Death Race is probably inspired by the movie "Death Race 2000" by Sylvester Stallone, released 15 years before this game. The goal of the game is to crush little green imps behind the wheel of your car. Progress through the race courses of eight American cities, from west to east, starting with San Diego and Phoenix. Each race consists of capturing a flag and finding the exit, while crushing as many imps as possible and avoiding the helicopters and missiles that try to take you out.

The player has a certain amount of money to start with and earns more money by finishing the races alive. This money can be used to upgrade the car's engine, steering, tires, chassis or weapons systems.