Summary

• Release Year: 1982
• Genres: Arcade, Racing, Sport
• Platforms: Arcade, Atari 2600, Atari 5200, Atari 8-bit, BBC Microcomputer System, Commodore C64/128/MAX, Commodore VIC-20, DOS, Intellivision, Texas Instruments TI-99, Vectrex, ZX Spectrum
• Developers: Namco
• Publishers: Atari, GCE, INTV Corporation, Polyvox, Thunder Mountain

Pole Position (1982): The Arcade Racing Game That Revolutionized the Genre

Introduction

Pole Position is a groundbreaking arcade racing game released in 1982 by Namco. It was developed by a team led by Toru Iwatani, who is also known for creating the iconic Pac-Man. Pole Position revolutionized the racing game genre with its rear perspective camera view, realistic track designs, and intense gameplay.

Gameplay

Pole Position is a Formula One racing game where players compete against seven other cars on a single track. The objective is to qualify for the pole position, which gives the player the advantage of starting the race in first place. To qualify, players must complete a qualifying lap within a certain time limit.

The game features a unique rear perspective camera view, which gives players a realistic sense of speed and immersion. The track is also designed based on the real-life Fuji Speedway in Japan, which adds to the realism of the game.

Pole Position’s gameplay is simple but addictive. Players control their car using a steering wheel and two pedals (accelerator and brake). The game features realistic physics, which makes it challenging to control the car at high speeds. Players must carefully manage their speed and braking to avoid crashing.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Pole Position’s graphics were cutting-edge. The game features detailed sprites and smooth scrolling, which creates a sense of speed and realism. The track is also well-designed, with various curves, straightaways, and obstacles.

The game’s sound effects are also impressive. The roar of the engines and the screech of the tires add to the excitement of the gameplay.

Legacy

Pole Position was a huge success in arcades around the world. It was one of the first racing games to feature a rear perspective camera view and realistic track designs, which set a new standard for the genre. The game also popularized the use of qualifying laps and time limits, which became staples of future racing games.

Pole Position has been ported to numerous home consoles and computers over the years. It has also been included in several retro game compilations. The game remains popular today, and it is considered one of the greatest racing games of all time.

Cultural Impact

Pole Position had a significant impact on popular culture. The game’s iconic rear perspective camera view and realistic track designs became the standard for future racing games. The game also helped to popularize Formula One racing around the world.

Pole Position has been featured in numerous films and television shows. It has also been referenced in popular music and other forms of media.

Conclusion

Pole Position is a landmark racing game that revolutionized the genre. Its rear perspective camera view, realistic track designs, and intense gameplay set a new standard for racing games. The game remains popular today, and it is considered one of the greatest racing games of all time.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots