Rush hour takes on a whole new meaning in the adrenaline-fueled Speed Demons. Hop into a blazing-fast ride and careen through traffic-packed freeways, sideswiping rivals as you try to reach the finish line first. Your pedal is permanently fused to the medal – you just need to steer!

What we love: The wild variety of modes. Outrace opponents in Rally. Smash ’em to smithereens in Takedown. Outrun the law in Escape, or turn the tables and become the hunter in Pursuit. We get an extra kick out of Rampage mode, where you send cars flying with a well-placed ram. Make way!

Quick tip: To spot gaps in traffic (and avoid speed-sapping collisions), consider raising the camera height in the options menu. A loftier view may help you maintain momentum.

Meet the creator: According to Illinois-based indie developer Radiangames, Speed Demons’ procedurally generated highways could theoretically go on forever – but after a dozen or so miles, the physics start to get wonky. (Good thing these races are short and sweet!) Radiangames has also made Slydris, Scorcher and Ballistic SE.