Developed by Imagineering and published by Absolute Entertainment in 1992, Race America is a unique competitive racing game for the NES. Instead of racing against a ticking clock like many arcade drivers of the era, you compete in intense, head-to-head matches against eight computer-controlled rivals in a cross-country journey from New York to Los Angeles. The game is notable for its dynamic split-screen camera system, which shifts to a wide “helicam” view whenever the cars get close together on the track.
How to Play
Each of the game’s ten legs usually begins with a drag race before opening up to the main highway stretch, and your goal is always to cross the finish line before your rival. In your browser, use the Arrow keys to steer, the Z key (A button) to accelerate, and the X key (B button) to brake. If you are using manual transmission, press Up and Down to shift gears.
Tips
- During the initial drag race section, time your acceleration carefully when the light turns green. Spinning your tires will let your opponent get an early lead.
- Keep a close eye on the RPM gauge when shifting gears. Shifting too late will blow your engine and instantly cost you the race.
- When the camera shifts to the helicopter view, use the wider perspective to aggressively block a trailing rival from passing you.
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