Riptide GP2 icon
Riptide GP2 Remains a Standout Water Racing Experience Years After Launch

by Vector Unit

4.8
IOSRacing Games
This app delivers high-octane hydrojet racing with surprisingly deep customization and multiple gameplay modes. Perfect for both casual players and racing enthusiasts seeking fluid controls and polished visuals. The free-to-play model with split-screen multiplayer makes it accessible for various gaming sessions.

Detailed Review

Vector Unit's Riptide GP2 continues to hold its position as one of the most polished water racing games available on mobile platforms, even years after its initial release. The game places players in control of futuristic hydrojets, racing through dynamic waterways while performing aerial tricks and navigating challenging courses. Its longevity in a crowded market speaks to the quality of execution and consistent player engagement. The core racing mechanics feature tight controls that respond well to tilt or touch inputs, with boost management and trick systems adding strategic depth. Races unfold across multiple environments including city canals, industrial complexes, and tropical lagoons, each with alternate routes and hidden shortcuts. Career mode progresses through increasingly difficult championships, while quick race and time trial options provide immediate gameplay access. Character and hydrojet customization allows visual personalization and performance upgrades, though some premium cosmetic items require either grinding or purchases. During actual gameplay, the experience remains smooth even on older devices, with water physics and environmental interactions creating believable racing conditions. Split-screen multiplayer functions reliably for local competition, while online leaderboards extend replay value. The soundtrack and engine sounds complement the racing without becoming repetitive during extended sessions. Some minor texture pop-in occurs on certain devices during loading sequences, though this doesn't affect gameplay. User feedback consistently highlights the game's nostalgic value and lasting appeal. Reviews indicate many players rediscovered the title years after initial play, with comments frequently mentioning how the core experience remains unchanged and satisfying. Multiple reviewers specifically praise the split-screen functionality as a rare feature in modern mobile racing games. The connection to Vector Unit's Hydro Thunder Hurricane provides additional credibility for racing game enthusiasts seeking similar mechanics on mobile platforms. While the in-app purchase system for currency and cosmetics may frustrate players preferring complete upfront ownership, the free entry point makes Riptide GP2 easily accessible. The visual presentation holds up remarkably well despite its age, though some environmental textures show their vintage compared to recent racing titles. For a free racing game with substantial content and reliable performance, it delivers exceptional value that explains its sustained high ratings across years of iOS updates.

Key Features

  • Split-screen multiplayer mode enabling local competitive races between two players on the same device
  • Deep customization system allowing visual and performance upgrades for both characters and hydrojet vehicles
  • Dynamic water physics creating realistic wave interactions that affect racing lines and jump trajectories
  • Multiple game modes including career championships, time trials, and single race options for varied gameplay
  • Trick system rewarding aerial maneuvers with boost energy that can be deployed for strategic advantages
  • Online leaderboards and ghost races providing competitive motivation beyond the core campaign

Why Users Love It

Polished racing mechanics
Strong nostalgic appeal

Perfect for: Perfect for racing game enthusiasts seeking fluid controls and players who enjoy revisiting polished classic mobile games

Screenshots

Riptide GP2 screenshot 1Riptide GP2 screenshot 2Riptide GP2 screenshot 3Riptide GP2 screenshot 4Riptide GP2 screenshot 5Riptide GP2 screenshot 6

User Reviews

y0u_th0ught99
Oct 9, 2024

one of the only games ive enjoyed for years, this game has been the same since i played it when i was younger, phenomenal graphics and great overall game. best game ever one of the only games ive enjoyed for years, this game has been the same since i played it when i was younger, phenomenal graphics and great overall game.

Joshie12346
Aug 17, 2025

This game does not disappoint. When i was a kid i played this game in the apple store and have been looking for a game like it ever since and now i am able to play it again and i just love it so much. It has great customisable abilities and you can make it as you please. This game is great This game does not disappoint. When i was a kid i played this game in the apple store and have been looking for a game like it ever since and now i am able to play it again and i just love it so much. It has great customisable abilities and you can make it as you please.

SARGDV
Feb 23, 2025

I always wanted to play this game, my mom had to take it away for days because I was so addicted to it I loved it so much but I forgot about the name so when I got my first phone I tried finding the game but could not find it(it was in like 2015 so not a really good search engine) now in 2025 I head the old theme song/background and it instantly brought me to my child hood so I looked and looked for it and I finally found it and I can not stop playing it 10/10 recommend Best childhood game 10/10 recommend I always wanted to play this game, my mom had to take it away for days because I was so addicted to it I loved it so much but I forgot about the name so when I got my first phone I tried finding the game but could not find it(it was in like 2015 so not a really good search engine) now in 2025 I head the old theme song/background and it instantly brought me to my child hood so I looked and looked for it and I finally found it and I can not stop playing it 10/10 recommend

mr_tuby5
Jan 25, 2025

took me forever to realize that these developers also made hydro thunder (hurricane), which is peak gaming. not an actual review took me forever to realize that these developers also made hydro thunder (hurricane), which is peak gaming.

cooldj847
Jan 17, 2025

Oh boy, where do I start? The game has very good graphics, amazing soundtracks, Spilt screen where you can play with your friends, customization for characters and boats, Online play, offline play, challenges, and it’s an free app! This game is 11 year old and in my opinion tops out most of the apps in 2025. This is a must download for all! A MUST TRY APP FOR ALL Oh boy, where do I start? The game has very good graphics, amazing soundtracks, Spilt screen where you can play with your friends, customization for characters and boats, Online play, offline play, challenges, and it’s an free app! This game is 11 year old and in my opinion tops out most of the apps in 2025. This is a must download for all!

App Details

Developer

Vector Unit

Platform

ios

Rating

4.8

Last Updated

10/24/2025