15 Best Car Games You Should Play in 2024 

Best Car Games You Should Play provide an exhilarating combination of adrenaline-fuelled excitement and immersive gameplay, and “Forza Horizon 4” stands out as an unforgettable masterpiece, boasting stunning graphics, an open world environment and an extensive collection of meticulously detailed cars. Assetto Corsa provides realistic simulation at its finest with excellent driving physics and an extensive lineup of accurately replicated vehicles. “Need for Speed: Heat” provides fast-paced thrills and intense competition with its gripping plotline and exhilarating street races, providing an irresistibly thrilling gaming experience.

“Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” adds an exciting and family-friendly spin to the popular racing genre, blending vibrant visuals with chaotic yet fast races for maximum fun and enjoyment. Gran Turismo Sport caters to casual and hardcore racing enthusiasts alike, providing a visually stunning experience that offers both single-player campaign playback and competitive online racing action. These car games provide something to satisfy every gaming taste from realistic simulations to arcade-style mayhem and provide hours of high-octane entertainment!

How To Choose the Best Car Games You Should Play

Choosing the best car games to play depends on your personal preferences and gaming style. Here are some factors to consider when making your selection:

Genre Preference: Determine whether you prefer realistic simulations, arcade-style racing, open-world exploration, or a mix of different genres. Each type of car game offers a unique gaming experience.

Realism vs. Accessibility: Consider the level of realism you’re looking for. Simulation games like Assetto Corsa and iRacing provide a highly realistic driving experience, while arcade-style games like Mario Kart focus on fun and accessibility.

Graphics and Visuals: Pay attention to the game’s graphics and visuals. High-quality graphics contribute to a more immersive gaming experience, especially if you appreciate realistic car models and detailed environments.

Vehicle Variety: Check the game’s car roster. Some games offer a wide variety of vehicles, from everyday cars to high-performance supercars, while others may focus on specific types of racing or vehicle classes.

Gameplay Features: Consider the gameplay features offered, such as customization options, career modes, multiplayer capabilities, and unique game mechanics. Choose a game that aligns with the aspects of racing that you find most enjoyable.

Multiplayer Options: If you enjoy competing against other players, check the multiplayer options. Look for games with robust online communities, competitive modes, and the ability to race against friends or join leagues.

Storyline and Campaign: Some car games incorporate a compelling storyline or campaign mode. If you enjoy a narrative-driven experience, look for games that offer engaging stories or progression systems.

Platform Compatibility: Ensure that the game is available on the gaming platform you own. Consider whether you prefer playing on a PC, gaming console (PlayStation, Xbox), or if you’re looking for mobile options.

Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews from both critics and players to get an idea of the game’s strengths and weaknesses. Look for feedback on gameplay mechanics, graphics, and overall enjoyment.

Demo or Trial Versions: Whenever possible, try out a demo or trial version of the game. This allows you to experience the gameplay firsthand and determine if it aligns with your preferences before making a purchase.

Updates and Support: Check if the game receives regular updates and support from the developers. Active support can indicate a commitment to fixing bugs, improving gameplay, and adding new content over time.

By considering these factors, you can tailor your choice to match your preferences and find the best car game that provides the gaming experience you’re looking for.

Here Is List of Best Car Games You Should Play in 2024 

• Burnout Paradise Remastered
• Dirt 5
• Forza Horizon 4
• Forza Horizon 5
• Horizon Chase Turbo
• Hotshot Racing
• Lego 2K Drive
• Need for Speed Heat
• Ridge Racer Unbounded
• Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed Collection
• Split/Second
• WRC 10 FIA World Rally Championship
• #Drive
• Hyperburner
• Riptide GP: Renegade

15 Best Car Games You Should Play in 2024 

1. Burnout Paradise Remastered

Burnout Paradise was released for PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in 2008 and remains one of Criterion Games’ premier titles; therefore it only makes sense that Burnout Paradise Remastered would surpass it even further.

PC players now get to experience Big Surf Island and all its potential stunts and havoc from both consoles, and Paradise City remains just as enjoyable whether driving around freely or participating in events.

