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The game uses a behind-the-car third-person view. Players drive a Formula-style race car through a qualifying session first, trying to post a fast enough time to enter the main event. Courses include Fuji, Suzuka, a Test Course, and the original Pole Position track. Controls typically use a steering wheel plus separate accelerator and brake inputs. Success depends on learning each circuit, braking before tight bends, avoiding collisions, and maintaining momentum for a high score and longer runs.

No character information available

Learn each course layout before chasing risky lap times. In qualifying, consistency matters more than taking every corner flat out. Brake or lift early for tighter turns, then accelerate smoothly on corner exit to avoid losing control. Overtake mainly on straights where traffic patterns are easier to read. Crashes cost significant time, so protecting momentum is usually better than forcing aggressive passes.

No cheats or unlockables available

Tips and tricks

Aim to qualify first; a clean lap is more valuable than a reckless fast start.

Tips and tricks

Use straights for safer overtakes whenever possible.

Tips and tricks

Memorizing braking points is the fastest way to improve.

User Reviews

The selectable tracks make it a strong upgrade over the first game.

User Reviews

Its sense of speed was impressive for 1983.

User Reviews

Simple to understand, but difficult to master at high scores.

Pole Position II

Arcade Systems

4.6

(0)

1-2

Players

Arcade

Genre

Info

Pole Position II is a 1983 arcade racing game by Namco and the direct sequel to Pole Position. It keeps the series' signature format of running a qualifying lap before the main race, while adding selectable courses and more impressive roadside scaling effects. Focused on speed, clean cornering, and passing traffic efficiently, it became one of the landmark racers of the early arcade era.

Game Details

Platform: Arcade Systems
Release Year: 1983-01-01
Publisher: Namco
Developer: Namco
Plays: 611
Last updated: 54 seconds ago

Comments

About Pole Position II

Pole Position II is a 1983 Arcade Systems arcade, racing, driving game, developed by Namco and published by Namco. Pole Position II is a 1983 arcade racing game by Namco and the direct sequel to Pole Position. It keeps the series' signature format of running a qualifying lap before the main race, while adding selectable courses and more impressive roadside scaling effects. Focused on speed, clean cornering, and passing traffic efficiently, it became one of the landmark… You can play Pole Position II instantly in your browser at https://www.classicemu.com — no downloads or installation required, with cloud save support and mobile touch controls.

Play online in the browser

Start Pole Position II directly on this page with ClassicEmu. The emulator runs in your browser, so you can play online without installing a desktop emulator first.