Introduction
Released in 1983 by Namco (and distributed by Atari in North America), Pole Position II is the sequel to the revolutionary 1982 arcade hit Pole Position. With improved graphics, more tracks, and the same blistering speed, the game built upon its predecessor’s innovations and solidified Namco’s status as a leader in arcade racing. It became one of the best-selling arcade games of its era.
Development and History
- Developer: Namco
- Publisher: Namco (Japan), Atari (North America)
- Release Date: 1983
- Platform: Namco Pole Position II custom board (based on 16-bit Zilog Z8002 CPU)
Following the success of Pole Position, Namco quickly developed a follow-up that retained the core gameplay but introduced more variety and polish. The game featured four selectable tracks instead of one: Fuji Speedway (returning from the first game), Test, Seaside, and Suzuka. It also included updated car sprites, background scenery, and a flashier color palette.
Pole Position II used a sit-down cockpit-style cabinet and upright version, simulating a Formula 1-style driving experience complete with a steering wheel, gear shifter, and pedals. It became one of the first arcade games to let players select from multiple race tracks.
Gameplay Video
Gameplay and Mechanics
Pole Position II continued the simulation-style racing formula of the original, with a time trial followed by a competitive Grand Prix.
Key features:
- Four tracks: Fuji, Test, Seaside, and Suzuka
- Time-based checkpoint racing with increasing difficulty
- Gear shifting between low and high gears for optimal speed control
- Steering wheel, gas pedal, and brake pedal for full control
- Collision-based crashes with dramatic explosion animations
- Racing against AI-controlled opponents for pole position and final score
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Pole Position II was one of the highest-grossing arcade games of 1984 and helped define the genre.
- One of the first arcade games to offer track selection
- Reinforced the viability of realistic driving simulations in arcades
- Frequently featured in malls, arcades, and early home ports (including Atari 7800)
- Included in several Namco Museum collections and plug-and-play devices
- Influenced future arcade racing titles, including Out Run, Rad Racer, and Virtua Racing
Fun Facts
- Fuji Speedway was the only track to return from the original Pole Position
- The game used real F1-style courses but renamed them generically for licensing reasons
- Explosion graphics were slightly toned down from the original to comply with regional standards
- The “Prepare to Qualify” voice sample remained an iconic feature from the series
- Pole Position II was used in Atari’s 1984 System 1 arcade hardware for testing compatibility
Conclusion
Pole Position II delivered one of the most refined and enduring early arcade racing experiences. With faster gameplay, more variety, and an iconic cabinet setup, it remains a landmark title in the evolution of racing games. For many, it was the first true test of arcade driving skill.