Daytona USA returning to arcades

Let’s go away

It’s been 18 years since Daytona USA 2 first hit arcades, but Sega announced yesterday that it’s bringing a new version of the classic racing franchise “screeching into the 21st century.” Daytona 3 Championship USA features the original three courses found in previous titles as well as three new tracks, including an updated recreation of the Daytona International Speedway from which the series takes its name. 

The original Daytona USA and its sequel should be familiar to anyone who frequented an arcade or owned a Dreamcast in the late ’90s, and at the time, they were some of the best-looking racing games on the market. The catchy earworm that played in the arcade version’s attract mode, on the other hand, is responsible for many senseless deaths. The new arcade cabinet’s AI is based on the original game engine, so it should feel similar to the previous titles.

The arcade units will feature 47″ LED monitors and up to eight of the cabinets can be linked for multiplayer races. The new version of Daytona has new cars and game modes, including a built-in camera system that shows pictures of your friends when they pass you (or vice-versa) on your heads-up display. It also has a “Live TV” spectator mode, so that passersby in the arcade can spectate the race more easily.

“At SEGA we have always been passionate about developing the best arcade racing games, it’s part of our DNA, so to have the opportunity to work on this title that truly captures the spirit of the racing scene in Daytona is nothing short of an honor,” said Sega CEO Paul Williams. 

The press release didn’t mention a time frame, but you can expect to see Daytona 3 Championship USA in your local arcade sometime soon. I’m looking forward to getting a rolling start. Sing it with me now. Doot do doot do doot do doot do doot doooo! Daytoooonaaaa!