Alright, so you’re looking for the best racing games on PC, huh? It’s a huge world out there, with tons of options, from super realistic simulations to wild, arcade-style fun. We’ve gone through a bunch of them to put together this guide, focusing on the ones that really stand out. Whether you like cruising in open worlds or hitting the track for serious competition, we’ve got you covered. This list should help you find your next favorite racing game.
Key Takeaways
- PC has a ton of racing games, including both sim and arcade styles.
- Games like Forza Horizon 5 offer open-world fun, while Assetto Corsa Competizione is for serious sim racers.
- Some older, but still great, racing games like Burnout Paradise are worth checking out.
- A good controller or steering wheel can really make a difference for racing games on PC.
- This guide covers a variety of racing games, so there’s something for everyone, no matter your preference.
1. Forza Horizon 5
Forza Horizon 5 takes the top spot, and for good reason. Playground Games has really refined the open-world racing formula. It’s not about reinventing the wheel, but about polishing every aspect to a mirror sheen. The game transports you to Mexico, a landscape that’s 50% bigger than Horizon 4’s UK setting. Think vast deserts, charming towns, and stunning canyons.
The seasonal playlist is a core element, constantly throwing new challenges your way. You’ll be digging deep into your garage to find the right ride for each event, all in the pursuit of rare and exclusive cars. It’s almost like a looter shooter, but with cars! The weather effects are also a standout, with storms that can kick up some serious wind at a moment’s notice. It’s a blast to see the Forza Horizon 5 map come alive.
Here’s what makes it so good:
- Huge open world to explore.
- Tons of cars to collect and customize.
- Regular updates and seasonal events.
- Beautiful graphics and dynamic weather.
2. Wreckfest 2
Okay, so Wreckfest 2 is here, and it’s all about causing mayhem. Forget pristine racing lines; this game encourages you to smash into your opponents. The goal? Usually to cross the finish line first, but taking out the competition is a perfectly valid strategy. Think demolition derby meets racing, and you’re on the right track. The damage model is seriously impressive, and seeing cars crumple and fall apart is half the fun.
It’s currently in early access, so it’s not a complete package just yet. The developers are planning to add more tracks, vehicles, and a full-blown career mode. But even in its current state, it’s a blast. Imagine pitting a school bus against a tiny little golf cart – that’s the kind of ridiculousness you can expect. There are also elimination modes where the last car running wins. Grab some friends, jump online, and prepare for some seriously funny racing moments. It’s the kind of game where losing a wheel is just another opportunity to cause more chaos. I think we need more games like this, honestly. It’s a great reminder that racing games don’t always have to be about hitting apexes and shaving off milliseconds. Sometimes, it’s just about pure, unadulterated fun.
3. Disney Speedstorm
Okay, so maybe you’re looking for something a little less…serious. Something with a bit more magic. Well, look no further than Disney Speedstorm. It’s basically Mario Kart, but with Disney characters. What’s not to love?
Disney Speedstorm is one of the few kart racers on PC that has a lively online community. Gameloft, the folks behind the Asphalt series, developed it, so you know the racing is gonna be solid. And the best part? It’s free-to-play! You can check customer reviews to see what others think.
Think about it: Mickey Mouse racing against Captain Jack Sparrow on tracks inspired by Monsters, Inc. and Pirates of the Caribbean. It’s pure, unadulterated fun. Gameloft keeps adding new content, too, so there’s always something fresh to experience. Cross-platform play means you can race against your friends no matter what platform they’re on.
Here’s a quick rundown of why you might want to give it a shot:
- Free-to-play: Can’t beat the price!
- Disney characters: Who doesn’t love Disney?
- Cross-platform play: Race with all your friends.
- Regular updates: New content keeps things interesting.
Honestly, if you’re looking for a fun, casual racing game, Disney Speedstorm is a great choice. Just don’t expect it to be super realistic or anything. It’s all about the fun!
4. Assetto Corsa Competizione
Assetto Corsa Competizione (ACC) is a must-have for sim racing fans. Launched in 2019, it takes a more competitive approach compared to the original Assetto Corsa. It’s the official game of the GT World Challenge, offering series-specific competitions and cars with extreme realism. The game’s focus on realism and its selection of cars and tracks set it apart.
There are a few key differences between ACC and the original Assetto Corsa. For example, Assetto Corsa allows modding of cars, while ACC does not. ACC also has more weather options, like rain, while Assetto Corsa is limited to basic settings such as wind and day/night cycles. Both games support a wide range of racing accessories, including wheels, gamepads, VR headsets, and motion systems. You can race online and offline against AI, so there’s always someone to test your skills against. ACC uses Unreal Engine 4, which makes for stunning graphics!
