Ace Racer

Ace Racer is a free-to-play online racing game for iOS and Android, created and released by NetEase Games. It launched in public beta in China on 23 July 2021, with the global version following on 16 March 2023.

The game uses arcade-style racing and shares elements with the Asphalt series and GKART. Players can compete online in ranked or practice modes, using skills to gain an advantage. Different tracks suit different vehicle types, so choosing the right car is important. A training mode teaches various techniques through different scenarios.

The vehicle roster includes both fictional cars and licensed brands like Audi, BMW, Bugatti, Land Rover, McLaren, MG, Pagani, Porsche, and Volkswagen. Most cars are obtained through a gacha system or in-app purchases. Players can upgrade vehicles in several ways and customize them with license plates, liveries, paint, and tires. Each car has one of three roles—Main, Interference, or Support—each with its own Ultimate ability. Most character outfits and clothing are also earned through gacha or purchases.

Development began with the game’s first appearance in June 2020, followed by a closed beta available on its official website. NetEase revealed Ace Racer at their 2021 NetEase Connect event, alongside Racing Master, marking the company’s first racing games. An Android closed beta ran from 27 May to 10 June 2021. The public beta in China on 23 July 2021 included iOS players for the first time. On 22 October 2021, the game debuted at the 2021 Huawei Developer Conference. On 2 March 2022, NetEase Games Global in Singapore launched a closed beta in the Philippines via Google Play. A subsequent closed beta for Canada and the United States began on 8 April 2022. After that test concluded, the worldwide release followed on 16 March 2023.

In line with China’s anti-addiction measures, NetEase updated its restriction system on 1 September 2021, requiring all users to link their real names to their accounts to prevent underage players from using false ages. Underage players under 8 can only play from 20:00 to 21:00 on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Players aged 8 to 16 are limited to spending no more than 50 yuan per purchase and 200 yuan per month, while those aged 16 to 18 cannot exceed 100 yuan per purchase and 400 yuan per month.