Sega is revving up excitement among gamers with the announcement of its next installment in the Crazy Taxi series. While details are still emerging, it’s already clear that this reboot will take players on an exhilarating ride through an open world described as “massive,” accompanied by a multiplayer mode. Sega is not simply remastering one of the original games; instead, they are embracing the spirit of the classic title and developing it for the modern era.
In a recent Japanese-language video, Sega likened the new Crazy Taxi to Mario Kart’s beloved Battle Mode. Players will still be racing against the clock, a defining characteristic of the game since its inception. However, what sets this reboot apart is the introduction of competition against other players. It’s a thrilling combination: the original Crazy Taxi meets Grand Theft Auto, with a little less violence. Interestingly, it was Grand Theft Auto III that once stole the thunder of Crazy Taxi by capitalizing on the appeal of taxi missions as side quests. Now, it seems we have come full circle.
Excitement around the new Crazy Taxi reached its peak when footage was released in 2023, providing an early glimpse into the game’s features. The gameplay remains as fast-paced as ever, reminiscent of playing the demo Dreamcast version at local Target stores in the early 2000s. However, there are exciting additions to this edition. Similar to Grand Theft Auto, players can now accumulate a “wanted” level and face off against police vehicles, which boast convertible SUVs and McLaren-esque supercars. Furthermore, drifting has been introduced as a skill that not only adds visual flair (with flames in the wheel wells) but also provides an acceleration boost. Additionally, players may even have the opportunity to play as a cop.
Fans of the series will feel right at home with the setting of the new Crazy Taxi game. It appears that it will once again take place in a city inspired by the iconic streets of San Francisco. This means players will have ample opportunities to use steep hills as ramps for dramatic jumps, drift across scenic beaches, and perhaps even utilize bridges to gain an advantage over rivals.
Although an official release date for the next Crazy Taxi has not yet been announced, fans can certainly expect more details to emerge in the coming months. Sega’s commitment to revitalizing this beloved franchise for the 2020s reflects the changing landscape of both video games and the automotive industry. With its combination of nostalgia and exciting new features, the next Crazy Taxi promises to be a must-play experience that will captivate both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Buckle up and get ready for the ride of a lifetime!
