The abundance of choice in gaming right now is staggering. In fact, one might even say that gaming has become a little too saturated, providing an issue with discovery. Nevertheless, it is usually a good problem to have, as long as you have the time to play.
It is also a golden era of car racing games, with more great choices than ever before. There are literally 1000s of titles out there, ranging from AAA racing titles to indie classics to racing-themed slot games online. Whether you’re an F1 fanatic or fervent Ferrari fan, you’ll find something of interest.
But which have been the best racing games in recent years? We can pick out ten from the 2020s so far that have dazzled fans:
- Forza Horizon 5 — 2021
In a nutshell, this 2021 release is the decade’s most complete racing game, taking the Forza Horizon festival to Mexico. It gained widespread critical acclaim – almost perfect – and it has such depth in its collection of cars, tracks and experiences. A masterpiece in car gaming.
- Gran Turismo 7 — 2022
Gran Turismo 7 successfully combines the traditional car-collecting progression of the older games with the competitive racing developed for GT Sport. It basically also acts as a celebration of automotive history.
- F1 2020 — 2020
Arguably the high point of Codemasters’ modern Formula 1 series, F1 2020 introduced the excellent My Team mode, allowing players to create and operate an eleventh F1 constructor. A brilliant balance between sim and competitive racing, and a must for Ferrari fans all over the world.
- Mario Kart World — 2025
Obviously, we aren’t going with realism here, but Nintendo expanded its kart-racing formula with interconnected environments, large fields of competitors and races that continue across the roads between traditional circuits. It’s chaotic, silly, and lots and lots of fun.
- Art of Rally — 2020
One of the lesser-known names on this list, this stylish indie racer presents rallying from an unusual, elevated camera angle, offering really cool landscapes and an immersive experience. While it might not seem like the most important element, its banging electronica soundtrack adds another layer.
- Forza Motorsport — 2023
The reboot of Microsoft’s circuit-racing series delivered impressively detailed cars, and it’s really something for those who like to look under the hood in car games. Its career structure and progression were not loved by all critics, but the racing itself provides an exhilarating experience.
- Need for Speed Unbound — 2022
Unbound effectively revitalized the Need for Speed franchise, turning it into the holy grail of street racing games. Its weekly campaign was a masterstroke, forcing players to carefully manage winnings.
- EA Sports WRC — 2023
Developed by the team behind DiRT Rally, this officially licensed World Rally Championship game really went big on its attention to detail, covering both modern and historic rally racing. It’s arguably the best rally game of the decade.
- Hot Wheels Unleashed — 2021
A brilliant and highly underrated arcade game. Its miniature tracks twist through bedrooms and other parts of the home, inviting players to experiment with fun loops and jumps. Not one for racing purists – or anyone who values realistic car gaming – but it’s lots of fun.
- Dirt 5 — 2020
This one is particularly good as a local multiplayer game, offering four-player split-screen at a time when that feature has become increasingly uncommon. It doesn’t really put too much emphasis on realism, but it does tick all the boxes for fun short sessions.
Leave a Reply