Super Cars

Super Cars

Overview & History

Developed by Gremlin Graphics and ported to the Nintendo Entertainment System by Electro Brain in 1990, Super Cars shifts away from the studio's traditional isometric platformers into high-octane, top-down vehicular combat racing. Initially launched on home computers like the Amiga and Atari ST, the NES adaptation successfully retained the frantic pacing, metallic screeching soundscapes, and grimy, neon-lit urban aesthetic. Players compete across grueling circuit tracks, earning prize money to survive the cutthroat racing leagues.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Unlike standard racers focused purely on speed, Super Cars integrates aggressive combat mechanics. Piloting customizable sports cars, players navigate scrolling overhead tracks peppered with oil slicks, minefields, and rival racers who will gladly ram you off the road. Between races, players visit the garage to spend hard-earned cash on vital upgrades: armor plating to absorb damage, dual-firing front machine guns, rear-facing mine droppers, and devastating smart bombs that wipe out nearby competitors. Winning requires a delicate balance of razor-sharp cornering, strategic weapon deployment, and shrewd financial management.

Keyboard Controls

• Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Steer left/right, accelerate, and brake
• Action Keys: Fire machine guns (A) and drop mines/use special weapons (B)
• Enter: Start / Pause