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Futuristic racer Screamer showcases first gameplay

Remember Inertial Drift and Blur? Imagine if they were one melded into one game.

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The first (pre-alpha) gameplay footage for Milestone’s Screamer revival has been showcased in bombastic pre-alpha form.

A return for the 1990s racing video game series, the modern reboot looks to be set in dark city streets, with Armco-lined tracks and an emphasis on vehicular impacts.

During the footage, there is stilted voice-over dialogue, affirming a narrative with characters behind the wheel of each car.

The aesthetic reminds us of indie gem Inertial Drift, although toned down, and at one point, a drive enables some form of ‘mode’ which sets the car ablaze and vanquishes a rival with a simple tap.

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It looks like this ‘power up’ has a similar effect to Mario Kart’s star mode, but in a grittier setting, reminding us a little of Bizarre Creations’ 2020 Blur.

Vehicles are fictional, futuristic items, with presumably different attributes – one has a low front end, akin to a Robot Wars entry, ideal for spitting rivals off track. Handling seems to be drift-heavy in focus and there looks to be a ubiquitous boost mechanic.

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Screamer marks a significant change in direction for the Italian development team. In recent years, alongside its annual Monster Energy Supercross and MotoGP games, it has produced vibrant, accessible games such as two Hot Wheels Unleashed titles and Monster Jam Showdown.

Screamer is expected to release in 2026 for PC, PlayStation and Xbox Series X|S.