Let's Drift!
We have an important update regarding the release of JDM: Rise of the Scorpion. After thorough consideration and with a heavy heart, we have decided to postpone the release of the prologue to ensure the highest quality and best possible player experience for the free to play launch of the game. The new release date for the prologue is now set for August 8, 2024.
New gameplay and trailer
We present the first official gameplay from the JDM prologue, through which you will see the new features and elements introduced since the end of the demo.
About JDM: Rise of the Scorpion
The upcoming prologue is a game introducing the narrative aspect of JDM: Japanese Drift Master. Players will discover the story of Hatori Hasashi and his way of becoming the titular 'Scorpion'. An exemplary student and a son of a traditional Japanese family, he brings his pride and arrogance to the racetrack, where various rivals await.
New feature - smartphone
Since releasing the demo, we've been working to incorporate your feedback and add some exciting new features. We want to take time to polish these additions and ensure everything runs smoothly.
One of the new features is a multifunctional smartphone that you can use in the open world. While the smartphone is active, the player can select one of its many available functions, for example, you can view messages from NPCs, check the status of an active mission and review previously completed missions, change your wallpaper, and much more.
New events
Face AI opponents on the track in various events.
- Drift Race - get as many points as you can drifting through tight turns and corners,
- Drift Battle - chase and be chased, see what distance you can put between two cars,
- Grip Race - speed up and be the first to cross the finish line.
World of JDM
The story of JDM: Japanese Drift Master takes place in a fictional Japanese prefecture, Guntama. This area is inspired by the mountainous region of Honshu. Players who are familiar with Japan's famous drifting routes will find many resemblances to the real world.
Placing racetracks and areas close together that are far apart in reality, allowed us to create a dynamic and diverse open map. In JDM: Rise of the Scorpion, players will see only a part of the world we prepared for the full version of JDM: Japanese Drift Master.
Storytelling and characters
Players will experience a racing game focused on story and unique narration, without using typical cutscenes. Instead, hand-drawn manga pages featuring the protagonists will bring the characters to life.
However, this remains a game about racing. Drift and grip events featured throughout the playthrough will drive the heroes' story forward. In addition to Hatori, players will meet an ensemble of side characters who will play important roles in the rise of the Scorpion.
- Aoi Ishida is a girl from a traditional family who has known Hatori since they were children. When they start dating, she supports him in every way she can, especially on the track.
- Ayumi Kurama is a rich girl raised by a single father who fulfills her every financial whim. She is successful in everything she does, including drifting. However, if victory is at stake, her friendship with Hatori may be at risk.
- Satoru Hayashi very quickly becomes Scorpion's main rival. He is cheerful and reckless, but his family is poor, so he does not feel like a part of his school. Satoru's car belonged to his uncle, a famous drifter.
- Kaori Kato is Aoi's best friend. This artistic girl works at a nearby paint shop. Independent and progressive, she always supports Aoi, even if she believes Hatori isn't a good boyfriend.
Test new cars
Several other new cars can be tested at the Car Dealer. Get behind the wheel of a new car, fast like a scorpion's attack. Gradually unlock the full potential of your vehicle with upgrades. Test its capabilities by racing against other racers through the city's narrow streets and the mountains' winding roads.
Uncover new locations
The open world map of the upcoming prologue will be enhanced by previously unseen interesting areas and challenging roads.
- Drive back to the winding mountain roads around Haikama Lake, known from the JDM: Japanese Drift Master demo version. See how the area feels in this extraordinary racing experience.
- Take the route through Tengai Forest. It provides an ideal environment to practice and refine your driving skills. Take challenging turns and corners and learn how testing drift can be.
