Why Renegade Kid is creating a free-style scooter game

Renegade Kid's latest addition to its growing list of projects, Razor Global Domination Pro Tour, is a far cry from games like Mutant Mudds or Moon Chronicles. But its upcoming free-style scooter game will fit right into the developer's portfolio, according to co-founder Jools Watsham.

The team enjoys playing different games, Watsham said, and that spirit naturally fits with its desire to work on different games. Razor Global Domination Pro Tour, announced last month, takes players to skate parks and jam sessions worldwide. In order to perform better tricks, players will upgrade their scooters and customize their gear. Speaking with Polygon via email, Watsham said that it's not "too dissimilar" from the developer's past ATV games.

"Much like ATV Wild Ride 3D, our focus is on a fun arcade gaming experience," Watsham said. "There's something pure about a game that focuses on a few core elements and explores them in depth."

"We approach it from our own perspective first and design a game that we think is cool."

The first ATV Wild Ride was released for Nintendo DS in 2011. In 2013, Renegade Kid launched ATV Wild Ride 3D for the Nintendo 3DS. The game featured racing, freestyling and online matches. Razor Global Domination Pro Tour will draw influence from franchises such as Tony Hawk, the developer said, but will still feel "like a cousin" to ATV Wild Ride 3D.

"As with all of our original games, we approach it from our own perspective first and design a game that we think is cool," Watsham said.

"Once we had the design established for the Razor game we presented it to the Razor team for their approval and feedback. Fortunately, they are very cool, excited and passionate about the game, and loved everything about our proposal. So, we're rolling with a sense of freedom in terms of the gameplay experience — which is a key element in producing a good game with a license."

Razor Global Domination Pro Tour marks the developer's jump primarily from handheld development to next-gen consoles; the game is slated for launch on PlayStation 4, Wii U and Xbox One next year. Although the Deluxe edition of Mutant Mudds was ported to PlayStation 3 and Wii U, Watsham said developing specifically for consoles was "a very different experience."

"Home consoles offer a lot of power."

"Home consoles offer a lot of power, which is exciting to play with," Watsham said. "... We have a deep love for handhelds, and I don't think that will ever change, but we have always wanted to spread our wings a bit and develop some titles for home consoles."

Late last year, Renegade Kid teased two upcoming games — one of which was later revealed as Moon Chronicles. According to Watsham, Razor Global Domination Pro Tour is not the second project.

"The other game hinted at in that post is still yet to be announced," Watsham said. "It is a little ways off."