Pretend Cars Racing

About

"Pretend Cars Racing" is a retro-style top-down racer with a balance of arcade and simulation driving. Compete against AI, friends in split-screen or remote play, or chase your own ghost in hot-lap mode. Featuring 6 car classes and 30 real-world inspired tracks, this game promises diverse and challenging races, and runs well on Steam Deck.

Genres & Tags

Racing

Play Modes

Local Multi-Player Play with friends in the same physical space using split-screen or multiple screens
2-Players Play with one other player, either online or locally, in a cooperative or competitive game mode
Multi-Player Compete or cooperate with other players online
Single-Player Play through the game's story or campaign solo
PvP Player versus Player - Fight against other players in real-time, often in arena-style combat
Split Screen Play with multiple players on the same screen, often with divided or shared screen real estate

100%

Audience ScoreBased on 20 reviews

gameplay3 negative mentions

The game offers a nostalgic arcade racing experience reminiscent of classic titles like Micromachines, with engaging gameplay and a variety of content.
Controls, physics, and AI are well-executed, providing a fun and challenging racing experience that rewards practice and skill.
The developer is actively updating the game, adding new cars and modes regularly, which keeps the game feeling fresh and alive.

The game lacks customization options, such as control mapping, which can hinder the overall experience for players with different preferences.
The physics model can be unusual and takes time to get used to, with issues like heavy understeering and oversteering that may frustrate new players.
Sound effects are subpar, with repetitive car sounds and a lack of feedback on driving dynamics, which detracts from the immersive experience.

gameplay
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
50%
150%
The gameplay is characterized as a great top-down racing experience that requires some initial adjustment, but ultimately becomes very satisfying. Players appreciate the abundance of content, with ongoing updates from the developers enhancing the experience.
- “Great top-down racing game. At first, it takes a little getting used to the gameplay, but after a few painful initial minutes, it becomes very satisfying. There is plenty of content, and the developers have been adding more.”
- “The gameplay takes a little getting used to at first, but after some painful initial minutes, it becomes very satisfying.”
- “The gameplay can be frustrating initially, but it eventually becomes enjoyable after overcoming the early challenges.”
- “While the game has plenty of content, the gameplay experience can be quite painful in the beginning.”
graphics
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The graphics of the game have received mixed feedback, with some users praising the stunning visuals and attention to detail, while others feel that certain elements appear outdated or lack polish. Overall, the game's aesthetic is generally appreciated, but there are areas where improvement is needed.
monetization
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The monetization aspect features humorous knock-off advertisements along the trackside, which users find entertaining and enjoyable.
music
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Many players opted to play with the music turned off, focusing instead on the sound effects, which suggests that the music may not have been a significant draw for them.