Top 15 best PC racing games

Are you looking for a good PC racing game ? From open-world arcade games to pure simulations, here are the 15 Best Songs sorted by rating Metacritic, with a clear description of each game, so you'll know which one really suits your style.

Some are also among the best car games on PC, if you want to expand your selection.

Please note : This selection was made by our team based on the ratings Metacritic and our gaming experience.

1. Forza Horizon 5

Metacritic score : 91/100
Release date November 5, 2021
Kind : arcade, open world
Platforms : PC (Steam and Microsoft Store), Xbox Series X, and Xbox One

Forza Horizon 5 takes you to a huge open world inspired by Mexico, featuring a wide variety of environments: desert, jungle, and coastal city. Whether you prefer fast-paced races, free exploration, or collecting cars, there’s always something to do.

It's probably the best arcade racing game to get started on PC. The driving remains very accessible with a controller, but you can adjust the settings to make it feel more like a real car simulation. There is no PS5 version; it is available only on PC via Steam and the Microsoft Store, and Xbox.

2. GTR 2

Metacritic score : 90/100
Release date September 29, 2006

GTR 2 is a classic of the car simulation which made its mark on the history of PC racing games. Despite its almost 20 years, it remains a benchmark thanks to its realistic physics, its official race tracks, and its many race cars.

The game is all about the demanding driving. You control your speed, braking, and lines down to the millimeter. With a steering wheel, the driving experience is amazing, even today.

One thing to keep in mind before you get started: on Windows 10 and Windows 11, it may require a few community patches to run smoothly. It's the perfect game if you're looking for a authentic experience, a far cry from overly arcade-style games, and that the best PC simulation games that interest you.

3. Burnout Paradise

Metacritic score : 87/100
Release date January 22, 2008

Burnout Paradise is betting everything on the speed, spectacular crashes, and the freedom to move around. You explore Paradise City, an open world where you race from one event to the next at your own pace, with no loading screens between races. The goal is simple: race, destroy, win.

the arcade gameplay is incredibly fast-paced and encourages constant risk-taking. The multiplayer mode remains one of the game's highlights—perfect for having a great time with friends.

On PC, it's the version Burnout Paradise Remastered (2018) that we should aim for, available at Steam. The original 2008 version is no longer available for purchase in the official store.

This game is for players who love the’adrenaline, free-roaming exploration, and arcade-style thrills without any restrictions. If you prefer to play quietly on your own, check out our selection of best single-player games on PC.

4. Grand Prix 3

Metacritic score : 87/100
Release date August 24, 2000

Grand Prix 3 remains a cult classic in the world of simulation Formula 1 on PC. It faithfully recreates the tracks and racing conditions, with weather simulation that was far ahead of its time.

Sa driving dynamics Its high difficulty level makes it a true game for purists. It's better to play steering wheel to fully enjoy the realism.

Please note: The title dates from 2000, and on Windows 10/11, it runs mainly thanks to community patches that fix compatibility issues. That’s the only real hurdle right now. This game is aimed at Formula 1 enthusiasts and players who enjoy taking on demanding challenges, far from the arcade.

5. Project CARS 2

Metacritic score : 84/100
Release date September 21, 2017

Project CARS 2 stands out for its highly nuanced handling of the dynamic weather, the day-night cycle, and the variety of its routes. There you'll find hundreds of cars and a wide variety of disciplines: Formula racing, GT, and endurance racing. The physics and the changing track conditions make every session different.

This game is designed for players who love realistic simulations, whether playing solo or in multiplayer mode behind the wheel.

Important information to know before buying: Project CARS 2 was taken off the market on September 21, 2022 by the studio Slightly Mad Studios, following the expiration of car and track licenses. It is therefore no longer officially available on Steam. You can still find it through third-party resellers using product keys, but it is no longer available for purchase through official channels.

6. DiRT Rally 2.0

Metacritic score : 84/100
Release date February 26, 2019

Developed by Codemasters, DiRT Rally 2.0 is a leading name among the Best Rally Games for PC. The game pits you against natural trails, narrow roads, and ever-changing weather. The slightest mistake can cost you the race, and that's exactly what makes each special stage so intense.

Sa advanced physics is the real highlight. The cars' handling varies depending on the terrain (dirt, gravel, snow), and a steering wheel with pedals It showcases the game's full potential. When playing with a controller, the experience is still very good.

Please note: This is not an arcade game. Driving requires patience and a real learning curve. It is intended for players who are looking for the realism and, above all, the technical challenges.

7. Forza Motorsport 7

Metacritic score : 82/100
Release date September 29, 2017

Forza Motorsport 7 focuses on the official circuits and pure performance. You get to enjoy a massive selection of more than 700 vehicles collectible. The gameplay strikes the right balance between accessibility and realism, whether you play with a controller or a steering wheel. This game is for players who enjoy serious car simulation and online competitions.

To note : Forza Motorsport 7 was taken off the market on September 15, 2021, due to expired licenses. Its official successor is Forza Motorsport (2023), the eighth installment in the series, available on PC and Xbox Series X. If you're new to the simulation, you should go with this version—it's newer and is constantly being updated.

