Outrun Online Arcade Announced

19 December, 2008 9 May, 2025

Something may be afoot at Sega.

On the heels of various reports noting re-trademarking of Virtual On, Jet Set Radio, and of all things Sonic Shuffle, comes the official announcement that Outrun Online Arcade, the update to Outrun 2: Coast to Coast, will soon be on its way to two console marketplaces.
Early next year the game download, available in high definition, will be placed on XBOX Live and the Playstation Network.

Here’s Sega’s official press release:

SEGA’s classic arcade racer returns, but this time it’s in stunning HiDef and available via PlayStation® Network and Xbox LIVE® Arcade for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft®. Developed by acclaimed Sheffield studio Sumo Digital, OutRun Online Arcade, will be available early 2009.

Test your time, speed and handling ability as you race through vibrant, colourful stages and rediscover the 15 glorious OutRun courses. From the steep streets of San Francisco to the beautiful beaches of California, it’s mile after mile of unrelenting acceleration, thrills and action. Feel the kick as you put your foot to the floor in one of the 10 high-performance, fully licensed Ferrari cars as you race your way across the U.S. to a killer soundtrack.

For the first time on PlayStation® Network and Xbox LIVE®, OutRun Online Arcade delivers online multiplayer racing for up to 6 players, with fast paced OutRun, Heart Attack and Time Attack modes, the draw to the open road has never been so appealing. OutRun Online Arcade on Xbox LIVE® will feature achievements and voice; and on PlayStation® Network will include trophies, voice over IP and leaderboards.

Which route will you choose on your drive for the highest possible score?
OutRun Online Arcade will be released on Xbox LIVE® Arcade and PlayStation® Network early 2009.

With this, you have to wonder if there’s now much more significant meaning to those franchise trademark renewals. Could we see some classic franchises updated and released in a similar fashion? We will let you know if we find out anything.