Being honest, racing games have never been my go-to genre, but there’s something about the Burnout series that has always intrigued me. Unlike traditional car games, Burnout brought a fresh twist with its focus on crashes and stunts, not just the race itself. Developed by Criterion Games, Burnout found its niche in the market by offering a unique blend of adrenaline-fueled action and arcade-style gameplay.
Whatever Happened To Burnout?
The Burnout franchise, born out of the desire to break away from the realism of titles like Gran Turismo, quickly gained popularity with its unique Crash mode introduced in Burnout 2: Point of Impact. Subsequent releases like Burnout 3: Takedown and Burnout Revenge further solidified its place as a frontrunner in the arcade racing genre.
Criterion Games’ acquisition by EA led to a shift in focus towards the Need for Speed franchise, marking the decline of new Burnout releases. However, the remaster of Burnout Paradise in 2018 reignited interest in the series and hinted at a potential comeback.
Let The Franchise Speed Back
While the Burnout series has taken a backseat in recent years, its influence can still be seen in modern racing games, particularly in Criterion Games’ work on the Need for Speed titles. The possibility of a Burnout revival, whether through a remaster or a new installment, is an exciting prospect for fans of the franchise.
Recent teasers from Stellar Entertainment, the developers behind the Burnout Paradise remaster, suggest that a remaster of Burnout 3: Takedown could be in the works, hinting at a potential return of the beloved series. Despite Criterion’s current focus on other projects, the idea of a Burnout resurgence is a tantalizing thought for fans and newcomers alike.