Japanese developer Genki has announced a release date for their new Tokyo Xtreme Racer, the first new game in the series in 18 years.

Their new Tokyo Xtreme Racer is set to launch via early access for Windows PC (via Steam) on January 23rd worldwide. Fans can expect the game to remain in early access for up to fourth months.

The early access build of the game will include the main story playable up to roughly the halfway mark, with a focus on SP battle and car tuning features. Players can gain skills, a new feature to the franchise. In total there will be 50 playable cars and over 180 kilometers of the Shuto Expressway to race on. 

The full release of Tokyo Xtreme Racer will include more storylines, vehicles, and more rival characters, as well as the focus on squashing bugs and potential issues or improvements before the full release of the game. The game already has over 200 rival characters, each with their own unique storyline.

Here’s a rundown on the new game, plus some new screenshots:

“Tokyo Xtreme Racer” is a racing game set in a sealed-off future Tokyo, where you compete for the fastest speed in your customized cars on the highways that weave through the city, aiming to reach the top.

Drive real cars on meticulously recreated courses, compete against powerful rivals, slip through other cars, and engage in spirit-wracking battles.

This is a series with unparalleled appeal.

Features

• What is SP Battle (Spirit Point Battle) – Unlike regular racing games, the SP Battle is a unique battle feature based Spirit Points, a numeric value that quantifies the willpower of drivers. Not only is your speed tested, master the mind games and break your opponent’s resolve.
• Blaze through the midnight Shuto Expressway – With the Tokyo Expressway faithfully reproduced, the complex twists and dramatic elevation changes deliver an adrenaline-pumping racing experience that’s as close to the real thing as it gets.
• Countless rivals with mysterious charm – The race begins with a headlight flash as you face off against rivals with distinctive cars and bold driving styles.