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Sega Reveals OutRun2 SP Conversion Kits
According to Sega Amusements Europe, it is enjoying a 'triple whammy' of success with its OutRun2 series. The company said its original version in twin format became its best selling driver in many years, which led the company to develop an updated version, the critically acclaimed 'Special Tours', first seen at the October Preview last year. This was of course seen in a deluxe 50" cabinet that had the signature F360 rear end. The latest triumph in the story is the success of conversion kits to allow original OutRun2 twins to be upgraded and benefit from the new Special Tours software. Paul Williams at Sega said, "The first production of OutRun2 SP twins sold out on the back of the ATEI and it was evident that operators who had the original twin also wanted the newer version for their estate. Those who didn't get a new twin or add the deluxe to their operation wanted an upgrade kit." The new software adds 15 more courses all with an American theme including many familiar landmarks making a total of 30 in total and more Ferrari's are offered making a grand total of ten of Italy's best. OutRun2 SP also boasts extra handling options and a feature allowing players to mix and match old and new courses to enhance game play. Also to appeal to the older player who may remember the 80's original game, Sega have reintroduced the original soundtrack as part of the background music line up.
Justin Burke who carried out research on the effect of the new software reported, "It is clear that the newer software is adding 70% - 85% to the income. The original game was giving income levels that put the game constantly at the top of most operators' league charts; however, the new software makes sure it stays there." According to Mr Burke, a highly used feature of the game is the 'versus' mode allowing players to compete; he said, "The levels of players using this mode is much higher on the new software than the original and this in part adds to the extra income levels." The conversion kit, unlike many upgrade kits does not just modify the software but with effective use of decals, gives the machine a new look to make the machine stand out from the original twin. The whole change over takes little under one hour and the machine doesn't need to leave site. The upgraded machines like the deluxe counter parts are able to benefit from the Internet ranking site - http://outrun.jp, that is specific to the title.
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