Screenshots
Summary
R4: Ridge Racer Type 4 is the fourth entry in the Ridge Racer franchise. The game features eight tracks, each with reverse versions, totaling 16 unique layouts, along with 321 entirely fictional cars. This installment was among the first PlayStation games to use Gouraud shading on polygons, adding a new level of visual depth that hadn't been seen before. It also marked the first Ridge Racer title on the platform to include two-player split-screen gameplay and provided players with two distinct driving styles.
Storyline
R4: Ridge Racer Type 4 is an arcade racing game that focuses heavily on powersliding through turns. Each vehicle uses one of two sliding techniques based on the car model selected: Drift or Grip. Drift cars require the player to press the brake briefly while turning to perform a smooth slide, whereas Grip cars demand alternating between the brake and accelerator during turns. Cars are unlocked by progressing through the game’s Grand Prix mode. Players select from four teams — R.C. Micro Mouse Mappy, Pac Racing Club, Racing Team Solvalou, or Dig Racing Team — each with its own difficulty, and one of four car manufacturers — Age Solo, Lizard, Assoluto, or Terrazi — which influences the car's handling and sliding style. In each race, players must achieve a qualifying position, with later rounds requiring better finishes to advance. Depending on performance in each race, players earn either a new car or an upgrade to their current one. The best vehicles are unlocked by securing first place in every race, while lower-tier cars are obtained by just meeting the minimum requirements. Completing the Grand Prix with all team, manufacturer, and qualifying position combinations unlocks a total of 320 cars, with an extra 321st model inspired by Pac-Man as a bonus. The game includes a Time Attack mode for setting the fastest lap times, as well as VS. Battle, a two-player split-screen mode that was the first of its kind in the home console series. It also features an undocumented PlayStation Link Cable mode supporting up to four players at once. Players can design custom car liveries and take on powerful prototype cars in Extra Trials. The game supports the JogCon controller and the PocketStation, enabling car trading with friends. A new addition was the Decal Edit mode, allowing players to design their own logos to place on their vehicles.
Artwork
Similar games
Alternative titles
- Ridge Racer Type 4— Alternative title
- R4— Acronym