The player character arrives at Palm City, a city known for its racing roots and participates in the Speedhunter Showdown, a daytime event sanctioned by the government. In order to get better parts for the car, the player also has to take part in illegal street racing at night to earn their street reputation. However, the Palm City Police Department sees to crack down on illegal street racing and the player will have to face a high-speed unit comprised of corrupted cops led by Lieutenant Frank Mercer.