Whether you’re a new driver in Charlotte or a native, there’s one thing we can agree on: we grip our steering wheels a little tighter around I-277’s Exit 3A.
That’s why Charlotte-based developer Mike Ramirez is creating a game about the anxiety-inducing exit near Uptown.
“I know that people see it, it brings a smile to their face,” explained Ramirez. “That’s what I’m going for, but it’s cool to see.”
The game started as a joke between friends and local video game developers, like Ammar Ahmed, who created Crab Volleyball Arcade (which you can play at Super Abari).
“I’m always trying to pull ideas of what would be a fun game,” said Ramirez. “There’s that kind of excitement of going through Exit 3A. Like, it’s exciting sometimes. It’s also scary, but that can translate into a game. So, why not make a game out of something like that?”
The goal of the game is to drive through I-277 while carrying Charlotte-related cargo. For example, in this viral video, you can see the truck carrying cans of Sycamore Brewing’s Mountain Candy.
Try this: Turn your audio up to hear Dave Matthews Band’s “Crash Into Me.”
So far, the game is already grabbing the attention of social media. Some comments include:
- “Are you sure this isn’t just live footage?” — @austin_caldwell19
- “i saw exit 3a and my heart rate went up before the video even started” — @zainislost
Ramirez’ hope for the game is to create an arcade cabinet, and have the game available at Super Abari, or at a local brewery. As for the timeline? Maybe expect to see a finished product by the end of the year.
“I hope I can reach those expectations that people have of it,” shared Ramirez.
What about a phone app? We asked and it’s not off the table. Happy driving, Charlotte.
