A Brief History of Racing Games
Racing games have captivated players since the early days of arcades and home consoles. From simple black and white graphics to today‘s photorealistic visuals, racing titles have always showcased the latest advancements in technology.
The first racing video game is considered to be Taito‘s Speed Race, released in arcades in 1974. It featured basic top-down 2D graphics but the core elements – racing cars around a track – were there. Atari built on this foundation with classic arcade titles like Night Driver in 1976, which used primitive vector graphics to convey a first-person view behind the wheel.
Over the years, categories like kart racers and street racing games joined proper racing simulators. Customization also grew from merely choosing color schemes to fine-tuning gear ratios, tire pressure and suspension set-ups. Open world environments became the norm for street racing titles, giving players control over where and when to race.
Titles like Gran Turismo for the original PlayStation ushered in new standards of realism in modeling car physics and performance. Microsoft‘s Forza Motorsport matched this on Xbox platforms as the two iconic series have continued raising the simulation racing bar.
Now in the PlayStation 4 era, racing fans are truly spoiled for choice with the hottest superbikes, vintage classics, rally cars and more at their virtual fingertips. Let‘s take a look at the absolute best titles available.
7. WRC 8 FIA World Rally Championship
The officially licensed FIA World Rally Championship game gives players authentic implementations of locations, teams, drivers and vehicles from the WRC. Handling varies across snow, mud, tarmac and other surfaces while realistic damage impacts car performance.
With over 100 special stages across 14 countries, WRC 8 captures the globe-trotting spirit and challenge of real rally racing. Solo and online modes plus livery editor and weekly challenges based on real 2019 events give it strong replay value.
Visually it lags behind some PS4 racing counterparts and only offers limited vehicle customization. But with WRC 9 now available, WRC 8 can be picked up at a budget price for some fast, bumpy rally action.
Publisher: Bigben Interactive / Nacon
Developer: Kylotonn
Release Date: September 5, 2019
6. Ride 3
The Ride series focuses exclusively on faithfully recreating two-wheeled racing action. Ride 3 includes 237 bikes from 33 manufacturers plus 33 tracks, offering extensive options to live out superbike dreams.
Ultra-realistic physics and handling make precise control critical at high speeds. Visually bikes and riders feature remarkable detail with customization extending from aesthetics to gear ratios and tire compounds.
Single and multiplayer modes range from quick races to endurance events. Ride 3 ups the realism ante with simulation features covering fuel usage, tire wear and technical failures. Minor bugs have been patched but gameplay leans towards unforgiving simulation over arcade-style accessibility.
If superbikes tickle your need for speed, Ride 3 undoubtedly delivers the most comprehensive modern console motorcycling experience.
Publisher: Milestone s.r.l
Developer: Milestone s.r.l
Release Date: November 7, 2018
5. Project CARS 2
Project CARS 2 lives up to its subtitle as the "ultimate driver journey" with 140 tracks and 189 elite cars from 38 manufacturers. Beautiful dynamic weather and lighting effects make already gorgeous locales even more striking.
Extensive tuning options allow players to adjust set-ups to perfectly suit personal driving styles. But new assist modes help novices enjoy the simulation without excessive complexity.
Even with assist modes enabled, Project CARS 2 demands concentration and skill to master. AI drivers offer competitive challenges without resorting to blatant rubber-banding or cheating. Multiplayer allows up to 40 cars online but small grid sizes maintain smooth performance.
Project CARS 2 doesn‘t have quite the polish or car count of genre leaders. But superb visuals and handling make simply cruising around the impeccably detailed environments compelling. With support for 12K graphics and VR also included, it easily claims a podium spot.
Publisher: Bandai Namco
Developer: Slightly Mad Studios
Release Date: September 22, 2017
4. Need for Speed: Heat
This street racer splits the difference between simulation cred and popcorn arcade thrills. By day, legal Showdown races earn you cash to customize rides ranging from vintage classics to the hottest exotics. By night, illicit meets put new parts to the test while avoiding roaming police patrols.
The urban setting of Palm City looks stunning, especially when the vibrant neon glow of night races reflects off wet roads. Body kits, decals and other modifications let you personalize cars to match driving styles. Improved collision damage also forces more careful driving to avoid massive repair bills.
Characters and narrative in the solo campaign feel generic but driving action delivers. Approachable handling plus strategic day/night progression makes Heat engaging for veterans and newcomers alike. If the open world “[craving character limit exceeded…]
