3 Best Tesla Games for Road Trips (Model 3)

One of the many pioneering innovations that Tesla has introduced is its in-car gaming feature, designed to entertain passengers and drivers alike during downtime on the road (even though charging time during road trips is actually much less than most people think).

Dubbed Tesla Arcade, this feature is a video game platform built directly into the vehicle’s infotainment system. It leverages the car’s large center touchscreen for display and interaction, effectively transforming the car into a moving gaming console.

A host of games, ranging from classic board games to thrilling racing and adventure games, are available to play when the car is parked or charging.

In this article, I’m going to share with you my three favorite games to play while on a road trip. I’ll explain what makes the game enjoyable and why I find it perfect while road tripping.

Solitaire

Yes, that Solitaire. The classic card game all of us over a certain age definitely played on Windows XP back in the day.

It’s a simple game to play and that simplicity is what makes it great for road trips. There are no complicated controls or gameplay to learn. You can open Solitaire up and begin playing right away.

The other reason I love it for road trips is because a game of Solitaire lasts me around 5 minutes, give or take. And, although many people still have the perception that charging takes hours – it simply doesn’t.

At a Tesla Supercharging station on a road trip, by the time I walk into the grocery store or gas station at the charging location, use the restroom and grab me a drink and a snack, I often already have enough charge to finish my trip.

If I do have to wait, it’s normally only a few minutes – perfect for a game of Solitaire.

Finally, the Solitaire game does have the feature where you earn “money” each game when you place cards in the final piles and spend “money” each time you have to restart. This keeps each game more interesting as you try to add to your cumulative score each game.

Missile Command

If I wasn’t already showing my age then I’m definitely going to now. If you’re old enough to have had an Atari in your childhood then I don’t have to explain why Missile Command is amazing.

Tesla has a few nostalgic games on it’s console, but in my opinion, Missile Command is the best of the bunch.

The controls are very simple (yes, you can actually use the steering wheel to move the cursor, but I rarely use it). Tap the screen where you want to shoot and click the left spinwheel on your steering wheel to fire. That’s it.

Like Solitaire, this simplicity is one of it’s best features. On a road trip I generally don’t have the time or desire to learn something new and complex. Give me simple games that I already know how to play and will be fun while I’m killing time for five minutes.

Now, if your childhood involved a lot more Mario and a lot less Frogger than, admittedly, Missile Command might not be your jam. But, if you haven’t played Missile Command in 30 years, your next road trip is the perfect time to get reacquainted with this old friend.

Stardew Valley

The first two games above, Solitaire and Missile Command, are both great because they’re simple, easy and quick to play. However, there are the occasional charge stops that are a bit longer and you may find yourself with close to a half hour to kill.

This is when I turn to Stardew Valley.

Stardew Valley is a farming simulation role-playing video game, where the player takes the role of a character who inherits their grandfather’s dilapidated farm. Set in the idyllic countryside, the game entails a mix of tasks including growing and harvesting crops, raising livestock, crafting goods, mining for ores, and socializing with the townsfolk.

It’s an open-ended game that allows players to partake in a myriad of activities as they build and manage their farm, engaging in the virtual rural life.

Stardew Valley is an excellent choice for road trips due to its calm and engaging gameplay. The in-depth nature of the game allows players to get immersed for hours, making it perfect for longer road trips. Its relaxing ambiance also provides a nice contrast to the buzz of travel, offering an escape into a peaceful rural setting.

Moreover, it doesn’t require fast reflexes or constant attention, meaning it can be easily paused and resumed whenever needed. This game’s appeal transcends age groups, making it a fantastic choice for both younger players and adults alike.

Safety Considerations when Playing Games

When talking about playing games in the Tesla I feel obligated to remind you that safety should always be top priority when accessing the Tesla Arcade.

The safest times to enjoy Tesla Arcade games are when the vehicle is parked or charging. This could be during rest stops on long road trips, during supercharging sessions at Tesla charging stations, or while waiting in the car for any reason.

Essentially, any time the vehicle is stationary and the driver is not required to focus on driving tasks is an appropriate time to take advantage of these in-car entertainment features. It’s also an excellent way to keep passengers entertained when waiting in the car.

However, it’s crucial to remember that safety should never be compromised, and the vehicle and its features should always be used responsibly.

Final Thoughts

Tesla’s in-car gaming feature, Tesla Arcade, brings a unique form of entertainment directly to your vehicle, effectively transforming downtime during road trips into fun gaming sessions. This innovative system goes beyond traditional car entertainment systems, adding an extra dimension of enjoyment to long journeys, breaks, or charging times.

So, the next time you’re embarking on a road trip in your Tesla, remember to explore the exciting world of games it has to offer.

Whether you’re a fan of fast-paced arcade games, tranquil simulation games, or the strategic unfolding of a classic card game, there’s something for everyone. (Well, at least the older passengers – you may still want to look into toddler toys for car trips for those that won’t be impressed by Missile Command)

Make the most out of your Tesla Arcade, turn those idle moments into interactive fun, and add a unique twist to your road trip experiences. Remember to always prioritize safety, and have an exciting journey ahead!