The PlayStation 1 boasts an extraordinary collection of video games, and several of its franchises continue to thrive in the present day. Titles such as Tomb Raider and Metal Gear Solid remain as current and engaging as they were originally.
As a gaming enthusiast, I’ve discovered some fantastic titles that may not have received as much attention as big names like Gran Turismo, especially when it comes to virtual reality experiences with PSVR2. While we’re all familiar with classics such as Wipeout and Ridge Racer, there are many overlooked gems out there. Interestingly, these games aren’t confined solely to racing genres.
If you’re seeking a nostalgic journey or fancy trying some lesser-known driving games, here are ten gems that I highly recommend giving a spin. I’m a collector of PS1 games and have played every one of these. Please note that there may be other favorites I’ve overlooked as this list features the ones that left the strongest impression on me!
10. Rally De Europe
The Power Of Imports
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Developer | Prism Arts |
| Genre | Arcade / Rally |
| Release Date | April 2000 |
Rally De Europe is a superb PS1 racer that feels similar to Sega Rally in many ways.
On the PlayStation 1, Colin McRae Rally reigned supreme as the uncontested champion in off-road racing, however, it’s a game that demands a more serious approach, which might not be suitable for everyone. In contrast, Rally De Europe caters to the arcade gaming crowd by allowing you to race against other cars rather than merely competing against the clock.
Today, the steering remains reliable, allowing for smooth navigation through sharp turns with a bit of practice. It’s worth noting that the quality of the road surfaces can make a difference, as does the choice of tracks and cars, which are generally good in this case.
The Rally de Europe is an incredibly challenging race where making even a single error often results in losing a position on the podium. Yet, it’s a remarkable event that rarely gets the attention it deserves from motorsports enthusiasts.
9. Tank Racer
Why Go Around When You Can Go Through?
The game, Tank Racer, surpasses expectations remarkably, boasting user-friendly controls and breakable surroundings.
In this instance, Glass Ghost took a bold approach with an arcade-style racing game, making it an enjoyable experience. The tanks are agile and quick to maneuver, allowing you to demolish and obliterate numerous objects along the way. Remarkably, any obstacles you damage remain broken throughout the laps, causing the tracks to subtly change as the race unfolds.
In this setup, you can fire from your tank, while the shoulder buttons steer the turret for aiming. This interface is immediately intuitive and offers a unique twist to combat racing as compared to games such as Wipeout or Crash Team Racing.
8. Mobil 1 Rally Championship
Move Over, Dirt Rally
While delving into this list, I must admit that I momentarily overlooked the sheer number of Rally games available on the PS1. However, the exceptional quality of Mobil 1 Rally Championship makes it hard to turn down, and it serves as an excellent substitute for Colin Mccrae Rally.
Mobil 1 presents an authentic feel with intricate car designs and realistic engine noises. It’s fascinating how cars change their sound and feel as they traverse different terrains, adding a delightful layer of realism.
The menus are narrated, which is a notable addition as the commentator reels off Rally facts.
What makes these courses stand out is that they are quite extended and are said to be based on actual racing circuits. Similar to other games in this collection, Mobil 1 proves to be extremely challenging, requiring you to strictly adhere to the guidance of your co-driver.
7. Total Drivin
An Ocean Of Content
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Developer | Eutechnyx |
| Genre | Mixed Racing |
| Release Date | October 1998 |
Total Drivin ranks high among my preferred games, and it’s one I’ve spent a considerable amount of time playing on this particular system.
In Total Drivin, you’re presented with an abundance of driving options across six distinct nations. Each country offers various tracks, each paired with a specific vehicle type. Take, for instance, Scotland where one track might find you behind the wheel of a rally car, while another could have you cruising in a sporty model.
You have a variety of teams to select, and although I’m a big fan of Roberts, Xu truly shines with his striking yellow and black style.
The game has some flaws, like how collisions usually don’t go well for you, allowing your opponent to swiftly escape. However, the unlocking of new levels serves as a compelling reason to continue playing, and the strange techno music adds to its charm.
6. Motorhead
Racing In The Future
When recalling futuristic racers on the PlayStation 1, you might remember games like “Rollcage” or “Wipeout XL/2097”, two fantastic creations by Psygnosis. While these are outstanding choices to enhance your PS1 collection, there’s another game worth considering.
Motorhead is a gritty, atmospheric racing game that offers heavy-handed automobiles and stunning graphics for the console. The cars handle wonderfully, and I’m completely captivated by the visual style. Moreover, the game boasts an excellent electronic soundtrack to complement its mood.