ACC strikes a balance between authenticity and driveability. The driver academy and solo career modes are friendly for new players, but even after years of playing, you’ll still be chasing those top lap times. The game’s vehicle handling, tire and brake temp modeling, and well-scanned tracks are all top-notch. The server interface isn’t the best, but its popularity means there’s a thriving community with third-party online racing infrastructure. Despite some issues with cheaters, ACC remains a top sim racing choice. If you’re looking to improve your ACC experience, there are many resources available online.
5. iRacing
Okay, so iRacing. This one’s a bit different. It’s not just a game; it’s more like a simulator, and a pretty serious one at that. Think of it as the place where aspiring racers go to hone their skills, and where seasoned pros keep their edge sharp. It’s been around since 2008, which is ancient in video game years, but it’s still considered the top motorsport simulator by many.
The level of realism is what sets iRacing apart. They laser-scan the tracks and cars to make sure everything is as accurate as possible. Plus, they enforce real-world racing rules, so you can’t just go around bumping people off the track without consequences. You actually have a safety rating, and if you drive like a maniac, your rating will drop. Drive clean, and you’ll progress from rookie to pro.
It’s a subscription-based service, which means you pay a monthly fee to access the game and its content. The base subscription gives you a bunch of cars and tracks, but you can buy more if you want. They have everything from stock cars to sprint cars to touring cars. It can get a little pricey, but for serious sim racers, it’s worth it.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect:
- Realistic Physics: The driving mechanics are super realistic, so you’ll need a good force feedback wheel to get the most out of it.
- Online Leagues: There are tons of online leagues to join, so you can race against other people from all over the world. There are over 400 different leagues, so you’re sure to find one that fits your interests.
- Career Progression: You start as a rookie and work your way up the ranks by driving clean and winning races.
- Official Races: iRacing hosts official races with cash prizes, so if you’re good enough, you can actually make a career out of it.
One thing to keep in mind is that iRacing doesn’t really have a single-player mode. It’s all about online racing. And you pretty much need a wheel to play it. Gamepad support is minimal. But if you’re looking for the most authentic racing experience on PC, iRacing is the way to go. It’s not cheap, and it takes dedication, but the rewards are worth it for the right kind of sim racing fan.
6. The Crew Motorfest
Okay, so The Crew Motorfest is the newest kid on the block, and it’s trying really hard to be cool. It definitely takes a few pages from the Forza Horizon playbook, but honestly, that’s not a bad thing. The handling is way better than previous Crew games, and the graphics got a nice bump too.
I gotta say, the voice acting can be a bit much at first. They’re just so hyped about everything! But after a while, you kind of get used to it, and maybe even start feeding off their energy. What really sets this game apart are the playlists. They totally change up the environment based on the theme of the challenge. One minute you’re cruising through city streets, the next you’re tearing it up in the mud. It keeps things fresh, and you never really know what’s coming next. It’s a fun racing experience that’s worth checking out, especially if you’re looking for something a little different. You can find exclusive hacks for this game online.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Better handling than previous games
- Graphics are improved
- Playlists keep the game fresh
7. Burnout Paradise
Okay, let’s talk about Burnout Paradise. This game is just pure, unadulterated fun. It’s not about hyper-realistic simulations or meticulously tuned vehicles. It’s about speed, crashes, and a whole lot of destruction. I remember when it first came out, I was hooked for weeks. The open-world aspect was such a breath of fresh air, and the challenges were always exciting. It’s one of those games you can just pick up and play anytime, without needing to remember a million different controls or strategies.
The sense of speed in Burnout Paradise is phenomenal. You’re constantly pushing the limits, weaving through traffic, and launching off ramps. And when you crash? Oh man, the crashes are spectacular. None of those wimpy fender-benders you see in some racing games. We’re talking full-on, metal-twisting, glass-shattering mayhem. It’s so satisfying to watch your car crumple in slow motion after a particularly epic takedown.
Here’s what makes it so great:
- The open-world design encourages exploration and experimentation.
- The crash physics are incredibly realistic and satisfying.
- The soundtrack is packed with high-energy rock and pop tunes.
- The challenges are varied and keep you coming back for more.
I think what really sets Burnout Paradise apart is its simplicity. It doesn’t try to be anything it’s not. It’s just a fun, fast-paced racing game that’s all about having a good time. If you’re looking for a game to just unwind and blow off some steam, this is it. And if you haven’t played it yet, you’re seriously missing out. You can find Burnout Paradise on many platforms, so there’s no excuse!
8. Project CARS 2
Okay, so maybe Project CARS 2 isn’t the newest kid on the block anymore. It came out in 2017, and yeah, other games might look a bit shinier now. Some even have better handling or a bigger selection of cars. But here’s the thing: none of them quite nail the sandbox feel of PC2.
