Publisher Blitworks has announced the upcoming launch of retro-inspired racer Slipstream, coming to Switch on April 7th for $9.99/€8.99. The game was originally funded on Kickstarter way back in 2016 and released independently on PC in 2018.

The game is heavily inspired by titles such as Out Run and Horizon Chase Turbo, boasting gorgeous pixelated visuals with a heavy emphasis on drifting around corners. It will feature a handy rewind mechanic to correct any disastrous crashes along with a selection of graphical filters so you can really nail that retro look. Best of all it's got 4-player split-screen - a rare treat these days!

Here's a rundown of all the features:

- The real thing: Built on a custom engine, Slipstream brings authentic 2D sprite-scaling graphics to modern platforms.
- Multiplayer: Local split-screen fun, up to 4 players!
- Time rewinding: Made a mistake? Press the rewind button to travel back in time for up to 5 seconds and try again.
- 20 Different tracks: Set on a variety of exotic locations all around the world... and beyond.
- 5 Playable cars: Inspired by classic models from the 80s and 90s.
- Accessibility Options: There are 3 difficulty levels to choose from, some visual effects can be turned off and, most importantly, the game speed can be reduced up to 50%, giving players more time to react, but keeping the game physics exactly the same.

- 6 Game modes:
- Grand Tour: Scenic trip through five stages, with rival racers to beat and branching paths to choose.
- Cannonball: Freely customizable race mode with optional traffic, rivals and other racers.
- Grand Prix: Championship mode composed of five races, with season scores and optional car customization.
- Single Race: Simple race mode, with customizable settings.
- Time Trial, a solo race against time.
- Battle Royale, an elimination endurance race mode.
- 5 Car models, each with its own specs and playstyle.

- Original soundtrack with 9 exclusive songs by Stefan Moser (Effoharkay).
- Graphical Options: Including Pixelated, CRT and NTSC filters, for a faithful retro experience.

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Image: Blitworks

We love the aesthetic of Slipstream, so we'll be keeping a close eye on this one in the short run up to its April 7th launch. Here's hoping it joins the ranks of the best racing games on Switch!

Will you be picking up Slipstream? Let us know with a comment!