Summary
- Release Year: 1990
- Genres: Racing, Simulator
- Platforms: Amiga, Arcade, Atari ST/STE, DOS, Game Boy, Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
- Developers: Atari Games
- Publishers: Atari Games, Domark Software, Tengen, THQ
Race Drivin’ (1990): The Arcade Racing Game That Pushed the Boundaries
Race Drivin’ is a groundbreaking arcade racing game that was released in 1990. It was developed by Atari Games and was the sequel to the popular arcade game Hard Drivin’. Race Drivin’ was one of the first arcade racing games to feature realistic graphics and physics, and it quickly became a favorite among gamers.
Gameplay
Race Drivin’ is a single-player racing game in which the player must complete laps around a race track before a timer expires. The player’s car is equipped with a turbo boost that can be used to increase speed for a limited time. There are several checkpoints around the track which increase the player’s time as they pass.
The game features four different race tracks:
- Daytona International Speedway
- Laguna Seca Raceway
- Monza Circuit
- Silverstone Circuit
Each track has its own unique challenges, and the player must learn the track layout in order to succeed.
Graphics and Physics
Race Drivin’ was one of the first arcade racing games to feature realistic graphics and physics. The game’s cars and tracks were rendered in 3D, and the physics engine was designed to simulate real-world racing conditions. This resulted in a game that was both visually impressive and challenging to play.
The game’s graphics were particularly impressive for the time. The cars were rendered with a high level of detail, and the tracks were realistic and immersive. The game also featured a variety of weather effects, such as rain and fog, which added to the realism.
The game’s physics engine was also very realistic. The cars handled realistically, and the player had to be careful not to spin out or crash. The game also featured a variety of different car setups, which allowed the player to customize their car to suit their driving style.
Legacy
Race Drivin’ was a critical and commercial success. It was one of the most popular arcade games of the early 1990s, and it helped to popularize the racing game genre. The game was also ported to several home consoles, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System and the Sega Genesis.
Race Drivin’ is still considered to be one of the best arcade racing games of all time. It was a groundbreaking game that pushed the boundaries of graphics and realism, and it helped to define the racing game genre.
Review
Race Drivin’ is a classic arcade racing game that still holds up today. The graphics are impressive, the physics are realistic, and the gameplay is challenging and rewarding. If you’re a fan of racing games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Race Drivin’.
Score: 8.5/10
Pros:
- Realistic graphics and physics
- Challenging and rewarding gameplay
- Variety of tracks and cars
Cons:
- Can be difficult for beginners
- Limited replay value
Review Score
8.5/10