Ahead of the Formula E Tokyo E-Prix on May 17–18, Nissan has released an online, browser-based racing game titled NISMO Electric Racer, a pixelated love letter to Japan’s storied video game legacy. Developed in collaboration with creative agency Dark Horses and design studio Electric Studios, the 16-bit experience offers players the chance to race through cherry blossom-lined streets, neon-lit cityscapes, and even alongside the shadow of Mount Fuji.
The game is a visual and technical tribute to the golden age of arcade driving games, drawing direct inspiration from late-80s and early-90s classics like OutRun and Super Chase H.Q. Leading the creative direction, Electric Studios oversaw illustration, concept design, and full asset development for the game. This included everything from environment art to vehicle and character animation. Players can race as Nissan Formula E drivers Oliver Rowland or Norman Nato, both of whom will debut physical 16-bit-inspired liveries on their racecars at the Tokyo event.
Art Director Kurt Champion notes that the shift to pixel art introduced a distinct creative challenge: “There’s something special about distilling design to its most essential form. Working at 16-bit resolution forces you to consider every detail—motion, scale, rhythm—with complete intentionality. If it didn’t enhance the sensation of speed, we left it out.”
Electric Studios collaborated with Japanese-Australian illustrator Kentaro Yoshida, whose distinct style infused the visuals with cultural nuance, and designer/animator Matias Poggini, who brought depth and dynamism to the characters and gameplay environment.
Now available to play for free on both desktop and mobile, NISMO Electric Racer is equal parts nostalgic throwback and interactive brand storytelling—crafted to delight gamers, car enthusiasts, and design aficionados alike.