Interestingly, you have the choice between four adversaries or seven, but the higher number comes with a lower frame rate. If you plan on playing Motorhead, I’d recommend picking the higher frame rate option.
5. Vanishing Point
Wait, Is That A TVR?!
If you’re looking to enjoy a PlayStation 1 game featuring authentic cars, many players would opt for Gran Turismo or Need for Speed. However, there’s another great choice to consider – Vanishing Point!
As a dedicated gaming enthusiast, I must say that “Vanishing Point” is an impressive street racing title, boasting respectable visuals and physics. The vehicles may have a tendency to oversteer, but mastering the art of precise throttle management can definitely keep them on track!
The assortment of cars here is quite unusual, yet I find it appealing because there’s such variety. Starting with a Ford Explorer, the vehicles on display range from the luxurious Aston Martin DB7 to the powerful Dodge Viper.
The collection of automobiles here is quite eclectic, and I appreciate it because there’s something for everyone. Beginning with a Ford Explorer, you can find yourself riding in an Aston Martin DB7 or even a Dodge Viper as you explore further.
As a racing enthusiast, I can’t help but be thrilled by the prospect of a fantastic variety of tracks that await me. Ranging from wide-open desert paths to narrow, heart-pounding urban streets, there’s something for everyone in this competition!
4. Racing Lagoon
The ‘Car’ PG You Never Heard Of
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Developer | Square |
| Genre | RPG/ Street Racing |
| Release Date | June 1999 |
Back in the days when the PlayStation 1 was at its peak, I stumbled upon a game called Racing Lagoon much later. It’s amazing to me that such a game even exists!
Racing Lagoon stands out from other console racers primarily because of its strong narrative focus. What’s more surprising is that this game was developed by none other than Square, known for creating epic RPGs like Final Fantasy VII, VIII, and IX.
As Sho, a rising street racer who’s drawn into the thrilling world of racing with drivers far superior to himself, you take control. Though the game is originally in Japanese, English translations are available, making it an appealing choice for fans of series like Initial D, Wangan Midnight, or Tokyo Xtreme Racer.
3. N.GEN Racing
Take To The Skies
The genre-specific game, “Racing by N.”, stands out as remarkably distinct among these selections, as it transports the allure of arcade-style racing into the skies.
As a gamer, I’m swapping my favorite racing game for an exhilarating new experience: soaring through the skies instead of zooming down the road! Just like before, there are gates scattered throughout each course that give me a speed boost. But this time, I can engage in dogfights with my opponents, aiming and firing with precision. The cockpit view puts me right in the heart of the action, making it feel like playing Ace Combat on an adrenaline rush!
Frankly, I find N.GEN Racing quite challenging, and it might seem like I’m one of the least skilled players globally. Regardless of my attempts to adapt, I just can’t get a grasp on the controls, finding them overly sensitive. But I understand that the issue lies with me, not the game itself.
Even so, it’s tough not to admire this unique spin on the racing genre, as the vertical dimension introduces an additional aspect to the gameplay that isn’t found anywhere else.
2. TNN Motorsports Hardcore 4X4
Flat Roads Are Overrated
In simpler terms, “Hardcore 4X4” can be described as a tough off-road racing game, where you’ll need to compete not only against other racers but also the challenging terrains.
In the game Hardcore 4X4, the stages boast an invigorating degree of elevation, calling for an unconventional strategy. Each vehicle in this game is springy and necessitates a rather unexpected amount of throttle management if you aim to cross the finish line first.
A modest yet reliable assortment of paths is available, and they lead you to various landscapes, ranging from barren deserts to dense, verdant forests.
In a somewhat candid assessment, one might say that “Hardcore 4×4” was an early release during the PlayStation 1 era, and it reflects this. The vehicles in the game exhibit excessive oversteer, and their physics are debatable at best. However, despite its flaws, it’s quite enjoyable to traverse the rugged landscapes, as long as you approach it with a sense of humor rather than taking it too literally.
1. Porsche Challenge
Quality Over Quantity
Games that exclusively feature one car manufacturer aren’t abundant, but they have been around for quite some time. Delving into history, you might recall ‘Lotus Turbo Challenge’ on the Sega Genesis, and now it’s Porsche’s moment to shine in the spotlight.
In the Porsche Challenge, the car models are remarkably well-crafted, which is fitting given the game’s limited collection of automobiles. Despite having fewer vehicles, the game compensates with a good variety of tracks, among them being Porsche’s official test track in Stuttgart.
Cars cling to the road as if magnetically attracted, and a lively exchange of witty remarks can be heard among competitors, a trait that wasn’t widespread in racing scenes until well into the future.
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2025-04-18 16:40