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How to make a racing game with AI

A racing game sounds big, but a simple one is very doable with AI: a car, a track, a lap timer and something to beat. You won't write code yourself. You paste a prompt into an AI coding tool such as Claude, Cursor, Bolt or ChatGPT, and it builds a playable browser game that you can open on your phone or computer.

Start top-down and 2D. It's much easier to get steering, drifting and lap counting right on a flat track, and you can always ask for 3D once the race itself is fun.

How to do it in 3 steps

  1. Copy the Starter recipe. Hit Copy below to grab the full recipe, ready to paste.
  2. Paste it into an AI tool. Start a fresh project and paste. If it asks, say you want one web page with no install.
  3. Race, then tweak the handling. Drive a few laps. If the car feels like ice or like a brick, ask the AI to change grip and top speed until it's fun.

Free Starter recipe

This is the Starter recipe from Forest Runner. Copy it as is, or change the details to make it yours.

Read the full recipe
Build a small, playable browser game inspired by "Forest Runner" (Racing).
Concept: Race through a dangerous Minecraft-inspired forest on a skateboard, dodge obstacles, collect power-ups, and escape rival chases in an endless high-speed arcade runner.
Tech: use Three.js; keep it to a single page that loads instantly with no login or install.
Controls (as seen on the original's screen): arrow keys, Space to jump, tap on mobile. Show them on a short how-to-play screen.
Players: single-player.
Core loop: include a visible score, a timer or round clock.
Audio: add simple sound effects and music (start audio on the first click/tap).
Steps: 1) get the core mechanic playable with placeholder shapes, 2) add win/lose conditions and restart, 3) polish feel, visuals and sound, 4) add your own twist (setting, character or one new rule).
Make it your own: don't copy the original's name, art, text or code.

Heads up: Starter recipes are learning templates written by Vibe1Up, not the creator's own prompt.

Play real racing games made with AI

See what's possible before you build. Each one is listed on Vibe1Up with credit to its creator.

Screenshot of Forest Runner

Forest Runner

by @mercurianranger · Three.js

Race through a dangerous Minecraft-inspired forest on a skateboard, dodge obstacles, collect power-ups, and escape rival chases in an…

Screenshot of HoverX

HoverX

by @menrva33 · Three.js

Hoverboard racing downhill game with FX and AR mode

More racing games →

Remix it: easy ideas to try

Once your first version works, paste one of these into the same chat:

FAQ

Should my first racing game be 2D or 3D?
2D top-down is the easiest start. It keeps the prompt short and makes bugs easy to spot. Ask for 3D later if you want it.
How do I add opponents?
Ask the AI for simple computer cars that follow points around the track. That's a well-known approach and most AI tools handle it well.
Will it work on a phone?
It can. Ask for on-screen left, right and gas buttons, and check it on your phone before adding anything else.

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