As another concept for the PS3, Teramoto mentioned the system's network connectivity, hinting that Sony has indeed gotten its online act in gear for the PS3.
Can Ridge Racer 7 look better than last year's 360 game? (Pictured)
The three developers didn't get too specific about what we can expect from RR7. Teramoto stated that thanks to the PS3's power, that even with the improved graphics the system still has juice to spare (which will be used for effects to help deliver a better feeling of speed). Teramoto let slip that the game will use Nitrous, a system that was recently featured in the PSP and Xbox 360 games. Okubo addressed the game's sound component briefly by revealing that the game will support 5.1 audio.
Moreover, online seems to be on track to exceed that of Ridge Racer 6. Namco is aiming to support up to 14 players at once. This is the same number as RR6, but Kobayashi believes that adding more users is unnecessary. The team is also planning on new online options that take the game beyond mere competitive play, with Teramoto revealing that something akin to co-op will make it into the game.
Kobayashi added that players will also be able to customize their cars and show them off online. The game will have a massive set of options, with what appears to be at least 200,000 car possibilities. In addition, the racer will possess a strong Offline component as well. The main mode of play will offer more than 160 races and Namco is working on time attack and single race modes too.