Why L.A. Rush Deserves to Be on GOG – An Underrated Masterpiece in Street Racing
Released in 2005, L.A. Rush is one of those racing games that didn’t get the spotlight it deserved but still earned a cult following thanks to its gritty street vibe, unique customization system, and blend of open-world driving with structured racing. Developed by Midway, this entry in the Rush franchise took a different route from its arcade-style predecessors, bringing in real-world car brands, West Coast hip-hop flavor, and a storyline that felt like a playable street racing movie. It’s long overdue for a second chance—and GOG would be the perfect platform for its return.
Set in an open-world version of Los Angeles, L.A. Rush lets players cruise through iconic neighborhoods, race rival crews, and reclaim stolen cars while navigating a revenge-driven storyline. While it leaned more into street culture than pure arcade chaos, it maintained the fast, unpredictable feel the Rush series was known for. Real-life tuners like West Coast Customs even played a role in designing the cars, which added a fun layer of authenticity.
What makes L.A. Rush special—and underrated—is how it balances open-world exploration with mission-based structure. The game was ahead of its time in some ways, combining cinematic flair with aggressive racing and a soundtrack that included artists like Lil' Kim and Twista. Its mix of raw energy, stylized visuals, and immersive atmosphere captured the mid-2000s street racing vibe better than many of its competitors.
Bringing L.A. Rush to GOG would not only preserve a piece of racing game history, but also introduce a new generation to an overlooked gem that deserves recognition. It's time to let this street legend ride again—DRM-free and fully optimized for modern PCs.