While some of the original game’s issues (an irritating crash cam and menu quirks) still persist, none of these have enough influence to seriously detract from its satisfying vehicle handling, expansive map and wide variety of unlockables.

2. Dirt 5 (Best Car Games You Should Play)

Dirt 5 by Codemasters recalls the 1990s, when Colin McRae Rally and Sega Rally Championship helped redefine “extreme” racing games. Like its predecessors, Dirt 5 doesn’t focus on realism or deep customization options; rather it invites players to race through winding tracks covered with mud to reach victory.

Dirt 5 may not be entirely original, but it still manages to deliver an exciting racing experience on PC that delivers pure high-speed thrills.

3. Forza Horizon 4

In 2018, Forza Horizon 4 made an unexpectedly swift appearance on PC, leading some people to question its release every two years. But Playground Games assured us that its new features would make buying it worth your while – and they proved right!

With Forza Horizon 4, the exciting racing-and-music festival formula expands further, adding new vehicles, addictive solo and multiplayer modes, seasonal effects, and weather patterns that change how you approach driving – such as when a scenic lake you pass during spring through fall may freeze over in winter and provide you with an alternate route; similarly spring rain muddies courses for cornering difficulties making Forza Horizon 4 even more dynamic than previous installments! Plus the seasons shift weekly so that no single experience lasts too long!

Factoring in Forza Horizon 4’s advanced racing Skills, gorgeous UK environments, returning Barn Finds, and carefully-selected soundtrack, it is clear why Forza Horizon 4 stands as one of the premier PC racing games released recently.

4. Forza Horizon 5

Xbox Game Studios’ popular racing series builds upon each prior title as its basis, and Forza Horizon 5 continues this tradition. You’ll find numerous modes, immersive atmosphere, hip music and thrilling stunts here; but this time around the additions and changes are more evolutionary rather than revolutionary.

Longtime Forza Horizon series fans will appreciate Forza Horizon 5’s varied Mexico setting, robust modes, and innovative new features (the create-a-track EventLab being particularly impressive), while newcomers to the franchise will marvel at its creative riches. In short, Forza Horizon remains one of the greatest racing game series and Forza Horizon 5 is yet another example why so many gamers love it so much.

5. Horizon Chase Turbo

Nowadays, it can be easy to dismiss anything with nostalgic overtones as simply another moneymaking opportunity; yet Horizon Chase Turbo stands out as having enough charm not to fall into that hack category.

Horizon Chase Turbo is an unassuming racing game developed by Aquiris Game Studio that emphasizes boost-boosting and dodging rival vehicles, while providing a unique gameplay angle – collecting gas canisters so as not to run out of fuel – in its gameplay. But its main appeal lies within its visuals.

Horizon Chase Turbo is a stunning game, though perhaps not immediately identifiable due to its flat, polygon-heavy art style that recalls 1990s racing games without jaggies, clipping or other visual flaws associated with that era. Depending on whether or not you drive during day or nighttime hours, pastel tones alternate with cool neon highlights to produce eye-catching graphics that make Horizon Chase Turbo stand out.

Horizon Chase Turbo is an incomparably stunning PC racing game that should be part of your library. Both beautiful to look at and enjoyable to play, Horizon Chase Turbo should not be missing from any collection!

6. Hotshot Racing (Top Car Games You Should Play)

Hotshot Racing recreates 1990s-era arcade-style driving competitions, with its intuitive pick-up-and-play control scheme and low polygon visual aesthetic. Created by Lucky Mountain Games (with help from Sumo Digital’s racing experts) it captures that nostalgic racing feel – mostly.

Hotshot Racing may resemble an Outrun-era racer, but its level design falls short of making for an engaging retro experience. Still, Hotshot Racing provides hours of good entertainment; drift fans will especially enjoy its powersliding gameplay.

7. Lego 2K Drive

Lego 2K Drive offers an entertaining racing game that embraces imagination over reality, taking its inspiration from toy cars themselves.

Though not an open world game, this arcade racer allows you to explore various large open zones. As you drive around these beautiful blocky worlds, competing in races and other wacky events. Your Lego contraption seamlessly transforms between car, offroad vehicle and boat as the action ensues; with boosts, power-ups, chaotic sense of speed and other boosts and power-ups making for an addictive sense of speed!

