Final Lap (Rev E)

Experience Formula One racing in Final Lap, released by Namco in 1987. Players control a race car from a chase view as they navigate tight, winding courses inspired by real-world tracks like Suzuka and Monaco. Strategic use of downshifting and braking is crucial for maintaining control on these challenging circuits. Unlike its predecessor, Pole Position, the steering feels looser but bumping into rival cars can result in spins that cost valuable time. Final Lap introduced a unique feature for its time; multiple arcade cabinets could be networked together to allow up to eight players to compete simultaneously. The game utilizes Namco System 2 hardware and features music composed by Shinji Hosoe. Versions of the game exist for both single and multi-player setups, with upright models using a single pedal that provides deceleration when released. The game’s legacy extends beyond arcades as it spawned several sequels and ports to other platforms including the Nintendo Famicom, and has been included in a limited-edition soundtrack album. A notable event surrounding Final Lap involved a legal dispute with Philip Morris due to an advertisement appearing within the game's environments.