Retro games, abandonware, freeware
and classic games for PC and Mac

RE-Volt

Platform: Windows

Re-Volt (1999) is a fun and fast-paced arcade-style racing game that puts you behind the wheels of remote-controlled cars. Developed by Acclaim Studios London and published by Acclaim Entertainment.

Year 1999
Genre Racing
Rating star star star star star_border
Publisher Acclaim Studios
Developer Acclaim Entertainment
OS Supported MacOS 10.6+, Windows 98, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows 95
Updated 22 Apr 2025

Game Review

Released in 1999, Re-Volt is a standout arcade racing game that lets players control radio-controlled (RC) cars in a variety of creative and chaotic tracks. Developed by Acclaim Studios London and published by Acclaim Entertainment, the game combines quirky environments, solid driving mechanics, and a healthy dose of fun that made it an instant classic among racing fans.

Unlike traditional racing games, Re-Volt transports players into oversized environments, where toy cars speed through suburban neighborhoods, supermarkets, museums, rooftops, and gardens. This unique perspective gave the game a distinct charm and helped it stand out in a crowded racing market. Each track is filled with obstacles, ramps, shortcuts, and interactive elements that demand quick reflexes and clever driving.

The game also features power-ups, which include fireworks, water balloons, oil slicks, and more—adding a fun, combat-style twist to races, similar to games like Mario Kart. The combination of fast racing and light weapon mechanics makes every race unpredictable and entertaining.

Re-Volt offers a variety of modes including Single Race, Championship, Time Trial, Practice, and Multiplayer, with support for LAN and split-screen play. Over 28 cars are unlockable, each with different handling and performance, from standard racers to quirky offbeat RC models.

On the technical side, the game was praised for its smooth 3D graphics, excellent physics engine (especially for its time), and dynamic lighting effects. It originally launched on Windows, Nintendo 64, PlayStation, and Dreamcast, and later gained a cult following thanks to the fan-made RVGL port, which brought Re-Volt to modern Windows, Linux, and macOS platforms.

With its unique theme, memorable tracks, and energetic gameplay, Re-Volt remains a favorite for fans of arcade racers and retro gaming. The dedicated community continues to keep the game alive with new content, mods, and online play, proving that this little RC racer still has plenty of juice left.