After the beta version of Wipeout appeared in the cult film Hackers, Sony expressed interest in Psygnosis on the basis of the "impressive work" they had produced with 3D graphics.[1] In September 1995, Sony purchased the Liverpool-based company outright.[61] Subsequent development of Wipeout 2097 spanned seven months, and a nightclub tour in conjunction with Red Bull was set up in order to help advertise the game.[3][62] The game's art, in-game branding, and packaging were made by Sheffield-based The Designers Republic.[2]