Fifteen Thrilling High-Speed Car Titles to Experience Immediately
Car video games have consistently been at the forefront of visual impressiveness, frequently setting the standard for graphics in new hardware generations. Over time, these games have evolved beyond just visual spectacles, with driving simulations getting dangerously close to replicating real-life driving experiences. The most skilled players in top racing video games often compete at the highest levels of actual motorsport. However, for the majority of players, these games serve as a safe haven where they can pilot their dream vehicles at high speeds without the risk of costing thousands in repairs. These games offer a unique fantasy that few other genres can match, and the best driving games can consume a significant portion of one's gaming life.
Top Racing and Driving Games
Racing games categorically form their own genre, which can generally be divided into simulations and arcade-style games. Some games blur the lines between these two categories, whereas others defy classification altogether.
Not every car game centers around racing, as some cleverly incorporate cars into other genres. However, the top car games frequently involve some form of racing. Some games focus solely on racing, offering a raw and unadulterated experience, while others incorporate racing elements within a broader narrative or provide a quest to build an extensive car collection. The list below includes various types of car games, all of which have been praised by critics, appreciated by fans, and have demonstrated lasting popularity.
15. TrackMania (2020)
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
The 2020 resurgence of this iconic Ubisoft franchise brought back the core concept of fast cars on otherworldly racing tracks that would be impossible in the real world. This game is all about precision and control, with some tracks requiring countless attempts to complete, making it ideal for perfectionists and the patient.
14. Le Mans Ultimate
Platforms: PC
Still in early access, Le Mans Ultimate is the official video game of the World Endurance Championship (WEC), allowing fans to immerse themselves in the WEC experience provided by Studio 397. While it still needs some polishing, it has the potential to become a great racing simulation.
13. EA Sports WRC
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
For those who prefer rally racing, EA Sports' 2023 WRC game offers a realistic and authentic experience with numerous licenses, making it appealing to hardcore rally fans and novices alike.
12. BeamNG.drive
Platforms: PC
BeamNG GmbH's 2015 release, BeamNG.drive, is all about destruction. The physics engine allows players to completely destroy their cars in seconds, providing endless entertainment. If you're into mods and custom content, you'll find plenty of activities, such as car obstacle courses.
11. Forza Motorsport (2023)
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S
Though not as hardcore as other sim racing games, Turn 10's 2023 Forza Motorsport reboot caters to those new to sim racing, offering a wide selection of tracks and cars that should appeal to most players, given they have a compatible Microsoft device.
10. Assetto Corsa
Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, iOS
Kunos Simulazioni's 2014 Assetto Corsa is a cult classic in the sim racing genre, boasting a dedicated fan base that has continued to develop custom content and mods for the game. The console versions may be outdated, but on PC with some mods, this game remains a great choice for those seeking rare cars and tracks.
9. Burnout Paradise Remastered
Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch
Released in 2018, this remaster of the renowned Burnout Paradise offers fast-paced racing in a captivating location with an iconic soundtrack. It is simple to pick up and play, making it enjoyable for all types of gamers.
8. The Crew Motorfest
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
This 2023 open-world racing game from Ubisoft allows you to explore a vast environment in high-speed vehicles, offering an experience that is more modernized and user-friendly than its predecessors.
7. Assetto Corsa Competizione
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Released in 2019, this GT3 racing simulation from Kunos Simulazioni focuses on realistic GT3 racing, with some other categories included. If GT3 racing appeals to you, this game offers everything you could need, but its complexity might be intimidating for beginners.
6. F1 24
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
If Formula One racing is your passion, this 2023 game from Codemasters is for you. It offers an authentic and captivating racing experience with a wide range of licensed teams and tracks, making it a must-play for fans of the sport.
Codemasters' annual F1 games might not match up to the incredibly realistic simulators, but they offer a fantastic virtual F1 experience for both novices and experts. They range from easy-to-play formats for beginners to complex sims for pros. Regardless of where you fall on the spectrum, it's challenging to find significant flaws in these games if you're an F1 enthusiast.
5. Forza Horizon 5
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Playground Games' Horizon series, unlike other Forza titles, is an open-world arcade racer. With the 2021 release of the fifth installment, they've perfected the formula, enabling you to race around a fictionalized Mexico in high-speed vehicles, providing endless entertainment. This game is easy to play, making it an excellent choice for all ages.
