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?
If you ever played Papyrus’ seminal Grand Prix Legends then you’ve read his name. Rich began working as a tester on NASCAR Racing (1994) and was with Papyrus at the end. In this interview, published in 2022, we discuss his time at the legendary studio and the design of Grand Prix Legends, including initial feelings of hurt at not being asked to join iRacing.
This was the first public simulator release from military simulation developer Image Space Incorporated, and was initially funded by Virgin Interactive with publishing assistance from Command & Conquer developer Westwood Studios. Prior to release Electronic Arts acquired both Virgin and Westwood, along with Sportscar GT.
Delays in release caused by the transition to EA gave ISI additional time to work on the product, which led to a number of unplanned features being implemented in the software. The delay also led to the open nature of the .ini files that gave an opportunity not only for last minute developer tweaking, but also for the sim racing community to create a wide array of mods upon release.
Fictional tracks:
Chatham
Desert Speedway (most likely Las Vegas Motor Speedway clone)
North Point
Sardian Park