Played from an overhead perspective, Burning Rubber involves demolishing rival vehicles while avoiding various hazards along the course. Opposing vehicles on the road include standard racecars, formula ones, tanks, and black vehicles with skulls. These enemies will do whatever it takes to run your car off the road.

Points are awarded when the vehicle scratches a rival car or "pounces" on it. In order to pounce on other cars, the vehicle must be traveling in excess of 100 miles per hour. This takes precise maneuvering, as one must aim the vehicle and land on the desired target while moving at high speeds. Rival cars are worth various points apiece, with the black skull cars worth the most. Bonus points are also awarded at the end of each level.

Each level contains a new color scheme and hazards including oceans, trees and rocks. There are times when the vehicle must launch itself over an ocean to continue racing; if an inadequate amount of speed is reached at the time of the jump, the vehicle will fall into the water and perish. Rocks and trees will also cause the vehicle's demise. If the computer-controlled cars run your car off the road, it will explode.

An extra vehicle will be awarded whenever 70,000 points have been earned, which is the case throughout the entire game. Burning Rubber also features an alternating multiplayer mode for two people. ~ Matthew House, All Game Guide