Wipeout Pulse vs Wipeout HD
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Wipeout Pulse is an adrenaline-fueled futuristic racing game developed by SCE Studio Liverpool and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. Players pilot high-speed anti-gravity ships across twisting tracks while utilizing an arsenal of offensive and defensive weapons to outmaneuver opponents. Building upon the success of its predecessors, the game delivers intense single-player championships and robust multiplayer modes. With stunning visuals, a pulsating electronic soundtrack, and precise handling, it remains a standout entry in the sci-fi racing genre.
Wipeout HD brings together the best tracks and ships from Wipeout Pure and Wipeout Pulse, remastered in stunning high definition for the PlayStation 3. Experience the thrill of futuristic combat racing accompanied by a pulsing electronic soundtrack and seamless online and offline multiplayer modes. Master the art of anti-gravity navigation, utilize devastating weaponry against your opponents, and test your reflexes across multiple game modes including Zone, Time Trial, and Tournament. Developed by SCE Studio Liverpool, it stands as a pinnacle of high-speed arcade racing.
- Exhilarating sense of high speed
- Fantastic electronic soundtrack
- Challenging and rewarding handling model
- Robust track design and track reversing feature
- Stunning 60 FPS visuals
- Exhilarating sense of speed
- Fantastic electronic soundtrack
- Robust split-screen support
- Steep learning curve for newcomers
- Aggressive rubber-banding AI on higher difficulties
- Limited active online community today
- High difficulty curve for newcomers
- Limited to PlayStation 3
- Aggressive rubber-banding on higher difficulties
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Wipeout Pulse
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Futuristic anti-gravity combat racing returns with high-speed thrills and pulse-pounding beats.
Alternatives to Wipeout HD
View all →Futuristic anti-gravity combat racing returns with high-speed thrills and pulse-pounding beats.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataWipeout Pulse offers richer single‑player content, customisation and a higher critic score at a higher price, while Wipeout HD delivers lower cost, split‑screen local play and smoother 60 FPS visuals but fewer tracks.
Key differences
- •Price: Pulse $39.99 vs HD $19.99
- •Track count: Pulse includes numerous tracks with reversing; HD has twelve tracks
- •Graphics performance: HD runs at 60 FPS in HD resolution; Pulse’s frame rate not specified
- •Multiplayer options: HD supports local split‑screen for two players; Pulse does not
- •Release date: Pulse (2007‑12‑13) is older than HD (2008‑09‑25)
Gameplay & fun factor
Pulse’s comprehensive career, multiple race classes and track‑reversing add depth beyond HD’s modes.
Platform availability
Both are PlayStation titles, but HD is limited to PS3 while Pulse’s platform not specified.
Price & value
HD costs $19.99, half the price of Pulse’s $39.99, offering better value for budget buyers.
Multiplayer / co‑op
HD includes local split‑screen for two players; Pulse only offers online multiplayer.
Content & replayability
Pulse features more intricate tracks, track reversing, custom liveries, and a larger career mode.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both note steep learning curves and aggressive rubber‑banding AI on higher difficulties.
Graphics & performance
HD guarantees 60 FPS high‑definition visuals; Pulse’s performance specifications are not provided.
Choose Wipeout Pulse if…
Players who prioritize extensive single‑player content, customization, and higher critical acclaim, and can afford $40.
Choose Wipeout HD if…
Players who want lower cost, local split‑screen play, and smoother 60 FPS visuals on PS3.
Common questions
Which game is cheaper?
Wipeout HD costs $19.99, while Wipeout Pulse costs $39.99.
Do either of the games support local split‑screen multiplayer?
Only Wipeout HD supports local split‑screen for up to two players.
Which title offers more tracks and customization options?
Wipeout Pulse includes numerous intricately designed tracks with reversing and allows custom liveries.