Hey everyone! Today we’re counting down our picks for the best arcade racing games that you should check out.
And without further ado, let’s dive right in.
#25. Gravel
- Release Date: 2018
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
First things first, I must let you know that the games in this list are racing games with arcade-style physics, not necessarily ones found in old-school arcade machines. So, if you’re a bit old, don’t expect those 90s arcade racing games here.
Anyway, this is a rally racing game that’s entertaining overall, but the collisions can feel overly dramatic, sending cars flying like space shuttles.
However, the game’s fast pace and enjoyable driving experience shine through, especially when you’ve mastered the controls. So, if you’re interested in rallycross, rally raid, or other type of offroad races, check this one out.
#24. Asphalt Legends Unite
- Release Date: 2024
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Now, if you want an over-the-top arcade racing experience with lots of jumps, stunts and even spins, then definitely get this one, especially since it’s available on all modern gaming platforms.
As you can see, it looks ridiculous and fun at the same time, particularly if you’re into this type of game. Sure, the Asphalt series are known to be mobile-first racers, but this one is actually great on PC and consoles.
So, if you want something that feels like the Burnout games but with crazy tricks and jumps, definitely get this one while it’s still fresh.
#23. Cruis’n Blast
- Release Date: 2021
- Platform: SWITCH
Alright, if you remember spending your coins on Cruis’n USA or Cruis’n World from the 90s, you’ll probably like this one too because this one is the latest game in the Cruis’n series.
The game was originally released on arcades back in 2017, but a version for the Switch with additional modes, cars, and tracks was released in 2021. And as you can see, it’s really fun if you just want to do some racing sessions after a long day at work—that is, if you have a job, of course.
So, if you’re an old-timer, this one’s a no-brainer.
#22. Road Redemption
- Release Date: 2017
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Now, this game is here to scratch that Road Rash itch with a vengeance.
Imagine racing at insane speeds, smashing rivals to bits with various weapons, all set in a gritty, post-apocalyptic world. Not only that, the controls are tighter than your favorite pair of jeans. And the combat? Oh boy, it’s satisfyingly brutal and fun.
And with a campaign that sucks you right into the chaos and multiplayer options to keep the adrenaline pumping, this game is pure, unadulterated fun. So, if you’re into motorcycle combat racing experience, this one is an absolute must-play.
#21. Team Sonic Racing
- Release Date: 2019
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Okay, I know I know, this game isn’t as good as the predecessor, which is Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed. It’s not as fast, and not as fun. But you know what? It’s still a great game, and since it’s available on all modern platforms, maybe it’s time to move on and give this newer game a shot.
And unlike most kart racing games, this one has a unique gameplay mechanic, which is the team-based coop gameplay that force us to work together with our teammates in order to win. So, yeah, definitely check this one out.
#20. GRIP: Combat Racing
- Release Date: 2018
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Now, this one is basically a modern take on old-school futuristic racing games like Rollcage or Firebugs—but now, you can experience it in much crisper visuals.
However, what makes this game different from other futuristic racing games is that this one is not an anti-gravity racing game, unlike Wipeout or Redout or basically the average futuristic racing game. Instead, the cars actually have wheels, though sci-fi elements are still present, such as driving on walls or even upside down.
But overall, if you like unrealistic racing games, you should definitely check this one out as it often goes on sale.
#19. Trackmania
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
Now, although this game might seem like a racing game, it’s actually catered more toward speedrun-oriented players than traditional racing fans.
But still, it has that arcade racing vibes due to the physics and simple and easy-to-learn gameplay. In short, it’s all about executing the right inputs at the right time alongside the obsession of perfecting every track and beating records.
So yeah, although the gameplay mechanics are different compared to most arcade racers, if you enjoy simple racing games and haven’t checked out the Trackmania series, you definitely should—there’s a high chance you’ll like them.
#18. Riptide GP: Renegade
- Release Date: 2016
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Now, if you miss the good ol’ Hydro Thunder games, this one might catch your interest since it was developed by the dev behind Hydro Thunder Hurricane.
I mean, the jetskis are futuristic and cool, the stunts are crazy and fun, the races are well-designed, and you know what? It has a local 4-player split-screen mode, so you can now start finding excuses for losing when you play with your friends—assuming you have friends, of course.
So, if you’re looking for a fresh racing experience, give this one a go. And this one often goes on sale, too!