Lego 2K Drive features comprehensive tools for customizing your car down to every brick, while also including annoying microtransactions. Still, if a LEGO version of Forza Horizon appeals, Lego 2K Drive may be worth purchasing.

8. Need for Speed Heat

Need for Speed: Heat is an exhilarating racing game that successfully emulates what made previous NFS entries such a success: solid racing mechanics, excellent car customization options and thrilling police chases.

Palm City features an innovative day/night mechanic that lets you experience both daytime racing scenes as well as high-stakes underground races in the evening – adding visual variety to both.

Character customization and an enhanced narrative make the game more engaging than its predecessors; even with an unsatisfying multiplayer mode and some confusing controls. Series fans should not hesitate to purchase it!

9. Ridge Racer Unbounded

Ridge Racer may not boast the prestige of Gran Turismo or Forza in today’s video game market, but it still enjoys a strong fan base thanks to its drift-focused racing action.

Bugbear Entertainment’s entry, Shatter Bay Racer, brings chaos into an otherwise familiar experience by adding environmental and vehicular destruction while competing in Shatter Bay for street cred in Shatter Bay’s fictional area of Shatter Bay – think Ridge Racer meets Burnout!

Shatter Bay’s many districts are high-detailed and destructible settings that entice players to race one more match in Ridge Racer Unbounded. When first you can only choose one car and race district – with additional ones unlocked over time by accruing collateral damage points from colliding through anything other than brick walls.

Story-wise, this racing game can easily be overlooked – after all, it is about driving!- but the driving action itself can be both thrilling and varied. For maximum sanity’s sake, play against real opponents if possible!

10. Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed Collection

Kart racing is an arcade-style driving genre characterized by fast driving and unique power-ups designed to take down rival racers or shield you from their attacks, windy tracks and cutesy characters. Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed Collection follows this mold, yet adds another dimension with battles taking place on land, air and water as well as featuring an amazing cast of Sega characters!

This wild racer features Sonic, Amy Rose, Eggman, Knuckles and Tails along with numerous characters from Sega’s long arcade and console history, such as Alex Kidd (Alex Kidd from Miracle World), Amigo from Samba de Amigo, B.D Joe from Crazy Taxi and Beat from Jet Set Radio among many others. You can rev engines with Alex Kidd from Miracle World; Amigo from Samba de Amigo;

B.D Joe from Crazy Taxi and Beat from Jet Set Radio; rev engines using Alex Kidd (Alex Kidd in Miracle World); Amigo from Samba de Amigo; B.D Joe from Crazy Taxi), B D Joe from Crazy Taxi as well as Beat from Jet Set Radio to name just some. Non-Sega characters include Wreck-It Ralph from Disney; retired NASCAR star Danica Patrick retired NASCAR star Danica Patrick as well as Steam exclusive characters Pyro Spy and Heavy from Valve’s Team Fortress 2!

If you enjoy kart racing games with charismatic casts, exciting weapons, and well-designed tracks, Transformed Collection may just surprise you by outdoing its Nintendo Switch counterpart Mario Kart 8 Deluxe! Who knows; perhaps Transformed Collection feels even better!

11. Split/Second (Top Car Games You Should Play)

Split/Second from Black Rock Studio stands out as one of the finest racing game concepts ever conceived. Set against a backdrop of an in-game reality television program where participants compete for fame and riches, Split/Second sees contestants using PowerPlays – special moves designed to cause chaos while racing towards their destination – in order to push them closer.

As you master drafting, drifting, and jumping techniques you will earn PowerPlay points. Once at least one tier of the PowerPlay meter has been filled you can detonate certain objects from the environment when driven near by rival racers – you will know this by an appearance of blue icons near objects in the environment – making for an immensely satisfying feeling when your helicopter starts dropping bombs on them when unleashing your PowerPlay attack!

Split/Second’s combination of arcade-style racing with massive, environment-wrecking explosions makes for an exhilarating racer that will keep you hugging corners, jostling for position, and downing jumbo jets well into the night. Unfortunately, Split/Second servers have gone offline; you must therefore compete locally against other people.

