Racing Video Games

Single-seat speed machines rip around re-creations of real-world racetracks, in the Nintendo 3DS debut of Codemaster's F1 motorsport simulation. On track with annual console editions in the series, the portable game is sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile Formula One World Championship and includes all the teams and drivers of the 2011 season, including Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, and Michael Schumacher. Put together part by virtual part, the game's Formula One race cars are designed to provide fans with an authentic sense of handling and acceleration.

A career mode poses challenges on the track and off, as players guide a rookie driver to a world championship. Single players can drive through a full F1 season, and up to four can compete in Grand Prix races or time trials. The 3DS edition of F1 2011 adds a Challenge mode of play. Driving aids are available to help new players learn the courses. Other options allow solo and multiplayer drivers to choose fuel types, tires, and engine fine-tuning, and to set race distances and weather conditions. The game features all 19 tracks of the 2011 season. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide

NASCAR Unleashed is an arcade-style racing game that puts superstar drivers on real-world roads, with races run in famous venues such as Daytona, Martinsville, and Chicagoland -- and out in the surrounding city streets, as well. Behind the wheel as Kyle Busch, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jeff Gordon, or one of a dozen others, players take the power and speed of NASCAR for an off-track joyride. Forgiving physics and accelerated action encourage players to trade paint as they push fearlessly to the front of the pack, while authentic techniques such as drafting or sling-shotting earn an extra boost. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide