Destruction Derby Raw
| Industry | Video game development |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | United Kingdom |
| Products | Destruction Derby Raw |
Destruction Derby Raw is a racing video game released in 2000, developed by Studio 33 and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation. It represents the third main entry in the Destruction Derby series by Psygnosis, succeeding Destruction Derby 2 (1996), and stands as the fourth title overall following the Nintendo 64 exclusive, Destruction Derby 64 (1999).
Gameplay
Staying true to the fundamental concept of the Destruction Derby franchise, this installment introduces an improved collision system with more intricate damage modeling. Players can engage in a new career mode where they accumulate funds to enhance their vehicles. The game offers 25 distinct tracks, including three bowls and three rooftop levels set on skyscrapers, alongside a roster of 24 cars. The Skyscraper mode challenges players to participate in demolition derbies atop towers, focusing on forcing rivals off the platforms.
Development and release
In December 1998, IGN confirmed that a new entry in the series was actively being developed. By May 1999, Psygnosis officially announced the project under the working title Destruction Derby 3. Development responsibilities transitioned from Reflections Interactive—creators of earlier installments—after their partnership with Psygnosis ended due to Reflections' acquisition by GT Interactive. Subsequently, some ex-Reflections staff joined Accolade (later acquired by Infogrames) and created a competing game titled Demolition Racer.
Initially planned for a spring 2000 launch, early previews showcased a more colorful visual style and vehicle designs reminiscent of Destruction Derby 2, differing from the final version. In North America, publishing rights were secured by Midway Games. The title was later re-released as part of the PlayStation Platinum Range on 15 February 2002.
Reception
According to review aggregator Metacritic, the game garnered mixed or average evaluations. Chet Barber from NextGen remarked that it remained largely unchanged from previous entries but introduced some new issues. Meanwhile, Doug Perry of IGN expressed that having extensively played both previous titles, he found this version to be superior and more balanced in many aspects. He emphasized that although it carries the series name, Destruction Derby Raw differs notably in its presentation, feel, and gameplay mechanics.