Wipeout XL vs Wipeout 3
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Wipeout XL is a landmark futuristic racing game developed and published by Psygnosis, originally released in 1996. Players pilot anti-gravity craft at extreme speeds across visually striking, gravity-defying tracks while utilizing an arsenal of offensive and defensive weapons to eliminate opponents. Renowned for its sleek design, cutting-edge techno soundtrack featuring artists like The Chemical Brothers and Prodigy, and intense gameplay, the title set a new standard for the racing genre on PC and Mac platforms.
Wipeout 3 is a futuristic racing game developed and published by Psygnosis, renowned for its sleek design, high-speed anti-gravity craft, and pulsating electronic soundtrack. Players navigate winding tracks using speed pads, weapon pick-ups, and precise air-brake controls to outmaneuver opponents. Building upon the success of its predecessors, this installment introduces refined physics, new race modes like Eliminator and Zone, and stunning minimalist aesthetics courtesy of The Designers Republic. It remains a high-water mark for the futuristic racing genre on the original PlayStation console.
- Incredible licensed techno soundtrack
- Sleek, timeless futuristic visual style
- Intense and responsive handling mechanics
- Challenging and rewarding difficulty curve
- Stunning minimalist visual style that has aged remarkably well
- Phenomenal electronic music soundtrack
- Tight and responsive anti-gravity handling mechanics
- Engaging local split-screen multiplayer options
- Steep learning curve for air-brake mechanics
- Limited to single player mode
- Older graphics may not appeal to modern players
- Steep difficulty curve for novice racing players
- Limited availability on modern digital storefronts
- Lacks online multiplayer capabilities
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth games offer critically acclaimed anti-gravity racing with a 90/100 score, but Wipeout 3 is the safer default due to including local split-screen multiplayer, whereas Wipeout XL is single-player only. Your main trade-off is multiplayer capability versus release year and specific track unlocks.
Key differences
- •Multiplayer: Wipeout 3 includes local split-screen multiplayer, while Wipeout XL is strictly single player.
- •Release Date: Wipeout 3 launched in September 1999, whereas Wipeout XL released earlier in September 1996.
- •Pricing: Wipeout 3 has an MSRP of $49.99, while Wipeout XL's MSRP is not specified.
- •Unlocks: Wipeout 3 features hidden tracks and craft models unlocked through championship progression, a feature not explicitly highlighted in Wipeout XL.
- •Weapons: Wipeout XL specifies deploying rockets, mines, and shields, while Wipeout 3 mentions a variety of offensive and defensive weapon pick-ups.
Gameplay & fun factor
Both feature tight anti-gravity handling, air-brake mechanics, twisting futuristic circuits, and aggressive weapon pick-ups with identical 90/100 critic scores.
Platform availability
Both have limited availability on modern digital storefronts, with neither providing specific platform lists.
Price & value
Wipeout 3 has a clear MSRP of $49.99, whereas Wipeout XL's MSRP is not specified in the facts.
Multiplayer / co-op
Wipeout 3 supports local split-screen multiplayer, while Wipeout XL is limited to single player mode.
Content & replayability
Wipeout 3 explicitly features unlockable hidden tracks and craft models by progressing through championship modes.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both feature steep difficulty and learning curves regarding air-brake mechanics and novice racing challenges.
Graphics & performance
Both feature sleek, timeless futuristic visual styles and graphic design created by The Designers Republic.
Choose Wipeout XL if…
Choose Wipeout XL if you prefer the slightly earlier 1996 release date and do not need multiplayer.
Choose Wipeout 3 if…
Choose Wipeout 3 if you want local split-screen multiplayer and unlockable hidden tracks and craft models.
Common questions
Does Wipeout 3 have multiplayer?
Yes, Wipeout 3 features local split-screen multiplayer racing modes.
Does Wipeout XL support multiplayer?
No, Wipeout XL is limited to single player mode.