Races are viewed from above, with the player steering through city courses while competing against rival drivers. The main objective is to finish first, although some events emphasize checkpoints, time limits, or other race conditions.

Progression centers on winning events and using rewards to improve the car. The Game Boy Advance version provides a more compact structure than the console game, with selectable races and a limited portable interpretation of customization and career advancement.

Learn each course before spending heavily on upgrades. Clean lines through corners are usually more valuable than maximum speed, especially on narrow sections.

Save money for improvements that match the event type, and use any available boost on exits from corners or on the final straight rather than wasting it while turning.