IGS, the Taiwan-based arcade developer, has started exploring Western interest in Hyper Cross, a snowmobile racing game first revealed the previous year. The title appeared through Chinese manufacturer Baohui’s website and YouTube channel, but it was not shown at IAAPA 2022 and had not been publicly linked with a Western arcade operator.
A recent test appearance now points to Sega Amusements assessing the game for a possible Western release. The evidence comes from a photograph shared by Ted, showing Hyper Cross in an arcade setting.
A second image provides a clearer view of the cabinet. Its most distinctive details are the snowmobile-style seat, complete with skis and visible shock components, reinforcing the machine’s focus on off-road racing. A video also shows the game in use at the 2:25 mark, although the footage is awkwardly cropped because a vertically filmed clip contains a wider gameplay image.
It appears in this video at 2:25.
Hyper Cross is testing at Airport Bowl
The machine is currently being tested at Airport Bowl in West London, a venue Sega has used to trial new arcade releases. Recent games tested there include Crazy Rafting and Storm Rider 2, both of which later reached the Western market.
That history makes the test noteworthy, but it is not confirmation of a full launch. Hyper Cross could still fail testing or remain unreleased. Sega Amusements also has several racing titles in its current line-up, including Drone Racing Genesis and Storm Rider 2. If the new game performs well, its release could be timed to avoid competing directly with those machines.
For operators and collectors following new arcade industry news, the test offers an early look at a potentially distinctive racing cabinet. Its snowmobile controls and seat design could help it stand apart from more conventional driving machines, but availability and launch timing remain undecided.
What the test means for arcade fans
Hyper Cross may eventually join the Western arcade market, possibly later in the year if testing goes well. For now, it remains an evaluation unit rather than a confirmed production release. Readers comparing dedicated cabinets can explore RETROCADE’s racing arcade machines, while those planning a home installation may benefit from the arcade machine buying guide.
Would a snowmobile racing cabinet earn a place in your local arcade or home collection?
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