plans to create a realistic city that enhances the thrill of driving while maintaining the fun the series is known for.
The Crazy Taxi Reboot will feature a theme park-like map allowing players to engage in various activities and driving styles, promoting free communication among players.
The art team focuses on creating a world where the iconic yellow taxi stands out against a bright backdrop.
Characters and vehicles are designed to feel real and fashionable with an emphasis on making them appealing to players.
The development team consisting of both young and experienced members, works in an open and communicative environment, where ideas from all members are considered to improve workflow and game quality.
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The art team conducts field research, visiting real locations to ensure the game environment is realistic and suitable for gameplay.
The team has faced challenges in transitioning from a single-player experience to a live-service multiplayer model but has made progress in development.
Sega is actively recruiting for various positions including game designers, level designers, modelers and programmers to work on Crazy Taxi. Interested parties can apply through Sega’s recruitment page.
The Crazy Taxi Reboot game is still in its early stages, with a long way to go before release. Sega’s team is dedicated to delivering a game that captures the fun and excitement of the original series while incorporating modern elements.
The Crazy Taxi Reboot will feature an expansive open-world environment allowing players to explore a theme park-like map inspired by the U.S. West Coast, California.
The game will support a large number of players simultaneously, integrating MMO elements into the traditional Crazy Taxi gameplay.
In addition to the classic yellow taxis, players can expect to see and possibly control police cars including some unconventional choices like convertible police cars.
The goal is to retain the thrill of racing through crowded streets, performing stunts and making quick deliveries while adapting to a more modern and expansive game format.
Sega has labeled the project as a AAA title, indicating huge investment and high expectations for its success.
The Crazy Taxi Reboot is designed to have broad global appeal leveraging the nostalgia of the original while introducing innovative gameplay mechanics.
The development team is experimenting with how traditional Crazy Taxi gameplay can be integrated into a multiplayer setting.
The Crazy Taxi reboot is part of Sega’s strategy to revive its classic IPs. Other franchises set to make a comeback include Jet Set Radio, Shinobi, Golden Axe and Streets of Rage.
As of now, there is no confirmed release date for the Crazy Taxi reboot or the other announced games.
The development team continues to work on perfecting the game with updates expected to be shared in the coming months.
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