racing game

A racing game is an electronic game where players control vehicles, typically in races or combat. The genre originated with arcade hits like Pole Position (1982) and Final Lap (1987), which featured Formula 1 cars and multiplayer options. As technology advanced with 32-bit arcade machines, games like Virtua Racing and Ridge Racer offered more realistic driving.

Racing games quickly became popular on home consoles, with series like Nintendo's Mario Kart launching in 1992. The introduction of 32-bit home systems, such as the Sega Saturn and Sony PlayStation, saw the rise of highly realistic racing titles like Need for Speed and Gran Turismo. Some games also incorporate combat elements, such as Spy Hunter, or feature prominent driving sequences within broader genres, like Grand Theft Auto.