Wipeout XL vs Wipeout Fusion
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.
Dive into the high-octane world of anti-gravity racing with Wipeout Fusion, developed by SCE Studio Liverpool. Experience adrenaline-fueled competition as you pilot sleek craft across futuristic circuits, utilizing a deadly arsenal of weaponry to eliminate your rivals. Featuring a blistering electronic soundtrack, multiple game modes, and intense split-screen multiplayer action, this installment pushes the limits of PlayStation 2 racing with sleek visuals and uncompromising physics.
- Incredible licensed techno soundtrack
- Sleek, timeless futuristic visual style
- Intense and responsive handling mechanics
- Challenging and rewarding difficulty curve
- Exhilarating sense of high speed
- Fantastic electronic music soundtrack
- Engaging combat racing mechanics
- Solid local split-screen multiplayer
- Steep learning curve for air-brake mechanics
- Limited to single player mode
- Older graphics may not appeal to modern players
- Can be frustratingly difficult for beginners
- Graphics show age compared to modern titles
- Lacks online multiplayer features
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Wipeout XL
View all →
Futuristic anti-gravity combat racing returns with high-speed thrills and pulse-pounding beats.
Alternatives to Wipeout Fusion
View all →
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataWipeout XL is the higher-rated, safer default for retro solo players, while Wipeout Fusion trades some critical acclaim for local multiplayer support and a career mode. The main trade-off is choosing between better review scores and solo focus (XL) versus split-screen multiplayer and career progression (Fusion).
Key differences
- •Multiplayer: Wipeout Fusion includes local split-screen multiplayer, whereas Wipeout XL is strictly single player.
- •Critical Reception: Wipeout XL holds a significantly higher critic score of 90/100 compared to Wipeout Fusion's 70/100.
- •Career and Content: Wipeout Fusion features a comprehensive career mode to unlock teams, tracks, and tournament classes, while Wipeout XL features single player championship modes.
- •Release Era: Wipeout XL is a 1996 retro title designed for retro enthusiasts, while Wipeout Fusion launched in 2002.
Gameplay & fun factor
Wipeout XL earns a stellar 90/100 critic score for its intense handling and aggressive arsenal, beating Fusion's 70/100.
Platform availability
Not specified for either game.
Price & value
Wipeout Fusion has a listed MSRP of $49.99, while Wipeout XL's price is not specified.
Multiplayer / co-op
Wipeout Fusion supports local split-screen multiplayer, whereas Wipeout XL is limited to single player.
Content & replayability
Wipeout Fusion includes a comprehensive career mode to unlock teams, tracks, and tournament classes.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both games feature challenging learning curves, with Fusion frustrating for beginners and XL having a steep air-brake curve.
Graphics & performance
Wipeout XL features sleek, timeless futuristic visual style pioneered by The Designers Republic, while Fusion's graphics show age.
Choose Wipeout XL if…
Retro gaming enthusiasts and sci-fi racing fans prioritizing top critic scores.
Choose Wipeout Fusion if…
Gamers wanting local split-screen multiplayer and a career mode to unlock content.
Common questions
Can I play multiplayer with friends?
Wipeout Fusion supports intense local split-screen multiplayer, while Wipeout XL is limited to single player.
Which game has better reviews from critics?
Wipeout XL has a higher critic score of 90/100, compared to Wipeout Fusion's 70/100.
How much does Wipeout Fusion cost?
Wipeout Fusion has an MSRP of $49.99, while Wipeout XL's price is not specified.