Astro Race

About

Astro Race is a 1973 arcade racing game that pits two players against each other in a pixelated blast through a winding track. You steer a simple spaceship-shaped car, trying to stay ahead while dodging obstacles and oncoming traffic. Controls are minimal but brisk, relying on quick reflexes and timing to maintain speed. The game’s black-and-white visuals and fast pace make it feel like a cosmic version of a pinball machine, with each lap a high-stakes sprint to the finish. As Taito’s second video game and one of the earliest multiplayer racers, Astro Race holds a curious place in arcade history. Built using Atari’s Space Race technology but adapted into Taito’s own cabinets, it’s a rare example of early cross-company hardware collaboration. While not as well known as later racing titles, it showcases the competitive spirit that would define the genre decades later. With no digital saves or high scores, it’s all about quick laps and quicker fingers, a stripped-down thrill that still feels surprisingly addictive.