#17. The Crew Motorfest
- Release Date: 2023
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
Okay, this is the latest The Crew game, and in my opinion, it has the best graphics. And just like the previous game, boats and planes are back, although they’re not the most popular aspect of the game.
There are also playlists in this game—which are basically handcrafted race events that are fun if you love games with objectives.
Anyway, this game will only appeal to certain players—if you love structured, fun, but somewhat repetitive content, you’ll probably enjoy it. Basically, this is your typical Ubisoft open world game with tons of objectives and missions.
#16. Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit Remastered
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
For those of you who don’t know, this game is one of the most legendary Need for Speed titles ever, and now its remastered version brings it to modern platforms with sharper graphics.
Sure, some people might argue that the remaster isn’t worth the extra cost, but guess what? It’s cheap as hell and frequently on sale—so if you still can’t afford it, gaming might not be your biggest problem.
So, if you’re looking for a full-blown Need for Speed arcade racing experience, make sure this one is on your list.
#15. Need for Speed Unbound
- Release Date: 2022
- Platform: PC, PS5, XSX/S
This one is currently the latest and hottest Need for Speed game, and I think it has the most unique visuals due to its visual effects and character designs. But the rest of the game is enjoyable too, in my opinion.
But what about the hate for this game? Well, with Need for Speed games, there’s a pattern, you see. Here’s how it goes: the latest installment will be hated, but as soon as a new game comes up, it will suddenly be called underrated, while the new game gets hated on. It’s weird, I know, but it’s true.
#14. Need for Speed: Most Wanted
- Release Date: 2012
- Platform: PC
Now, if you’re expecting a remake of the original Most Wanted, you might be disappointed with this one. But don’t get me wrong, this game is great, especially with the car mechanics and the stunning visuals. It’s just more like a Burnout game than a Need for Speed game. And if you played Burnout Paradise, you’ll find some familiarity in this one.
However, I don’t mind this game offering a different experience compared to the others in the franchise, and neither should you. In the end, if you like it, then play it. Don’t listen to the basement dwellers.
#13. Redout 2
- Release Date: 2022
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Alright, if you want to play Wipeout but don’t have a PS5 or a PS4, then this one is the futuristic anti-gravity arcade racer you need.
The first game was a hit in the genre, and this sequel delivers the same exhilarating thrill of pulling off extremely high speed in a futuristic world.
Overall, it looks stunning, it feels fast, and it is an absolute blast to race sci-fi flying cars while vibing to electronic music from talented artists. So, if you’re a Wipeout fan, then getting this one’s a no-brainer.
#12. Split/Second
- Release Date: 2010
- Platform: PC, XSX/S, X1
Now, this was one of the most legendary arcade racing games back when the PS3 was still the king of gaming consoles.
But sadly, not many people remember or have even heard of it today, since it never evolved into a long-running series like Burnout or Need for Speed. But whatever—it’s still playable, and it’s still great, especially in split-screen multiplayer with friends… assuming you have any.
Anyway, if you’re into arcade racing games that much, this one’s a must-play. Oh, and thanks to backward compatibility, it’s available on Xbox consoles too.
#11. Hotshot Racing
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Okay, if you love simple arcade racers with cartoony or low-poly graphics, then this one is a perfect game for you.
I mean, just look at it—it’s the kind of game you can play on the go or while waiting at the hospital during your visit to your cardiologist. No complex mechanics, no fancy graphics—just a pure, simple, and colorful arcade racer you can enjoy with your kids.
And yes, it supports four-player split-screen multiplayer! That means now you can finally pretend you’re great at racing games… against your imaginary friends.
#10. Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged
- Release Date: 2023
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Now, this one is currently the go-to toy car racing game out there. And yes, toy car racing is its own genre—which I’ll make a video about later.
Anyway, the first game was great and fun, and this one is bigger and better in almost every way. Plus, it’s a Hot Wheels game, and I love Hot Wheels games no matter how bad they are—so yeah, I’m totally biased here.
So, if you’re into toy car or mini car racing games, this one—along with the first game—is a must-have.
#9. Blur
- Release Date: 2010
- Platform: PC
This game, along with Split/Second, was one of the go-to arcade racers to play with friends back when split-screen multiplayer was the standard in racing games.
It’s basically an arcade racing game with power-ups—think Need for Speed or Burnout mixed with Mario Kart. So yeah, it might look odd compared to modern racing games, which focus more on realism and accurate physics.
