Asobo, known today as the Microsoft Flight Simulator developer, created groundbreaking technology for large scale maps that was intended to be used in a high quality rally raid title. It was never released and ended up as FUEL, a post-apocalyptic open-world racing game. What happened?
Join Jon Denton, Tim Wheatley, Simon Croft and guest(s) as they discuss sim racing and racing games past, present and future.
In quite a surprising move considering the apparent health of Virgin Interactive and their previous work with the publisher, Papyrus today announced their acquisition by Sierra On-line who seem to be looking to make use of their vast development experience in other areas than sim racing. Obviously there’s some concern this may put the genre at-risk, but the statement posted below seems to indicate otherwise.
Posted by Papyrus on their Bulletin Board:
SIERRA ACQUIRES PAPYRUS
Sierra On-Line Inc. acquired Papyrus Design Group Inc., the developers of NASCAR Racing and Indy Car Racing.In 1996 Papyrus plans to release 6 titles with Sierra including additional motorsport simulations and Sony and Sega game platform conversions. Papyrus will also begin developing non-sports titles, branching into other product categories, in ’97. Sierra officials say that all of Papyrus’ R&D employees, 75 out of a total of 100, will keep their jobs.
No decisions have been made on the remaining 25. Papyrus will continue the development of its multiplayer online gaming service.