Racing Game History

Driving and racing video games represent one of the first and most popular game genres of all time. The history of the genre starts with gaming machines which step by step transferred to consoles and PCs. Some people think that games of this genre have nothing unusual except driving cars, motorcycles, and riding a bicycle. However, if we plunge into the history of the genre, we will discover unbelievable progress and gradual implementation of many interesting innovations.

Grand Prix, an electro-mechanical arcade by Sega, was released in 1969. It used semi-transparent films and a rear-facing light to illuminate the scene. It featured a steering wheel that moved the player-controlled car. Also, a gas pedal would increase the speed of the rotation of films containing the road and other cars. The player car would slow down when driving over cars, so the goal was to avoid collisions.

In the 1980s one of the most important elements of driving games was invented. Web developers created the radar. It provided a mini-map that displays the road and movement of other players. This element helped players to orient and later it became a feature of other game genres.

In the 1990s Nintendo designed a new driving game subgenre, namely kart racing. These games often had different boosts or items to impede opponents not to let them win unlike regular arcade racing games or driving simulators.

Starting with the 2000s the features of driving games were developed at a fast pace. Improved 3D graphics and large open worlds brought the genre to the new level. Races were held directly within the scope of the open world streets and you could use the newest option to instantly teleport to the start of a race.

At present this genre numbers variety of game types, including arcade style, simulators, scrollers, control of tanks, helicopters, aircrafts and other unusual transport means. Undoubtedly, it is one game genre that continues with active development. In the future, we will have a lot of new racing and driving game features.

Recommended Driving and Racing Games

• Slot Car Racing
• City Stunts
• Turbo Drift
• Uphill Bus Simulator 3D
• Stunt Racers Extreme