Best Switch Racing Games Like Forza Horizon

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These days, there’s no scarcity of games available on the Switch, even in the category of racers and driving games, which used to be quite sparse. However, it’s hard to ignore the absence of a significant presence that is usually associated with Forza Horizon, a game often cited as one of the grandest, most alluring racing epics ever created.

It makes sense that Microsoft’s Game Pass on Switch hasn’t materialized yet, given the likely hardware requirements for games might be too much for Nintendo’s system to handle. However, Nintendo fans should take heart as there’s an expanding collection of racers that not only offer exciting gameplay but also incorporate some aspects similar to Forza Horizon (FH) in a unique manner.

10. Hot Wheels Unleashed & Its Sequel, Turbocharged

Remember That Forza Horizon Hot Wheels DLC?

Many collectors and young players were eager for a complete game focused on the Hot Wheels brand after its integration into Forza Horizon 3 expansion and FH4 Car Pack. This 2021 racing game developed by Milestone now adds to a limited list (consisting mostly of lesser-known titles) that caters to this desire.

Unleashed captures the appealing characteristics of slot car playsets like Hot Wheels, featuring miniature tracks against familiar home settings and a third-person perspective. Although it presents a more toyish style compared to the polished aesthetics and high-fidelity realism in Horizon, this engaging racer excels with its heart-pounding speeds and an array of vibrant, eye-catching vehicles.

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is also great.

9. Rocket League

The Ultimate Competitive Driving Game

For enthusiasts of Playground Games’ popular racing titles, Rocket League could be an appealing alternative, despite its distinct differences in various aspects. Rocket League, developed by Psyonix, has carved out a unique niche in the world of multiplayer games, offering a blend of social gaming, online combat, and competitive esports events. It essentially redefines what a driving game can be within the context of a soccer-themed competition.

Regardless of their distinct qualities, Rocket League shares the high-speed, action-packed, and responsive gameplay that’s reminiscent of Forza in a competitive environment. The game is similarly engaging due to its ongoing cycle of rotating events, fresh car launches, and even expanded game modes.

8. Horizon Chase Turbo

A Charming Throwback To Racers From Yesteryear

Although they have a similar title element, this current tribute to NES racers doesn’t closely resemble the faster, more dynamic Forza Horizon. However, like Playground Games’ hit, Horizon Chase Turbo successfully satisfies that frantic arcade-style racing craving for enthusiasts. Although it takes a completely different path, both games evoke memories of the exhilarating ’90s racing adventures.

The unassuming art style of Horizon Chase Turbo hides a wealth of challenging content that rivals the excitement and difficulty found in contemporary racing games. As players speed through vibrant landscapes, they’ll encounter a full campaign filled with tracks, and can even race against up to three friends simultaneously in split-screen mode.

7. Hotshot Racing

Arcade-Style Racer That Has More Variety Than Initially Might Seem To Be The Case

In a trailblazing move for the resurgence of retro racing games, Horizon Chase Turbo paved the way, and Sumo Digital and Lucky Mountain Games joyfully followed suit with 2020’s Hotshot Racing. Just as in Horizon Chase Turbo, this throwback racing tribute showcases quick, responsive gameplay mechanics and charming late-80s polygons.

This game distinctively branches out on its own path, featuring more intricate tracks and engaging activities such as ‘Cops and Robbers’ and ‘Drive or Explode,’ reminiscent of the thrilling action movie “Speed.” With its arcade-style excitement, competitive challenges, and a focus on drifting, fans of Forza Horizon should find plenty to enjoy, even with some notable differences.

6. Gear.Club Unlimited 2

Switch Exclusive With Customization And Solid Controls

In terms of content, there’s a significant amount of common ground between Playground Games’ racing juggernaut and Eden Games’ Gear.Club Unlimited 2. This impressive follow-up shares similarities by combining in-depth simulation racing with arcade-style speed, all while offering an extensive range of customizable vehicles. Additionally, it includes a useful “rewind” feature that enables players to easily redo certain sections for brief periods.

