The console versions of the game are set in the fictional town of Radiator Springs, where it takes place after the movie. The game takes place in a open world in the vein of Need for Speed, Grand Theft Auto and Midnight Club. As the player progresses additional areas of the open world are unlocked. The player character begins in Radiator Springs, but later unlocks Ornament Valley and Tailfin Pass. Players primarily control Lightning McQueen, but on occasion control other characters in specific events or minigames. It features ten playable characters from the film, all voiced by the original voice talent.[1][2] The player must compete in 19 road races, eight mini-games, and five Piston Cup races to help Lightning McQueen win his first Piston Cup championship.
Races vary in format and include checkpoint races, circuit courses in the open world, and Piston Cup races. Additionally each format adjusts characters based on the situation. Piston Cup races include only Piston Cup racers and feature 20 cars. Circuit and checkpoint races feature characters from the open-world story. Additionally checkpoint races feature monster truck versions of characters. Multiplayer is available for two players in split-screen mode, and each of the standard races are available.
The game also features a number of minigames and items for the player to collect. Amongst the minigames are tractor tipping with Mater and a musical rhythm game featuring Ramone. Other minigames appear as events during races, such as Luigi's pit stops during Piston Cup races. Three additional minigames, Mater's Countdown Clean-Up, Mater's Speedy Circuit, and Ghosting Mater are exclusive to the Xbox 360 and Nintendo Wii versions, which released over four months after the initial release. Collectables help to unlock characters, liveries and concept art.[3]
