Pole Position

Atari 2600’s Pole Position game description

Before the player can enter the Grand Prix, the player must first qualify by competing in the Qualifying Lap within 73 seconds or less. If the player however, does not qualify in the Qualifying Lap, the player may continue to race until the Race Timer runs after 90 seconds. The player will score 50 point per 5 meters and additionally 50 points for every racing car passed.

When the time runs out – Game Over. The player will have to restart the Qualifying Lap.

Pole Position was the first racing video game to feature a track based on a real racing circuit. It was also the first game to feature a qualifying lap, requiring the player to complete a time trial before they can compete in Grand Prix races.

Once the player has qualified, they must complete the race in the time allowed, avoiding collisions with CPU-controlled opponents and billboards along the sides of the track.

Qualifying will enable the player to start in one of the eight available positions. The faster the lap time was, the better the starting position in addition to bonus score points. The number one starting position, is the Pole Position.

During the Grand Prix, the player will compete against the Race Timer as well as against other racing cars. If the player fails to beat the Race Timer in any lap, the player drops out of the race – Game Over. Completing the race by reaching finishing line will grant the player 200 points per each second left on the Race Timer, bonus score for distance covered, and passing bonus points.

Scoring

• Every 5 meters driven: 50 points
• Passing Car Bonus: 50 points per racing car
• Time Bonus: 200 points per second left on the Race Timer

Positions

• Pole Position – Lap Time: 58″50 seconds – 4,000 points
• 2nd Position – Lap Time: 60″00 seconds – 2,000 points
• 3rd Position – Lap Time: 62″00 seconds – 1,400 points
• 4th Position – Lap Time: 64″00 seconds – 1,000 points
• 5th Position – Lap Time: 66″00 seconds – 800 points
• 6th Position – Lap Time: 68″00 seconds – 600 points
• 7th Position – Lap Time: 70″00 seconds – 400 points
• 8th Position – Lap Time: 73″00 seconds – 200 points

Play Pole Position online

You can play Pole Position online here, in a web browser, for free!