Namco Bandai games announced it is launching the Ridge Racer franchise into the realm of free-to-play. The game, titled Ridge Racer Driftopia, will release later in 2013 for PS3 and PC.

“At Namco Bandai Games we are committed to embracing new business models alongside the still vital traditional retail sector,” said Olivier Comte, Senior Vice President, Namco Bandai Games Europe. “Free-to-play is playing an increasingly important role, so it’s very exciting to be bringing one of our most successful franchises to the free-to-play space for everyone to enjoy.”