Hill Climb Racing
A physics-based driving game about nursing a wobbly car up absurd hills before the fuel runs out
by Fingersoft · listed Nov 14, 2026
Quick verdict
A simple, well-made physics game that still earns its place on a phone, especially for offline play. Just be ready for a coin grind and some prompts to spend money.
Best for People who want a casual, offline physics driving game for short sessions
Reviewed by AppsPicks on Nov 13, 2026. How we review
Hill Climb Racing review
Hill Climb Racing is a side-scrolling driving game where you steer Bill and his vehicle across bumpy, steep terrain, balancing gas and brake so you neither flip over nor run dry. Coins you collect along the way pay for engine, suspension and tyre upgrades, plus new vehicles and stages, ranging from ordinary jeeps and bikes to oddities like a spider-legged car. It suits anyone who wants a quick, casual game that still rewards a bit of skill.
Day to day it works well in short bursts. A run might last a minute or two, and the two-pedal controls are easy to learn, but the physics make every hill a small puzzle in throttle control. Progress comes from grinding coins and buying upgrades, which keeps you coming back while the distance markers slowly creep further. It runs fully offline, so it is handy on flights and commutes.
Why we picked it: It is one of the most played mobile games ever, with over a billion Google Play installs, and the simple physics hook still holds up.
Watch out for: It is free with in-app purchases, including random-item purchases, and upgrade progress can feel slow unless you grind or pay.
What we like
- Simple two-pedal controls that are quick to learn
- Physics-driven gameplay that rewards careful throttle control
- Plays completely offline
- Wide range of vehicles and stages to unlock
- Still receiving updates from the developer
What could be better
- Includes in-app purchases, some with random items
- Upgrade progression can become a slow coin grind
- Runs can feel repetitive after long sessions
Questions about Hill Climb Racing
Is Hill Climb Racing free?
Yes, it is free to download and play on iPhone and Android. It offers optional in-app purchases, including random-item purchases, which you can disable in your device settings.
Can I play it offline?
Yes. The game is fully playable without an internet connection, which makes it a good pick for travel.
Is it suitable for kids?
Google Play rates it Everyone and the App Store rates it 12+. Parents may want to turn off in-app purchases before handing it to a child.
Is there a sequel?
Yes, Fingersoft also makes Hill Climb Racing 2, which adds online multiplayer and more customisation. The original remains a simpler, offline-first experience.
From the developer: how Hill Climb Racing describes itself
Play the original classic Hill Climb Racing! Race your way uphill in this physics based driving game, playable offline!
Meet Bill, the young aspiring uphill racer. He is about to embark on a journey through Climb Canyon that takes him to where no ride has ever been before. With little respect to the laws of physics, Bill will not rest until he has conquered the highest hills up on the moon!
Face challenges in unique hill climbing environments with a wide variety of cars to choose from. Earn points from daring tricks and collect coins to upgrade your car and travel further distances. Watch out though - Bill's neck is not what it used to be when he was a kid! And his good old gasoline crematorium will easily run out of fuel.
Features::
Fresh Content We are still actively developing Hill Climb Racing and adding new vehicles, new stages and new content!
Unique Vehicles Get behind the wheel of a wide variety of different vehicles. From the iconic Hill Climber to bikes, race cars, trucks and even some outlandish vehicles such as the creepy Carantula! Half car, half tarantula, do you dare drive it?
Play Offline Race offline whenever and wherever you want! Hill Climb Racing is playable completely offline. Play it on a bus, plane or train! Play it anywhere!
Wacky Stages Climb Canyon is full of unique challenges and stages for you to overcome with vastly different terrains and hazards. How far can you drive without running out of gas or crashing your vehicle?
Unlock and Upgrade Tune up and fix your dream vehicle with custom parts, skins and upgrades!
Simulated Physics We worked hard on creating a one of a kind in-game physics system where your vehicles will react to the terrain in a unique manner, can you use this to your advantage and conquer the hills?
Daily challenges and events Tackle the daily challenges and events to earn epic rewards! Follow Us: * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Fingersoft * X: https://twitter.com/HCR_Official_ * Website: https://www.fingersoft.com * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hillclimbracing_official * Discord: https://discord.com/invite/fingersoft * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hillclimbracing_game * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@FingersoftLtd Terms of Use: https://fingersoft.com/eula-web/ Privacy Policy: https://fingersoft.com/privacy-policy/
Text from the app store listing, quoted for reference. Our own take is above.
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