Similar to "Out Run", the concept behind "Rad Mobile" is a race against opponents across the United States. Players must race across the country while also avoiding police cars. At certain points in the race, the road forks, allowing players to skip several stages. The game's weather and time of day changes, sometimes requiring players to turn on windshield wipers or headlights. "Rad Mobile" was also the first appearance of Sonic the Hedgehog, appearing as a decorative item hanging from the driver's rearview mirror. Sonic's appearance in the game predated his debut in "Sonic the Hedgehog" for the Sega Genesis by five months. Interested in getting their new character visible to the public, Sonic Team approved of his appearance in the game.