Hard Drivin'
Polygon pioneer
Atari's Hard Drivin' brought filled polygon 3D graphics to the arcade, creating a driving simulation that felt startlingly real for 1989.
Overview
Hard Drivin’ was among the first games to feature filled polygon graphics and physics-based driving. Its force-feedback steering wheel provided resistance; its clutch and stick shift demanded real driving technique. The stunt track’s loop-the-loop became iconic. For players in 1989, this was the closest thing to actual driving a game had offered.
Fast facts
- Developer: Atari Games.
- Hardware: custom TMS34010-based system.
- Graphics: filled polygons at 30fps.
- Controls: steering wheel with force feedback, clutch, gear stick.
- Tracks: speed course and stunt course.
- Sequel: Race Drivin’ (1990).
Technical achievement
Pushing arcade hardware:
- Polygon graphics: filled 3D, not wireframe.
- Physics simulation: cars behaved with weight.
- Force feedback: steering resistance.
- Instant replay: watch your crashes.
The stunt track
Memorable set pieces:
- Loop-the-loop: maintain speed or fall.
- Drawbridge jump: timing-based leap.
- Banked turns: realistic physics.
- Cow crossing: avoid obstacles.