Overview
Pole Position put players behind the wheel with a view from behind their car—a perspective that became racing game standard. Namco’s sprite scaling created the illusion of speed as the Fuji Speedway rushed toward you. Qualify, then race: the formula seems obvious now because Pole Position invented it.
Fast facts
- Developer: Namco.
- Release: 1982.
- Track: Fuji Speedway.
- Innovation: Rear-view racing perspective.
Visual technique
| Feature | Method |
|---|
| Pseudo-3D | Sprite scaling |
| Road | Horizontal stripe scaling |
| Scenery | Pre-scaled sprite sets |
| Speed illusion | Rapid scaling |
Game structure
| Phase | Objective |
|---|
| Qualifying | Set lap time |
| Starting position | Based on qualifying |
| Race | Finish before time expires |
| Time extension | Checkpoints |
Controls
| Input | Function |
|---|
| Steering wheel | Direction |
| Accelerator | Speed |
| Brake | Slow down |
| Gear shift | High/low |
Track elements
| Element | Hazard |
|---|
| Other cars | Collision |
| Roadside objects | Billboards, signs |
| Road edges | Slowdown |
| Puddles | Loss of control |
Cabinet design
| Feature | Detail |
|---|
| Sit-down version | Immersive |
| Steering wheel | Force feedback |
| Pedals | Analog control |
| Gear shift | Mechanical feel |
Advertising integration
Real billboards in-game:
- Marlboro (later removed)
- Pepsi
- Canon
- First in-game advertising
Technical achievement
| Innovation | Impact |
|---|
| Sprite scaling | Speed sensation |
| Perspective | Genre standard |
| Cabinet integration | Immersion |
Home versions
| Platform | Quality |
|---|
| Atari 2600 | Impressive for hardware |
| Atari 7800 | Good port |
| C64 | Solid adaptation |
Sequel
Pole Position II (1983):
- Multiple tracks
- Enhanced graphics
- Same core gameplay
Legacy
Pole Position established:
- Behind-car racing view
- Qualifying + race structure
- Sprite scaling racing
- Racing game conventions
Influence
Direct descendants:
- Out Run
- Hang-On
- Every rear-view racer
See also