12. WRC 10 FIA World Rally Championship

Developer KT Racing marks 50 years of World Rally Championship with WRC 10, an interactive multiplayer racing title from developer KT Racing. Alongside new tracks and challenges, WRC 10 features classic races from past events as well as tight controls with photorealistic vehicles and environments – not radically different from WRC 8 and 9, but offering incremental improvements that add up to an improved overall title experience.

WRC 10 offers everything simulation racing fans could possibly desire in a racing simulation game, from its career mode and solo/multiplayer options, to its career mode and numerous solo/multiplayer challenges. Overall, KT Racing’s WRC 10 effort honors its legacy while featuring some notable bugs.

13. Drive

Drive is an arcade endless racer of uncommonly high quality. From its procedurally generated landscapes and bold yet beautiful graphics, there is much to appreciate beyond gameplay – though #Drive’s fast-paced racing will likely keep your attention focused elsewhere!

Drive is an engaging cartoony racing game with plenty of excitement, perfect for people seeking quick racing games that offer high levels of entertainment.

14. Hyperburner

Hyperburner puts you in control of a spaceship through multiple challenging courses, dodging asteroids and space stations at high speeds. Although Hyperburner is easy to learn, mastery takes time and patience – making this racing game perfect for perfectionists!

Hyperburner may seem simplistic at times, but it’s an enjoyable game in which you can lose yourself for hours. Be sure to adjust the sensitivity as soon as you begin playing as it may feel too sensitive at first.

15. Riptide GP: Renegade (Best Car Games You Should Play)

Riptide GP: Renegade’s captivating graphics, thrilling soundtrack, and distinctive racing mechanics make it a must-play racing game. It boasts stunning visuals; however, one of the top Android gaming phones may help prevent framerate drops at higher settings.

Riptide GP: Renegade’s races are short and sweet, making them easy to fit into your commute to work. Though its learning curve may seem steep at first, with practice comes mastering its controls quickly. If you find yourself struggling to handle your hydro jet’s controls properly, try picking up an Android controller for greater control over acceleration and turning.

Why Best Car Games You Should Play

The choice of the best car games to play depends on several factors, and the decision ultimately comes down to individual preferences and gaming objectives. Here are some reasons why certain car games might be considered the best:

Diverse Gaming Experiences: Different car games cater to a variety of gaming experiences. Whether you’re into realistic simulations, arcade-style fun, open-world exploration, or competitive multiplayer racing, the best car game for you will align with your preferred style of play.

Immersive Graphics and Realism: Many top car games are known for their stunning graphics and realistic visuals. Immersive graphics enhance the gaming experience, making it feel more authentic and engaging, especially for players who appreciate attention to detail in car models and environments.

Innovative Gameplay Mechanics: The best car games often introduce innovative gameplay mechanics or unique features that set them apart. This could include advanced physics simulations, dynamic weather systems, extensive customization options, or inventive game modes.

Extensive Vehicle Rosters: A diverse and extensive selection of vehicles, from everyday cars to high-performance supercars, can contribute to the appeal of a car game. Players often appreciate having a wide range of options to choose from, allowing them to explore various driving styles and preferences.

Multiplayer Opportunities: The best car games often provide robust multiplayer options, allowing players to compete against others online. A thriving online community, competitive modes, and the ability to race against friends contribute to the longevity and replayability of a game.

Compelling Storylines or Campaigns: Some car games incorporate compelling storylines or campaign modes, providing players with a narrative-driven experience. This can add depth to the gameplay, offering a sense of progression and accomplishment beyond just racing.

Positive Reviews and Ratings: Games that receive positive reviews and high ratings from both critics and players are often considered the best. Positive feedback indicates that the game successfully delivers on its promises, providing an enjoyable and satisfying gaming experience.

Platform Compatibility: The best car games are accessible on the gaming platform of choice for the player. Whether on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, or mobile devices, the availability of the game on the preferred platform is a crucial factor in determining its suitability.

Active Developer Support: Games that receive ongoing support from developers, including regular updates, bug fixes, and additional content, demonstrate a commitment to the player community. This support can enhance the overall experience and longevity of the game.

