GRIP: Combat Racing is an action indie racing title for PC that blends high-speed anti-gravity and wheeled vehicles with combat elements. The Artifex Car Pack expands the roster by introducing three new vehicles from a fresh manufacturer, each drawn from repurposed dogfighting spacecraft and tuned for combat racing. These additions slot into the existing class system and give players new options across different playstyles without altering core rules.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on racing at extreme speeds while using weapons and powerups to disrupt rivals. Vehicles handle a mix of grounded and hovering physics, rewarding precise control during tight turns and aerial maneuvers. The Artifex pack contributes the Titan in the tank class for heavier durability and impact potential, the Fury in the aggressor class for balanced offense, and the Atom in the speedster class for lighter, quicker handling. Each vehicle carries distinct strengths that fit into the broader roster of wheeled and hover machines already available.
Combat integrates directly into progression through the tracks. Players collect and deploy armaments to slow or eliminate competition while maintaining position. The addition of Artifex vehicles broadens tactical choices, as their spacecraft origins translate into unique visual and performance profiles suited to aggressive or evasive approaches.
Game Modes
Multiple modes support varied session lengths and skill focuses. Classic Race serves as the standard format where competitors aim to cross the finish line first while managing powerups. Ultimate Race shifts emphasis toward scoring points through successful attacks on opponents. Elimination Race removes the last-place driver at set intervals, increasing pressure as the field shrinks. Speed Demon disables weapons and powerups entirely for pure speed competition. Time Trial allows solo attempts at the fastest lap times on individual tracks.
Arena mode takes place on dedicated combat arenas where the objective is to destroy opposing vehicles rather than complete laps. Carkour provides single-player obstacle courses that test navigation and timing without direct opponents. Online support includes team-based racing and deathmatch variants alongside local split-screen options for up to four players.
Vehicle Classes and Customization
GRIP organizes vehicles into speedster, aggressor, and tank categories that influence acceleration, durability, and weapon effectiveness. The Artifex additions follow this structure precisely, offering one option per class to maintain balance. No further modifications or loadout changes are required beyond selecting the vehicle itself.
Tracks feature a combination of indoor arenas, outdoor circuits, and vertical layouts that highlight the differences between classes. Artifex vehicles integrate seamlessly into these environments, allowing drivers to experiment with heavier or faster alternatives depending on the mode and track layout.
Is It Worth Playing?
The base experience and Artifex Car Pack appeal most to players who enjoy fast-paced combat racers with a strong emphasis on direct confrontation alongside lap times. Local and online multiplayer options support both casual sessions and competitive matches, while single-player modes like Time Trial and Carkour provide focused practice opportunities. The game includes VR support for those seeking an immersive cockpit view.
Vehicle variety from packs like Artifex encourages repeated playthroughs as drivers test class matchups across the mode list. Those seeking straightforward racing without heavy emphasis on combat may prefer Speed Demon or Time Trial, while fans of vehicular combat will find more engagement in Ultimate Race and Arena. The title remains available for solo or group play on PC with no ongoing seasonal content required.
