Racing games have been around since the early days of video gaming, and there’s a vast array of options to help you claim the winning spot. Many popular games within this genre are highly regarded, but some might say they stick to familiar patterns without trying anything new or innovative with the gameplay mechanics.
Keeping that thought in mind, here’s a collection of driving games that have the courage to stand out, while also providing a traditional racing experience either as the central focus or an additional element.
Every game on this list features conventional racing as well as an exceptional feature or mini-game that sets it apart. These distinctive elements can be entertaining diversions, but some are what truly elevates the game.
8. Destruction Derby 1 & 2
Classic PS1 Racers
Instead of questioning whether to include this game due to its age, the timeless appeal of ‘Destruction Derby’s’ thrilling ‘Wreckin’ Racing’ makes it hard to resist adding it to the list.
In Destruction Derby, you can continue to compete as normal using the Stock Car Racing mode. However, instead of the regular scoring system, Wreckin Racing introduces a points-based reward scheme where damaging your competitors is taken into account.
Points are awarded according to the extent you manage to rotate your opponents when colliding with them. Achieving a complete 360-degree spin will result in substantial points.
Keep in mind that death is always a possibility, eliminating you from competition. On a lighter note, there’s an exciting demolition mode set in a circular arena, which may not be considered racing, but it certainly adds some enjoyable excitement!
Destruction Derby is a classic PS1 racer and is still enjoyable despite its age.
7. Tokyo Xtreme Racer
Street Racing Done Right
I absolutely love street racing video games, and Tokyo Xtreme Racer provides an exceptional take on races that feels authentic and genuine.
In TXR, while it’s not entirely an open-world game, you can traverse a continuous highway loop for races. Unlike many other racing games, you have the unique ability to challenge opponents spontaneously by signaling them with your lights. Once challenged, the race begins instantly, and instead of racing towards a specific location, you emerge victorious by maintaining a lead so substantial that your opponent can’t possibly catch up.
The idea is captivating, and some competitions are swiftly concluded in just 30 seconds, while others drag on for minutes as you strive to maintain the lead. Although the older TXR games feature traditional races with a fixed finish line, it’s the SP battles that truly hook me. These encounters seem more intimate and personal.
If you’re interested, check out our beginners guide to staying one step ahead of the competition.
6. Assetto Corsa
Perfect With A Steering Wheel
Among the listed games, Assetto Corsa stands out as the most authentic simulator for racing, boasting accurate physics and driving dynamics. Even though I’m not deeply into simulation racing, there’s a particular game mode that makes this title hard to resist.
Assetto Corsa offers a superb drifting feature that encourages players by rewarding them as they maneuver around corners while their tires emit a screeching sound. Drifting in this game is incredibly satisfying because it can be quite challenging. Unlike games such as Need for Speed or Ridge Racer, where the car tends to drift automatically, here you have to put in the effort to master drifting. The skill of learning how to drift effectively becomes addictive.
This suggestion has an important condition attached. If you’re seeking drifting content on a PC, I strongly suggest you consider “Assetto Corsa“. Modifications and custom content significantly enhance its appeal.
5. FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage
Have You Ever Wanted To Be A Stuntman?
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Developer | Bugbear Entertainment |
| Platform | Xbox 360 and PC |
| Release Date | July 2007 |
The FlatOut series offers a diverse experience, though not all games in the series can be wholeheartedly endorsed. However, Ultimate Carnage stands out as a game worth keeping.
In FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage, the main focus is on causing chaos among your competitors as your vehicle skids and spins across harsh landscapes. The cars in this game possess a substantial feel, and there’s even a ‘Derby’ mode where the goal is to outlast all other drivers.
The Derby alone would make FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage worthy of inclusion in any list, but it offers something truly unique. In addition to the standard race, the Stunt mode presents players with over-the-top vehicular mini-games, such as a bizarre take on bowling. The twist? Your driver becomes the ball, launched through the windshield like a doll made of rags!
It’s as ridiculous as it sounds, and there are plenty of events to test your mettle.
4. CarX
Like Dancing With Cars
CarX stands out as an exceptional racing game, primarily appealing due to its focus on drifting and vehicle customization. Unlike other games within this genre, it presents a distinct driving experience that sets it apart.
In CarX, you have the opportunity to engage in a Tandem Racing competition with another participant. This involves trying to stay very close to your fellow racer without causing a collision. You accumulate points by drifting side by side, and it’s all about synchronizing your speed and steering adjustments as you delicately modulate the throttle while navigating corners like an art form.
Tandem Racing lives up to its reputation for being challenging, with a steep learning curve involved. Nevertheless, once mastered, the feeling is exhilarating. Fortunately, the game CarX offers a good replay feature, allowing you to share your best performances with your friends and show off your skills.
3. Burnout Paradise Remastered
A City Made For Carnage
Regrettably, we didn’t receive any more games from the Burnout series after Paradise, but if that turns out to be the final installment, it certainly goes down as an extraordinary game to conclude the series with.
In the game “Burnout Paradise”, you’ll find yourself cruising through the stunning urban landscape of Paradise City. This action-packed racer offers familiar modes such as the Burning Route, essentially a speed test across city streets.
Burnout is well-known for its destructive nature, showcased in the intense competition of the “Road Rage” mode, where damaging opponents takes priority over crossing the finish line.
In addition, there’s the ‘Pursued Persistently’ mode where AI adversaries doggedly chase you as you strive to evade them frantically. Burnout Paradise is cherished for its diverse gameplay experiences, catering to a wide range of players within this captivating urban environment.
2. Need For Speed Hot Pursuit: Remastered
The Finest NFS Game
The original “Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit” stands out as one of the top games within the series and undeniably merits a remastered version.
What’s great is that this game provides various options for racing. Apart from the standard time trials and traditional races, it allows you to assume the role of a law enforcement officer to disrupt illegal street races.
In contrast to Burnout Paradise, the gameplay style of Need For Speed Hot Pursuit varies significantly as it offers weapons such as Spike Strips to hinder your opponents, ensuring a more dynamic and engaging experience.
Instead of having an open world, the game also employs conventional menus, allowing players to quickly access and engage with the desired action or event, streamlining the overall gaming experience.
1. Forza Horizon 5
The AAA Option
As a gaming enthusiast with an Xbox under my control, I bet you’ve had your share of exhilarating rides with Forza Horizon – a dominating force in the racing world for consoles, standing tall alongside Gran Turismo on the PlayStation.
This platform showcases stunning graphics that leave you speechless and offers an extensive variety of events, making it one of the best on the market. You’ll find activities spanning various fields, such as drag racing and off-road competitions. If you need a change from standard races, there’s a story mode to explore. Additionally, EventLab 2.0 allows you to create your unique modes.
Without a doubt, the standout feature in Forza Horizon 5 is the thrilling ‘Eliminator’ mode. This isn’t your typical race; it’s more like a car-themed Battle Royale! In this exciting mode, 72 players engage in intense competition as the play area gradually shrinks until only one fearless racer is left standing victorious.
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2025-03-13 19:11