Ultimately, the best car games offer a combination of these factors, tailored to the preferences and expectations of the individual player. Whether seeking a realistic simulation, an arcade-style thrill, or a blend of both, players can find a car game that resonates with their gaming preferences.

Key Features Of Best Car Games You Should Play 

The best car games often share key features that contribute to an immersive and enjoyable gaming experience. Here are some key features commonly found in top-tier car games:

Realistic Graphics and Visuals: High-quality graphics and realistic visuals contribute to an immersive gaming experience. Detailed car models, dynamic environments, and realistic lighting enhance the overall visual appeal of the game.

Authentic Driving Physics: Realistic driving physics are crucial for simulation-oriented car games. Accurate representations of vehicle handling, tire grip, and physics create a more authentic driving experience, appealing to players who appreciate a simulation-style approach.

Diverse Vehicle Roster: A wide and diverse selection of vehicles, ranging from everyday cars to high-performance supercars, allows players to explore different driving styles and preferences. The inclusion of iconic and licensed vehicles adds authenticity to the game.

Customization Options: Extensive customization options for vehicles, including modifications to performance, appearance, and tuning, allow players to personalize their cars. This feature adds depth to the gameplay and caters to those who enjoy fine-tuning their vehicles.

Varied Game Modes: The best car games offer a variety of game modes to keep players engaged. This may include single-player campaigns, multiplayer races, time trials, drift challenges, and more. A diverse range of game modes ensures there’s something for every type of player.

Open-World Exploration: Open-world environments provide players with the freedom to explore vast landscapes. This feature is often seen in games like Forza Horizon, allowing players to drive freely, discover hidden areas, and participate in dynamic events.

Multiplayer Features: Robust multiplayer features, such as online racing, leaderboards, and cooperative play, enhance the social aspect of the game. The ability to race against friends or join competitive online communities adds replayability.

Dynamic Weather and Day-Night Cycle: Dynamic weather conditions and a day-night cycle add realism and challenge to the gameplay. Rain, snow, and changing lighting conditions can affect the handling of vehicles, creating a more dynamic and immersive experience.

Engaging Storyline or Progression System: For games with a more narrative focus, an engaging storyline or a well-structured progression system can keep players invested. This feature is common in both simulation and arcade-style games, offering a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Regular Updates and Support: Active developer support, including regular updates, bug fixes, and the addition of new content, demonstrates a commitment to the player community. Ongoing support helps maintain the game’s relevance and longevity.

Cross-Platform Compatibility: The option for cross-platform play allows players on different gaming platforms to compete against each other. This feature promotes inclusivity and expands the pool of potential opponents for multiplayer races.

Realistic Audio Design: Realistic engine sounds, tire screeches, and environmental audio contribute to the overall immersion. High-quality audio design enhances the sensory experience of driving in the game.

Accessibility Options: The inclusion of accessibility options, such as customizable difficulty settings, assists, and control schemes, ensures that the game can be enjoyed by a broad range of players, from beginners to experienced gamers.

By incorporating these key features, the best car games offer a well-rounded and captivating experience for players, appealing to a diverse audience with varying preferences in the racing game genre.

Best Car Games You Should Play Conclusion

Conclusion Ultimately, car games provide a variety of entertaining experiences that appeal to a broad spectrum of gaming tastes and preferences. The best car games shine by offering realistic graphics, authentic driving physics, and an exciting range of vehicles to create an engaging gaming experience. No matter your taste in gaming, from adrenaline-pumping street races like “Need for Speed: Heat,” open-world exploration like “Forza Horizon 4,” or realistic simulations such as “Assetto Corsa,” there’s sure to be something out there for you!

Features such as extensive customization options, varied game modes and engaging storylines only add to the charm of these games. With support from developers, vibrant multiplayer communities, and dedication to innovation, the top car games continue to captivate players for hours of high-octane entertainment. From casual gamers to racing enthusiasts alike, these car games provide an entertaining journey into virtual driving – making them essential playables for anyone seeking an adrenaline rush!

Best Car Games You Should Play FAQ