What makes it special? It’s all about the race creator. Seriously, the level of control you get is wild. Want the day-night cycle to zoom by? Crank it up to x60 speed. Weather? Go from sunny skies to a full-blown blizzard. And that’s just the start. You can tweak tire wear, fuel consumption, damage, mechanical failures, and even mandatory pit stops. It’s insane.
That level of control, along with the solid handling and tons of cars and tracks, keeps people coming back. Even though the developers aren’t supporting it anymore, there’s still a dedicated community. You can’t even buy it on Steam anymore, which is a bummer. But if you can find a way to play it, it’s totally worth it. The weather system is amazing.
9. Dirt Rally 2
Okay, so, Dirt Rally 2.0 isn’t messing around. If you’re the kind of person who thinks rally racing is just driving fast on dirt, this game will quickly disabuse you of that notion. This is a hardcore simulation, plain and simple. Forget about arcade-style fun; this is about precision, skill, and a whole lot of patience.
Your co-driver is your lifeline, barking out instructions at a mile a minute. If you can’t decipher those calls and react accordingly, you’re going to end up wrapped around a tree. Trust me, I’ve been there. Multiple times. The game doesn’t hold your hand, either. There’s no tutorial, so you learn by doing… and by crashing. A lot.
Here’s what makes it so tough:
- Realistic physics: Every bump, every surface change, every tiny adjustment you make affects the car. It’s intense.
- Demanding tracks: These aren’t your average paved circuits. We’re talking about treacherous terrain, hairpin turns, and unpredictable conditions.
- Punishing difficulty: One mistake can cost you the entire race. There’s no rewinding time here; you have to live with your errors.
But, if you’re up for the challenge, Dirt Rally 2.0 offers an incredibly rewarding experience. Mastering a stage, nailing a perfect run, and feeling that sense of accomplishment is something special. It’s a game that demands respect, and if you give it that, it’ll give you back hours of intense, white-knuckle racing. If you are looking for a digital collectible experience, this might not be it, but it’s a great racing game. It’s a tough game, but a good one. It’s also worth checking out the Dirt Rally 2 PC review to get a better idea of what you’re getting into.
10. Le Mans Ultimate
Le Mans Ultimate is the newest kid on the block, still technically in early access as of today, June 19th, 2025. Developed by Studio 397, these guys are really trying to nail that endurance racing feel. You can find it on Steam.
The big selling point? It’s all about the Le Mans 24-hour race. They’ve got the official license, so you’re getting all the LMP and GTE cars from the 2023 season, plus a bunch of other tracks besides just the Circuit de la Sarthe. The day-night transitions look amazing, and the race management aspect really makes it feel like you’re in a proper, grueling endurance event.
One of the coolest things is how much you can tweak the race settings. Want to speed up the day-night cycle? No problem. Want to mess with the weather, tire wear, fuel consumption, or mechanical failures? You can do all of that. It’s this level of control that really lets you create the kind of race experience you’re after. Plus, they’re constantly dropping updates and DLC, so it’s only getting better over time. They’ve even added an asynchronous co-op mode, so you and a buddy can tackle those long races together, even if you can’t always play at the same time.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. We’ve gone over a bunch of great racing games for PC, from super realistic sims to more arcade-style fun. It doesn’t matter if you like detailed car setups or just want to smash into things at high speed, there’s something out there for you. The world of PC racing games is huge, and new stuff comes out all the time. So, grab your gear, pick a game, and get ready to hit the road. Happy racing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best racing game for PC?
The best racing game for you depends on what you like! If you want realistic driving, games like Assetto Corsa Competizione or iRacing are great. If you prefer open-world fun and lots of different cars, Forza Horizon 5 is a top choice. For crazy crashes and destruction, Wreckfest 2 is perfect.
Do I need a special controller to play PC racing games?
You can use a keyboard and mouse, but for a better experience, a controller is highly recommended. For the most realistic feel, a good steering wheel and pedal set will make a huge difference, especially in simulation games.
Can I play these racing games with friends online?
Many racing games on PC offer online multiplayer modes where you can race against other players from all over the world. Some even have competitive leagues and events.
Can I customize my cars in these games?
Yes, many racing games on PC allow you to customize your cars. This can include changing their paint jobs, adding decals, upgrading parts for better performance, and even adjusting how they handle on the track.
What’s the difference between simulation and arcade racing games?
Racing games come in different styles. “Sim” or “simulation” games try to be very realistic, like Assetto Corsa Competizione. “Arcade” games are more about fun and less about strict realism, like Burnout Paradise. “Simcade” games are a mix of both, offering some realism but still being easy to pick up, like Forza Horizon 5.
Are any of these games compatible with VR?
Many racing games on PC are designed to work well with virtual reality (VR) headsets. Playing in VR can make the driving experience much more immersive, making you feel like you’re actually inside the car.