What is Micro Machines?
Micro Machines is a top-down racing video game developed by Codemasters and published by Galoob in 1991. It features miniature licensed toy vehicles from the Micro Machines line racing through everyday household environments like kitchens, bathrooms, workshops, backyards and office desks.
The game plays from a top-down perspective, allowing the player to see parts of the track ahead. Races take place on tracks made from common household items which appear large from the perspective of the tiny vehicles. Tracks are filled with hazards like cereal boxes, rulers, pizza, and more that players must avoid. The game focuses on fast-paced, pick-up-and-play multiplayer action for up to 4 players.
Game modes include single races, tournaments, time trials and head-to-head battles. Players can choose from a variety of Micro Machine toy cars to race with, each with their own speeds, acceleration and handling properties. The courses scroll automatically forcing the players forward, while also allowing a small amount of backtracking. Players collect powerups like faster speed or better handling during the race.
With its miniature car charm, compact race tracks based on home environments and smooth top-down racing gameplay, Micro Machines carved out a unique place in the racing video game genre. Its gameplay still holds up today as addictive arcade fun, especially with friends.