Know the Type of Racing Game You Are Playing
There is a huge difference between Arcade Racing games and Simulation Racing games. The biggest, and probably the most obvious, is that an arcade type racing game will play more freely; simulation racing and driving games are much more structured, and literally attempt to 'simulate' real racing and driving via game physics and variables for almost every part of the cars and environments.
Most racing games will fall under one of the above listed sub-genres, but there are many racers that will have elements of both, as well as elements of other types of racing games. For example, Electronic Arts' Need For Speed series is considered an arcade racer, but since it also has elements of the street racing game type, namely the customization of the vehicles both in terms of performance and visual appeal, it cannot be simply called an Arcade Racer just because most of the racing is on open public streets. In addition, as the series has advanced, it has started to include limited elements of racing sims, very limited, but worth mentioning.
The importance of this is two-fold. First, it shows us how racing games are evolving; secondly it serves as a prime example of the range of game play types available in just one title. If you have friends that game as well, you can ask them for suggestions, ask clerks at your local game store, or discuss what games you may enjoy in our forums.
OK Lets Get To the Finish Line - Drafting, Drifting, Braking, and Racing Lines
If there was one thing I would say is the most important at becoming a speed-master, it would be mastering the art of following the right racing lines. But as games are more complicated than getting from point A to point B there are actually four things I consider to be of the utmost importance.
Racing Lines - Keep Them Clean and Tight
A racing line is basically the ideal route to take, and includes such tactics as cutting corners close and veering to the left slightly before a right turn so you can maintain higher speeds. Much of this will be learned as you play the game and become familiar with the various courses, tracks, and routes available on your way to the finish line; in addition however, you will need to learn drafting (in many games), proper braking, and drifting.
Drifting Can Help At Times - But Can Also Be a Major Slow-Down
Sliding the rear end of your vehicle around a corner is considered drifting, and while it may get you around that upcoming turn a bit easier, if you overall goal is speed, it should be used only when necessary. Some games will award you in some fashion for drifting, and lets face it, drifting around a corner at 140 MPH is fun, but ultimately it will slow you down. I suggest you use it sparingly and instead; use the proper braking method.
Proper Braking Actually Delivers Higher Speeds
Now you might think the above statement is bogus, as suspected, brakes are meant to slow you down, but if used properly the ultimate result is higher speeds through curves and corners. Most racing games have two types of brakes, a standard brake, and an e-brake. Use of the e-brake with a fairly hard turn will result in drifting and slow you down. instead, use the standard brakes when taking moderate corners, no brakes when taking light curves, and use the e-brake only when you find you are going too fast to complete a turn without smacking into a wall, rail, or other car. When braking I recommend that you throttle your brakes, much like you may in a real world situation, holding the brake down fully for any short amount of time will slow you down. In racing games, the effect of proper braking is better control, allowing you to hit the racing lines dead on.
Drafting Other Racers Increases Speed Over Straight Areas
Not every game supports drafting (which is following another car closely to gain speed using their trailing wind), but for every game you play that does support it you would be wise to use it whenever possible, it's like free gas - and gas prices are mighty high these days. The whole objective to a good draft is to get as close to the upcoming car as possible, you will gain speed by doing so, and as you near the rear end of the vehicle, steer to pass it and head on to the next victim, and ultimately make it to the checkered flag first!
It's a Wrap - Now Hit the Track!
In a nutshell, these tips can be applied to almost any racing game on the market. If you are looking for game specific tips visit the Game Specific Guides, or head over to the forums to look for more tips.
