The camera looks down from above and keeps the vehicles moving around compact, obstacle-filled courses. The objective is to finish races, survive elimination events, or beat the requirements of the selected challenge.

Players steer miniature vehicles around themed environments, using acceleration, braking, tight cornering, and route knowledge to maintain the lead. Progression comes through completing events and unlocking or reaching additional races and challenges, depending on the selected mode. The Nintendo 64 version also focuses on local multiplayer, where players compete on the same screen and try to make rivals lose position or fall out of view.

Learn the shape of each course before trying to drive at maximum speed. Smooth steering is usually safer than repeated sharp corrections, especially near table edges, ramps, and narrow bridges.

In multiplayer, watch the camera framing as well as your vehicle. A rival can be defeated simply by forcing them beyond the visible play area, so defensive positioning and control of corners are often more valuable than taking the shortest line.