Wipeout 2097

Gameplay in Wipeout 2097 expands upon its predecessor, introducing new circuits and weapons while retaining fundamental aspects. Players race against computer-controlled artificial opponents or other pilots, aiming to finish in the highest position possible. The game features futuristic hover vehicles that handle differently from traditional racing cars. The craft move at high speeds, with air-brakes used for cornering.

Wipeout 2097 introduces a weapons system, allowing players to eliminate opponents during races. Each vehicle has a shield energy quota, and when this reaches zero from weapon attacks or impacts, the craft is destroyed. However, the ship can be "recharged" to health at the pit stop in exchange for a precious few seconds of the race. The Quake Disruptor is a notable new weapon, causing a wave effect on the track that launches opponent vehicles into the air.

The game offers multiple difficulty levels, called classes: Vector, Venom, and Rapier. Each class increases in challenge, with higher speeds and more complex tracks. Wipeout 2097 features a progression system where players can unlock additional content. Winning gold medals across all tracks in the first three classes unlocks a full season mode.

Completing this season reveals additional hidden options, including new tracks. Challenge mode takes a very single player-centric approach by only allowing progress to the next track by coming in first on the current track. Players can lose the mode by losing all three lives, which are lost by finishing a race in worse than third position. The game includes multiple racing teams, each with vehicles that handle differently.

FEISAR, the European team, offers a balanced vehicle with good turning and strong shields, suitable for beginners learning the tracks. Auricom, the American team, provides faster vehicles than FEISAR and AG Systems, designed for more experienced racers. AG Systems, the Japanese team, features a vehicle with higher speed than FEISAR's but less cornering ability. Qirex, the Russian team, offers the fastest vehicles in the game, but with reduced steering capabilities.

Each team's vehicle has its own strengths and weaknesses, allowing players to choose based on their preferred driving style and skill level.