The online component is every bit as large and important as the main RSGP mode. That is to say, the online experience permeates virtually every aspect of the Ridge Racer experience. From the moment players boot it up, they're online, able to view global stats on the right side of the screen and through a stock market-like ticker on the bottom of the screen. Statistics on this preliminary tracker include a player's global ranking, fame and OBP rankings, as well as total miles driven. Each driver gets their own Ridge State ID card, too, which works a lot like a gamer's Xbox Live profile. It lists everything from global rank and fame, to a player's location and special awards they've earned. These awards include things like "Bounty Hunter", "Winning Streak" and "RSGP Champion." It serves to mention that it's all integrated very well. It really does feel like each driver is part of a living, self-contained world of high-stakes racing.
As far as actual modes, global racers can compete in Global Time Attack, as well as basic ranked matches with friends or anonymous drivers around the world. There's also the option to race cooperatively, which is by far the most enjoyable option. Players can organize nitrous, drifting and slipstreaming strategies via canned messages quickly and effectively. It's not the most advanced chat feature, but it's easy to use and works damn well. It's super rewarding to watch as teammates block rival drivers and slipstream effectively. In addition, developers have promised a slew of downloadable events, known as UFRA Special Events, that pit real drivers against each other. There's no way to test this feature, however, since no events exist at the time of this writing. Still, the available Rank Browser, online modes and overall connectivity throughout the entire Ridge Racer 7 experience is impressive.
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