Computer racing games are one of the most popular video game genres, and they have been one of the main revenue generators for many game developers. The genre has greatly evolved throughout the years from cartoonish top-view sprites to highly realistic driving simulators. Racing wouldn’t be such a successful gaming genre without the games that shaped it. In this list, we take a look at the ten most outstanding games that helped mold the racing genre into what it is today.

10. Road Fighter (Konami, 1991, NES)

This is a racing classic that best represents the video game industry of the early 1990s, when the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) console was king. The first car racing title created by game company Konami, “Road Fighter” was released in 1991 as a beefed-up NES version of the original arcade game that came out in 1984. The NES “Road Fighter” version uses a top-down view similar to the arcade version, but with better graphics, speed, and controls. If you spent some part of your childhood playing video games during the early 90s, this title will definitely bring some nostalgic bliss.

 

9. WipEout XL (SCEE, 1996, Playstation)

Also called “WipEout 2097” in Europe, “WipEout XL” may not be the first game in the influential series, but it’s one of the best games to illustrate the power of the Sony Playstation console. The game differs from other racing games because of its vehicles. The game series has a futuristic setting, and instead of cars, you race with anti-gravity vehicles, firing projectiles at each other. The game improved upon the original “WipEout” with firmer controls, superior track designs, better graphics, and a wide array of new weapons. It also raised the number of vehicles to twelve from the previous four, and features impressive tunes from “Underworld”, “Prodigy”, and “The Chemical Brothers”.

 

8. Test Drive Le Mans (Atari, 2000, Dreamcast)

Based on the world-famous 24-hour iron man racing event held annually in the French city of Le Mans, this racing simulator from Atari is arguably one of the finest racing titles to spawn from Sega’s final console. Playstation and PC versions of “Test Drive Le Mans” also exist, but they are not of the same quality as the definitive Dreamcast version. Many game critics have said that this game is one of the most realistic car racing simulations up to that time. It’s most commended feature is the main Le Mans mode, which is a grueling but highly-rewarding 24-hour racing phenomenon.

 

7. Burnout 3: Takedown (EA/Criterion, 2004, Xbox)

The Burnout series practically redefined racing games as we know it. Instead of settling on realistic, simulation-type driving, Criterion took on a different route: they simply made their cars faster and more destructible. The result was a superb racing game that doubles as a thrashing toy. Add some state-of-the-art graphics and visual effects, and a little of EA’s marketing prowess, and you’ve got a gaming classic. “Burnout 3: Takedown” is the peak of this development, a game that not only brought the series into the mainstream, but also sparked interest in fresh racing ideas among developers.

 

6. Daytona USA (Sega, 1995, Arcade)

Who does not know this arcade staple from game giant Sega and developer Yu Suzuki? “Daytona USA” practically dominated the arcade racing market when it was released in 1995, and even today you can still spot a few of these coin-ops still working. The game edged out its rivals with many enhancements, like better controls, greater speed, and catchy tunes, as well as other memorable features like the legendary power slide that everyone uses (and exploits), and that bizarre cheat where you get to control a horse.

 

5. Pole Position (Nintendo, 1982, Atari 8-bit)

This classic racing game was developed by Namco, the creators of “Pac-Man”. It featured a variety of innovations. Pole Position popularized the rear-view racer format, where the car is viewed from the rear and not from above. It was also one of the first games to include product placements within the game, a routine now heavily exploited. The game is also well-known for the television commercial that promoted it, which featured a family violently taken out of their car and thrust behind the wheel of one of the game’s racers.

 

 

4. Wave Race 64 (Nintendo, 1996, Nintendo 64)

“Wave Race 64” has the innovation, creativity and technological capacity to make us rethink racing games. This racing game doesn’t involve cars; it doesn’t even use roads. “Wave Race 64” is a jet ski racing game, and it’s full of unique, watery surprises. The water physics are nothing short of remarkable, the waves affect your performance, and you can use wave crests and tides to your advantage. Ramps, buoys, landmarks and Jet Ski tricks add up to the gaming experience. There is also a code that summoned a dolphin within the game, but that’s for you to find out. If you need a summer holiday without leaving the sofa, this game’s for you.

 

3. Gran Trak 10 (Atari, 1974, Arcade)

This arcade racing game was included in this list not because of advanced graphics, great controls or unequaled game-play, but because “Gran Trak 10” is the first computer racing game ever released. This game started the genre of racing video games. Aside from being the first racing game, this racing game pioneer is also the first arcade game to use ROM, which allowed characters on-screen to be defined beyond simple white points.

2. Super Mario Kart (Nintendo, 1992, SNES)

The appeal of video games’ favorite Italian plumber doesn’t end in the platformers and adventure games; you know that once Nintendo launches a game with Mario starring on it, it’s bound to be a hit. “Super Mario Kart” is of no exception, but don’t blame it solely on Mario’s charisma. The game-play of this Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) title is fantastic. Racing on a track while firing missiles at your rivals is quite satisfying, doing it while controlling a Mario Bros. cast member is just plain genius. Put in a bunch of racing modes and other mini games and you’ve got a classic.

 

1. Gran Turismo (Polyphony Digital, 1997, Playstation)

“Gran Turismo” is, by far, the most influential and innovative racing game series for any platform. The Playstation version of “Gran Turismo” started it all; it is the highest-selling game of all time for the console (with ten million copies sold as of 2007). Since then the series has produced four titles, six additional releases, and several simulator wheels. Another installment is set to be launched on the PS3. The great appeal of “Gran Turismo” is attributed to its high level of realism, large collection of vehicles, high focus on to detail, and extensive tuning options. For many hardcore video game racers, “Gran Turismo” is the quintessential racing simulator.

 

 

(Those who live the thrill and exhilaration of racing games will definitely love the the classic excitement offered by the Top Ten Best PC Games Ever, the Top Video Games of All Time and the Most Popular Online Games of 2007).