Racing Game Tips: Faster Corners, Better Starts and Smarter Nitro

Brake before the corner, not in it

Slow down while the car is still pointing straight, then let go of the brake as you turn in and get back on the gas as you straighten out. Braking in the middle of a bend makes the car slide and loses more time than it saves.

Take a smooth racing line

Start wide, cut toward the inside of the bend at the middle and let the car drift back out on exit. Look at the minimap to see what is coming, so you can plan your line before you reach the corner.

Stay off the grass

Grass slows you down, and sand and mud are even worse. On rain and snow tracks the grip drops too, so brake earlier and steer gently. It is better to be a little slow on the road than fast and off it.

• Rain and snow: brake earlier, steer gently
• Grass, sand and mud: avoid them entirely
• Gentle steering keeps more grip than a sharp turn

Get the launch right

On the start line, a smooth hold on the gas beats flooring it and spinning the wheels. In Street Rush, keep the rev meter in the green window for a perfect launch. A good start puts you ahead of the pack before the first corner.

Spend nitro on straights and overtakes

Nitro is strongest on a long straight or when you are passing a rival, not on a corner exit where it just pushes you wide. In Street Rush, near misses, drifts and sitting in a rival's slipstream refill the tank, so it pays to drive cleanly.

Use the handbrake sparingly

A tap of the handbrake helps in a tight hairpin or to start a drift, but holding it scrubs off speed. Try each car in the garage; they handle differently, and one will suit your style better than the rest.

Want to try two wheels? Superbike rewards late but smooth braking and leaning through bends. For something wilder, Highway Chase adds traffic and police to the mix.