Independent developer Black Jacket Studios announce their first title, "Metal Drift" to be released on PC in the first half of 2009. Metal Drift is a team-based online vehicular combat game featuring drift-tanks that battle it out in a futuristic arena setting.

"There are a lot of things that come together to make Metal Drift a very different game", said Brian Ramage, President of Black Jacket Studios. "It’s got the speed of a racing game combined with the first person view of a shooter, and the cockpit of a jet fighter sim. We’re emphasizing an immersive experience in a post-cyberpunk environment. I haven’t seen an arena combat game that really brings the player into it, so they feel the excitement of the crowd and the grandeur of a professional sport. We’re very excited to bring this kind of experience to life."

Metal Drift features 56 different tank configurations with various weapon and upgrade selections to choose from. In addition, the drift-tanks have a unique energy system that allows the pilot to direct acquired energy into a speed boost or to power up weapons for extra damage.

The game also features 5 different arenas, each with their own racing lines and boost tunnels. "The arenas are free-form; you can drive anywhere you want to unlike racing games", said Weston Tracy, co-founder. "But there’s also a racing element there since you are often chasing the ball, or rushing to a key strategic position."