The game uses a top-down, angled view of compact circuit tracks. Players steer a remote-controlled car, accelerate, brake, collect cash and weapons, and avoid hazards such as oil slicks, water, barriers, and other track obstacles.

Events are arranged as a progression of races. Finishing well earns money that can be spent on performance improvements, while weapons and pickups can disrupt opponents or help maintain a lead. Single-player races are available, and multiplayer supports up to four racers when the appropriate multitap hardware is connected.

Learn each track's corners before spending heavily on upgrades. Acceleration and traction are useful early purchases because they make recovery from collisions and difficult turns easier.

Collect cash whenever doing so does not risk a crash, and save weapon pickups for narrow sections or the final part of a race. In multiplayer, taking a safer line is often more effective than repeatedly attacking opponents.