4. Gran Turismo 7
Platforms: PS4, PS5
Polyphony's beloved racing series reached new heights with their 2022 iteration, offering an incredible motorsport simulation on Sony consoles. Beginners can easily navigate this game, while more experienced players can delve deep into its complex mechanics, committing hours to mastering it. If you're a fan of racing games on PlayStation, this title is a must-have.
3. Rocket League
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch
Psyonix's 2015 hit, Rocket League, completely redefined car games by combining soccer and fast-paced car racing, and it's still close to perfection. The game is easy to pick up and play, but mastering it is virtually impossible. It's a must-play for fans of both sports and racing.
2. iRacing
Platforms: PC
iRacing.com Motorsport Simulations' 2008 release is arguably the most hardcore racing sim out there. Featuring virtually identical mechanics to real racing, this game will consume your life and your wallet, so be warned! If you're looking for a realistic racing sim with a steep learning curve, look no further.
1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Platforms: Switch
If karts are considered cars, then Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the best racing game ever, offering a fun and engaging experience for all ages. This 2017 Switch title is a package of all the Mario Kart 8 content, boasting a flawless design and providing endless replay value.
Conclusion
In the digital realm, a vast array of car-related experiences await, covering everything from serious racing simulations to fantastical sports games. This list has you covered, no matter your tastes or skill level!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best racing games on PS5?
The best racing game on PS5 is Gran Turismo 7 from Polyphony Digital, which delivers an extensive library of cars, tracks, and racing disciplines, all while maintaining an engaging experience for participants. If you're not looking for a specific discipline and don't want a subscription, this is the best simulation option available for you.
However, if you're looking for an arcade-style racing game, The Crew Motorfest from Ubisoft offers an open-world racing experience on PlayStation, providing a fairly good substitute for Forza Horizon on the Sony platform. You can explore the world, participate in races, or simply enjoy cruising in impressive vehicles at your leisure.
What are the best racing games on Xbox?
Unlike PlayStation consoles, the best racing game on Xbox isn't a simulation but an arcade racer, namely Forza Horizon 5 from Playground Games. It invites you to a breathtaking playground, offering a fantastic environment to race your favorite cars at your leisure.
For a more traditional racing sim, Assetto Corsa Competizione from Kunos Simulazioni is an excellent choice for GT fans, providing a high-quality racing simulation experience. Alternatively, Forza Motorsport (2023 reboot) from Turn 10 Studios offers a solid racing experience beyond GT3 racing, catering to a broader audience.
What are the best driving games on Nintendo Switch?
Considering its limited processing capabilities, the Nintendo Switch offers a surprising number of excellent driving games. The best of the batch is undoubtedly Mario Kart 8 Deluxe from Nintendo, which redefined the genre and remains among the greatest kart racing games ever created.
Other worthy options include Rocket League if you love car football, as well as Burnout Paradise Remastered from Criterion for a more traditional racing experience.
What are the best driving games on PC?
The PC platform is teeming with superb driving games, with iRacing from iRacing.com Motorsport Simulations taking the top spot as the most hardcore racing simulator available. It's not for the faint of heart, as it requires both a high level of commitment and a substantial financial outlay.
For a more budget-friendly option, Assetto Corsa Competizione from Kunos Simulazioni provides an excellent racing sim experience at a more reasonable cost, while offering optional expensive DLC. There are also plenty of fantastic arcade-style racing games, such as Forza Horizon 5, which drop you in an open world and let you cruise around in amazing cars.
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The 'Best car games' listed in the top racing and driving games include 'Forza Motorsport' (2023), 'Assetto Corsa', and 'BeamNG.drive'. These titles can be found on various platforms, such as PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and even Nintendo Switch.
If you're an Xbox player looking for 'Xbox racing games', you might enjoy 'Forza Motorsport' (2023) or 'Assetto Corsa Competizione'. These games offer realistic and authentic racing experiences that cater to hardcore racing fans.
If you're a PlayStation 5 owner and prefer 'PS5 racing games', 'Gran Turismo 7' is a top choice. This game sets the standard for gran turismo racing simulations on the platform, providing a captivating racing experience for all skill levels.