That said, it’s still a blast to play with others—that is, if you can get your hands on a copy and make it work. And trust me, it’s worth tracking down just to relive the split-screen multiplayer experience.
#8. Burnout Paradise Remastered
- Release Date: 2018
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
This game was the last full-blown Burnout title ever released, which is a shame, especially since Burnout was one of the most legendary racing game franchises, especially if you played the first few games.
So, basically, this is the only open-world Burnout game, and it’s a blast—especially if you don’t care about realism and just want to do insane stunts without any learning curve. Oh, and there are bikes too, just so you know.
Anyway, the remaster is available for all modern consoles, including the Switch. So if you’re feeling nostalgic, definitely grab this remaster.
#7. DiRT 5
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
The DiRT Rally series is famous for its realistic rally simulation—but this isn’t DiRT Rally, it’s just DiRT.
So, if you’re a sim racer, this ain’t the game for you. This one is built for those who enjoy arcade racing with great graphics. Sure, the rally physics aren’t the most accurate—but let’s be real, that’s not why we play arcade racers, right?
So, yeah, this is the perfect game if you just want to feel like a rally driver without spending hours mastering every turn just to avoid crashing in a video game.
#6. Horizon Chase 2
- Release Date: 2022
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Now, this game—along with its predecessor—is a retro-styled arcade racing game that perfectly captures what makes retro racing games so addictive while adding modern enhancements.
Seriously, the world is colorful and vibrant, the game is easy to pick up and play, and the music takes us back to the old school era. So, yeah, it’s basically the perfect formula for a fun, casual racing game to play for the average joe.
So, if you miss the good old days of simple, fast-paced racers, then this title—along with the first game, titled Horizon Chase Turbo—is all you need.
#5. Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled
- Release Date: 2019
- Platform: PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
This game is not your typical arcade racer. In fact, it’s a kart racer in a league of its own. I know, Mario Kart fans might not like hearing this, but I don’t care.
But seriously, it’s really fun to do the powerslide and get a boost after doing it perfectly. And for people who have mastered it, driving straight isn’t an option anymore.
Not only that, if you can master the powerslide, winning is almost always guaranteed, especially against your clueless friends in a local couch multiplayer—that is, if you have any friends at all.
#4. Wipeout: Omega Collection
- Release Date: 2017
- Platform: PS5, PS4
Okay, I know we haven’t had a new Wipeout game in god knows how many years, but hey, at least we have this.
Anyway, this is a remaster of Wipeout HD and Wipeout 2048, now with modern graphics and VR support—which is great if you’ve got the stomach for it. After all, it’s Wipeout—it’s supposed to make you feel the rush of high speed.
So, if you’re a Wipeout fan and want to experience what it’s like to pilot one of these futuristic vehicles, definitely grab this one—you won’t regret it.
#3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
- Release Date: 2017
- Platform: SWITCH
Now, I don’t think I need to convince anyone that this is a great game. I mean, it’s Mario Kart—the most popular kart racer, hell, maybe even the most popular arcade racer in history.
However, I’m not saying it’s my favorite, though, because Crash Team Racing will be in my heart forever, but this game is just built different. Nintendo sure knows how to make incredibly fun games for casual players—I mean just look at their track record of successful games!
So, what are you waiting for? If you own a Switch, grab this one already!
#2. Forza Horizon 4
- Release Date: 2018
- Platform: PC, XSX/S, X1
I get that Forza Horizon 5 is now the go-to open world racing game, but that doesn’t mean Forza Horizon 4 is outdated. In fact, thousands of players still enjoy this one, despite the newer game also being a massive hit.
And honestly, you can’t really compare the two since both have their strong points, especially when it comes to the open world. This one has a better map, especially with its dynamic seasons. And for some people, the map is more important than the cars. So, if you’re that type of player, definitely go for this one.
#1. Forza Horizon 5
- Release Date: 2021
- Platform: PC, XSX/S, X1
Now, this game is currently the top choice for anyone looking for a fun arcade racing and free roam experience.
And just like its predecessors, the graphics are stunning, and there’s a huge variety of cars. And while the focus is mainly on sports and supercars, it doesn’t neglect other types of vehicles. As we can see, the large selection of cars is definitely one of the main selling points here.
So, if you’re not a hardcore racing sim enthusiast and you don’t mind playing a more straightforward fun arcade racer, definitely pick this one up.
So, do you agree with our picks?
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