Play Test Drive : Cycles Online

Test Drive: Cycles came out for the Game Boy Color in 2000, a time when handheld racing games were starting to feel more substantial. It was published by Infogrames, and it was their attempt to bring a street motorcycle racing vibe to the small screen. You got a selection of sport bikes to choose from, which was a nice step up from the more generic racers common on the system.

You control a rider from a behind-the-back perspective, weaving through city traffic and trying to win a series of races. The main goal is to climb the ranks by finishing first in each event, earning cash to buy faster bikes and upgrades. Signature mechanics include drafting behind cars and other bikes to get a speed boost, and a nitrous system you can activate for a short burst of velocity. The traffic is dense, requiring quick lane changes and a good sense of timing to avoid collisions. Races are short but demanding, with aggressive AI opponents that keep you on your toes. It feels like a tense, focused scramble where one small mistake can cost you the lead.