Stampede: Racing Royale is the answer to the question of what happens when Mario Kart meets a battle royale game. Blending kart racing with chaotic battle royale, we were looking forward to the game entering early access later this year.
Sadly, we now have to wait a little longer for Stampede: Racing Royale.
Chaotic karting
Stampede: Racing Royale mixes high-octane kart racing with battle royale-style events. Up to 60 players compete in each event, with the goal being to be the last kart standing.
Stampede Battles are team events in arenas filled with destructive powerups. Stampede Racing on the other hand is a solo race, with the objective of beating the other 59 karts on track. Each event plays out across three rounds, ending with a high-stakes finale.
Karts can be customised between races using cosmetic items unlocked through winning seasons and limited-time events.
Stampede: Racing Royale was due to hit Steam Early Access later this year. Unfortunately, Sumo Leamington has announced a delay.
Stampede: Racing Royale Early Access delayed to 2024
Stampede: Racing Royale was due to enter Early Access on 2 November. However, developers Sumo Leamington have now revealed that Stampede: Racing Royale’s Early Access has been delayed until "the first half of 2024."
Sumo explains this will give the chance to bring a game that aligns with what fans are expecting. This heavily implies that the game is not yet in a playable and the core features need more refinement time.
The press release also states that the decision has been made in order to benefit the development team. In an age where studios are forced to work through crunch time to meet deadlines, it’s refreshing to see a different approach taken.
So when can we expect to see Stampede: Racing Royale enter Early Access?
The press release only states the first half of 2024, meaning any time between January and June. Although vague, Sumo Leamington has committed to providing further updates nearer the time. The press release also confirms that the game’s console release is unaffected by the delay.
It’s a shame to see Stampede: Racing Royale’s Early Access delayed, but we’re all for it if it results in a better game. Players can stay up-to-date with the development of the game via the Dev Logs.
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