In the sequel titled “Unlimited 2“, various scenarios featuring daylight changes, seasons, and environmental settings are offered to maintain interest. With more than 50 vehicles at your disposal, 250 tracks, and approximately 1,800 miles of road in total, you’ll find a wealth of engaging, varied content that keeps things exciting.

5. Grid Autosport

Extremely Fast Racer That Blends Sim And Arcade Elements

As the ninth installment of the TOCA series, the Codemasters franchise has steadily established a commendable reputation throughout its multi-decade existence. Now, for the first time, it’s stepping onto the Switch platform with this touring car and motor racing title, leaving an indelible impression.

In simpler terms, Grid Autosport simplifies some complex elements found in its earlier versions, yet preserves a contemporary level of detail and style, reminiscent of its original essence. This game provides a strong base, offers engaging mechanics that are simple to grasp but challenging to perfect. Its qualities, coupled with its rich content, make it one of the top racers available on Nintendo Switch.

4. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

The Definitive Switch Racing Game

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but acknowledge the stark contrast between the thrilling chaos of Nintendo’s iconic kart racer and the polished elegance of another favorite game. Yet, when it comes to discussing standout racers on the Switch, omitting this timeless party game from the conversation feels like a missed opportunity. There is indeed a shared ground—both Mario Kart 8 and the other game (let’s call it FH) are marquee racing titles for their respective consoles.

Building upon its strong foundation from the Wii U version, this refined remake offers even more enjoyable content with enhanced graphics, additional downloadable content, and an upgraded Battle Mode. However, it’s the thrilling local and online multiplayer experience that continues to captivate, never losing its appeal.

3. Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit Remastered

Best For Mission-Based Races

Over the years, the popular racing series by EA has been brimming with innovative ideas and adjustments, some developers even putting their own twist on the gameplay formula. In this 2010 release, Criterion has successfully struck a balance between arcade and sim racing, providing an assortment of events that emphasize different aspects to varying degrees.

The vibe of the studio’s “Burnout” is noticeable in “Hot Pursuit”, particularly during intense moments that celebrate combat and aggressive driving. These instances often involve high-speed chases involving police forces or catching up to rogue racers, acting as the pursuer or the pursued. Similar to “FH”, players can invest a lot of time in navigating diverse races and challenges; each one offering its unique thrill.

2. Burnout Paradise Remastered

Awesome Arcade Racer Set In A Perfectly-Sized Open-World

In much the same way as Forza Motorsport, the Burnout series underwent a substantial open-world transformation that fans didn’t necessarily anticipate. Originating more than a decade ago, Criterion’s Burnout Paradise was somewhat ahead of its time with its extensive gameplay and (semi) sandbox features. The polished remaster on Switch provides it with a contemporary sheen and further deepens the game’s already modern atmosphere.

In “Burnout Paradise”, the elements that initially drew gamers in – the arcade-style and action-packed gameplay, with events such as Showtime promoting destruction – are still present. Moreover, players have the freedom to explore a vast open world map on their own terms or compete in solo or multiplayer races. They can even pick their preferred routes to reach the end.

1. LEGO 2K Drive

An Open-World Racer With Good Controls And Visuals

Although it might not be the top racing game for Nintendo Switch, Lego 2K Drive seems to get pretty close to mirroring the formula of Forza Horizon. It manages this while still maintaining a unique feel that’s distinct from Playground’s franchise, thanks to its license-based concepts. This game is set in an open-world divided into various biomes and boasts impressive visuals. Control-wise, it handles well, even though it’s essentially a kart racer rather than a more “realistic” arcade racer.

Despite the story being rather ordinary, Lego 2K Drive can still be an enjoyable choice if you’re looking for some casual driving fun. You can cruise around a sizable map at your leisure and engage in occasional events. The selection of cars is respectable, and there’s even the unique feature of constructing vehicles with Lego bricks.

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2025-01-07 17:25