Game Details
| Size | 51 MB |
| Region | Japan |
| Genre | Racing |
| Format | 7z / ISO |
| Year | July 10, 2008 |
| Console | PSP |
Shinseiki GPX Cyber Formula VS (2008) is a high-speed racing title based on the beloved 90s anime series Future GPX Cyber Formula. Unlike traditional racers, this game captures the “near-future” aesthetic of the show, where cars are equipped with Artificial Intelligence (Cyber Systems) and can transform their chassis mid-race to reach speeds exceeding 600 km/h.
The Plot / Premise: The Pinnacle of Racing
Set in the year 2023 and beyond, the world of motor sports has been revolutionized by “Cyber Formula,” where cars are assisted by sophisticated AI.
-
The Protagonist: You primarily follow Hayato Kazami, a young driver who accidentally becomes the only person synced to the advanced AI “Asurada.”
-
The Conflict: You race against legendary rivals like Bleed Kaga and Karl Lichter von Randoll in a global Grand Prix. The story in the PSP version covers various arcs from the TV series and the OVA sequels (11, ZERO, SAGA, and SIN).
-
The Goal: Master the “Zero Realm” (a state of hyper-awareness) and utilize your machine’s transformations to win the World Championship.
The Big Change: Tactical Transformations
The core mechanic that separates this from Wipeout or F-Zero is the Shifting System. You aren’t just driving; you are managing your car’s physical state:
-
Circuit Mode: The standard balanced mode for corners and general racing.
-
Aero Mode: The car’s body flattens and streamlines for maximum top speed on straightaways.
-
Boost / Spiral Boost: Triggering the “Boost Pods” provides a massive burst of speed, accompanied by the iconic anime sound effects and visual “heat haze” transitions.
Key Features
-
Massive Roster: Includes over 25 playable drivers and their signature machines (Asurada, Stealth Jaguar, Issuxark, etc.) from across the entire anime timeline.
-
Customization: You can upgrade your Cyber System’s AI to improve auto-recovery, cornering assistance, and boost duration.
-
7-Point Transformation: High-end machines like the v-Asurada can shift into multiple forms, including “Aero Mode” and “Lifting Turn” capabilities.
-
Ad-Hoc Multiplayer: Supports 2-player wireless battles, allowing you to recreate the intense 1-on-1 duels from the show’s finale.
Short Review: Anime Speed in Your Pocket
The Good
-
Incredible Sense of Speed: When you trigger the Boost, the screen blurs and the FOV widens, perfectly capturing the “supersonic” feeling of the anime.
-
Authentic Presentation: Features the original voice actors from the anime and the iconic soundtrack, making it a “playable episode” for long-time fans.
-
Technical Depth: It’s not just about holding the gas; you have to manage your boost pressure and engine temperature, adding a “sim-lite” layer to the arcade action.
The Bad
-
Steep Learning Curve: Maneuvering at 600 km/h is difficult. The AI is punishing, and hitting a wall usually means instant failure in higher-tier races.
-
Repetitive Tracks: While the cars are detailed, many of the tracks feel a bit “empty” and lack the environmental detail of other PSP racers like Ridge Racer.
-
Language Barrier: Navigating the upgrade menus and the “Story Mode” visual novel segments can be difficult without a translation guide.

