More than three and a half decades after its original debut, VROOM roars back onto the grid this time on the Atari Jaguar. This is made possible thanks to the dedication of indie publisher Songbird Productions and developer Lawrence Staveley. Priced at $89.95 and launching April 25, 2026, this long-awaited port aims to deliver the definitive version of a cult-classic Formula One racer.
A classic with pedigree
Originally developed by Lankhor in 1991, VROOM made its name on the Atari ST and Amiga as a fast, first-person F1 racer. While the base release was modest, later expansions grew the experience into a robust package with 18 tracks and multiple gameplay modes. The game would later evolve into F1 (Formula One in North America) for the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive, but many fans still consider the original VROOM lineage the purist’s experience.
This Jaguar version pulls directly from the enhanced Atari ST build, incorporating all add-ons and faithfully recreating the original’s speed-focused gameplay with minimal compromise.
Modes that matter
At its core, VROOM delivers three distinct ways to race. Training Mode offers full flexibility. Youo choose your laps, transmission, and opponents across any of the 18 circuits. Arcade Mode turns up the pressure with a five-lap score attack, rewarding aggressive overtaking while punishing mistakes. The main event, though, is the Championship mode that features a six-race season where strategy becomes just as important as speed. Managing fuel, tires, and pit stops adds a welcome layer of realism.
While a shorter “sampler” option exists, the full championship experience is where VROOM truly shines.
Performance over flash
What stands out most in this Jaguar port is its consistency. The frame rate remains steady, and the controls are impressively tight—responsive without feeling twitchy. Using the standard Jaguar controller feels natural, though support for alternate inputs (including rotary and mouse options) adds surprising versatility.
Visually, VROOM stays true to its roots. This is not a modern reinvention, but rather a faithful recreation. That means no flashy upgrades—but also no compromises to the original design.
Outpacing the competition
The Jaguar isn’t exactly known for a deep racing library, but VROOM confidently takes pole position. Compared to titles like Checkered Flag, Atari Karts, Super Burnout, and Power Drive Rally, this release offers a more complete, refined, and enjoyable racing experience.
For all its strengths, VROOM plays things a bit too safe. This is, for better or worse, a near one-to-one conversion. New features, such as online play via JagNet or enhanced multiplayer options, could have elevated the game from a great port to a must-have evolution.
Songbird productions
You can pre-order this game right now with an expected release date of April 25, 2026 via Songbird and price is $89.95 and you get the game in its stylish Jaguar-style cartridge, a full-color, 8-page manual, box for the game, as well as an controller overlay for manual shifting and pit stop controls
Final lap
VROOM on the Atari Jaguar is a success story for racers: a retro revival that respects its origins while delivering a polished and engaging experience. It may not reinvent the wheel, but it doesn’t need to.
A must-play for Jaguar enthusiasts and retro racing fans alike, just don’t expect modern bells and whistles.
