Arcade Racing Machines

Here are amusement arcades and entertainment venues across the UK that have at least one arcade racing machine. Check our listings below to race solo or against friends!

What is an arcade racing machine?

Arcade racing games are fast-paced, action-packed driving games typically found in amusement arcades and entertainment venues. Unlike VR driving simulators, arcade racing games focus on high-speed thrills, easy-to-learn controls, and somewhat guided gameplay, making them accessible and exciting for players of all ages. Arcade racing machines can feature a variety of vehicles including cars, motorbikes, boats and even jet-skis. Racing often takes place on tracks with jumps and shortcuts or open arenas where power-ups and weapons are incorporated. These games prioritize high-speed excitement and are designed to be easy to play, offering intuitive controls for players of all skill levels. Players can race a variety of vehicles, from cars and motorbikes to boats and jet-skis, across dynamic tracks or open arenas filled with obstacles, power-ups, and sometimes even weapons. The visual gameplay is enhanced with physical or mechanical elements, such as sports car-style seats with steering wheels and gear sticks, or mock motorbikes with throttles that sway from side to side, making the racing experience even more immersive.

What are the best arcade racing games?

The growing accessibility of VR technology has begun to influence the evolution of arcade racing machines, with many modern releases integrating VR headsets and multi-screen setups typically found in modern driving simulators. This shift is evident in newer arcades, such as Blackpool Amusements Arcade, where the latest machines like the dual-screen Fast and the Furious Arcade game provide a modern visually engaging experience. Many newer games are also fusing racing and shooting mechanics, as seen in popular titles like Mario Kart DX Arcade, with its battle-style gameplay and hybrid arcade machines like the Bump-n-Smash arcade game that blends guided gameplay, power-ups and ticket redemption fun. Fans of classic arcade racing games who enjoy finding classic titles from the past, keep an eye out for these machines sure to bring a wave of nostalgia. Iconic arcade car racing games include OutRun, Daytona USA, Sega Rally, Need for Speed Arcade, The Fast and the Furious, and Asphalt Legends. For those who prefer motorbike racing, be sure to test ride popular titles like Super Bikes, MotoGP Arcade, MotoBlitz DX, Super Moto 5.

Where are the best arcade racing machines?

Arcade racing machines can be found in amusement arcades, theme parks, and entertainment venues such as cinemas and bowling alleys. In the UK, racing enthusiasts can visit Clacton Pier Arcade, home to an impressive row of four Super Bikes 3 machines. For those who enjoy competitive racing battles, Felixstowe Pier arcade boasts four Mario Kart DX arcade machines. VR fans can experience the adrenaline of Ultra Moto VR, a motorbike racing game with a VR headset, available at New York New York Arcade in Southend. Meanwhile, visitors to Blackpool can take on the chaotic four-player Bump-n-Smash at Funland Arcade on the promenade.