GP Rider

Description

GP Rider is a conversion of the 1990 arcade game created by Sega AM2 under the supervision of Yu Suzuki. Unlike the arcade original, which was known for its motion cabinet and motorcycle handlebars, the Master System version focuses on home-friendly championship racing while retaining the same Grand Prix theme. Races are viewed from behind the rider and take place on a variety of international circuits.

A notable feature is the game’s permanent split-screen presentation, even in single-player mode. When no second player is present, the upper screen is occupied by a computer-controlled rival named Wayne, whose performance varies from race to race rather than following a fixed pattern. Players can choose between Arcade, Tournament, and Grand Prix modes, with the latter covering all fifteen championship tracks. Bike configuration options include manual or automatic gears, gearing ratios, tyre selection, and engine settings that trade fuel economy for increased speed. Weather conditions can also affect race strategy and performance.

The Master System version received mixed reception, arriving during the sunset of the 8-bit generation. Reviewers generally praised the extensive championship structure, two-player split-screen mode, and the unusual amount of setup customisation for an 8-bit racer. However, criticism was directed at the basic graphics, limited sense of speed, weak audio, repetitive tracks, and relatively dry gameplay. Nonetheless, the game is retrospectively one of the Master System’s more ambitious attempts at simulating professional motorcycle racing and not a straightforward arcade racer.