8. Wreckfest 2

Metacritic score : 81/100
Release date : March 20, 2025 (early access)

Wreckfest 2 turns the race into a real show of destruction. The cars actually get damaged, and every collision changes the course of the game.

Mixed gameplay arcade, fun, and a little strategy. You choose your rides from a wide variety of vehicles, ranging from old clunkers to buggies built to take a beating. You have access to classic races, demolition arenas, and a solid multiplayer so you can party with your friends.

The game plays very well on the joystick. It is available on PC via Steam, with versions PS5 and Xbox Series X planned. Note: Since it is still in early access, there's still more content to come, and a few bugs remain. It's the perfect game if you like crazy races and deliberate chaos rather than mere simulation.

9. F1 25

Metacritic score : 81/100
Release date May 30, 2025

F1 25 is the official game of the Formula 1. You'll find all the teams, drivers, and tracks from the season, faithfully recreated. The physics of the cars remain challenging but accessible whether you're using a controller or a steering wheel.

The mode Career lets you experience a full season just like a real professional driver. The narrative content Braking Point returns to add a story mode between races. Online multiplayer provides the competitive aspect. The game is available on computer, PS5 and Xbox Series X.

This title is primarily aimed at fans of F1 and players looking for a a realistic and structured experience. If you don't get into the game, it's less engaging than an open-world title.

You can also compare them with the best racing games on PS5 to see the console options.

10. EA Sports WRC

Metacritic score : 80/100
Release date : November 2, 2023

EA Sports WRC immerses you in the official world of the FIA World Rally Championship. The special stages, the changing weather conditions, and the vehicles are faithfully reproduced, providing a realistic simulation on dirt, gravel, or snow.

Physics is a challenging subject to master, both in steering wheel ...only on the controller. The game is available on computer, PS5 and Xbox Series X.

It's designed for players who enjoy challenges based on precision rather than on pure speed. If you're just starting out, it might seem a little challenging at first.

11. MotoGP 24

Metacritic score : 79/100
Release date : May 2, 2024

MotoGP 24 focuses on the motorcycle racing, but it definitely belongs on this list. You'll find all the official drivers, the season's tracks, and a faithful reproduction of the race conditions in real time.

You can play solo in a complete career mode or compete against other players online in fast-paced races. The driving physics remain challenging without being discouraging.

Available on computer, PS5, PS4 and Xbox Series X, this title is primarily aimed at fans of two-wheeled motorsports. Please note: The series releases a new installment every year, so a more recent version may soon take its place.

12. iRacing

Metacritic score : 79/100
Release date August 26, 2008

iRacing is here The Gold Standard in Online Racing Simulations. Each race takes place within a highly structured framework, with official championships, leaderboards, and fixed schedules. You never race alone: everything happens in real time against real drivers.

What makes it so strong is the ultra-realistic physics and a licensing system that rewards consistency. The better you drive, the more series and cars you unlock. It's one of the best racing games for experiencing the real competitive pressure.

As for the budget, iRacing works by subscription (approximately 13 $/month), not as a one-time purchase. Additional tracks and cars must then be purchased individually. This is an investment designed for truly serious players, ideally those who steering wheel. If you just want to cruise along on your own, move on.

13. Assetto Corsa Competizione

Metacritic score : 77/100
Release date May 29, 2019

Assetto Corsa Competizione, also known as ACC, is the official simulation of the GT World Challenge Championship. The game focuses entirely on physics and precise handling: you really feel how GT cars behave when braking, cornering, and as their tires wear down. The dynamic weather also changes the game every turn.

ACC takes on its full meaning in the steering wheel. The management of relays and endurance races makes this a demanding competitive game, designed for drivers looking for a extensive experience. It is available on PC, as well as on PS5 and Xbox Series X. It's better suited for fans of pure simulation than for players who are new to the controller.

14. Le Mans Ultimate

Metacritic score : 76/100
Release date : February 20, 2024 (early access), version 1.0 on July 22, 2025

Le Mans Ultimate is here Official simulation of the World Endurance Championship. Here are the official vehicles on set, the legendary circuits of which the Sarthe Circuit, and very sophisticated management of race strategy.

Here, it's all about endurance. You have to optimize your relays and manage the’tire wear and adapt to track conditions hour by hour. The physics and handling of the race cars are designed to very realistic, in the tradition of pure simulation. The game really shines in multiplayer, where team endurance races really come into their own.

The key point to keep in mind: the content is still lighter than a iRacing or one Assetto Corsa, and early access had long been plagued by bugs before the version 1.0. Best suited for players who enjoy games where strategy matters just as much as speed.

15. The Crew Motorfest

Metacritic score : 76/100
Release date April 18, 2024
Kind : open-world arcade game

The Crew Motorfest immerses you in a open world with a variety of races, solo challenges, and an extensive multiplayer mode. The focus is on driving fun and exploration, rather than pure simulation.

Its biggest strength: the thematic exams, each built around a specific automotive theme (Japanese cars, hypercars, off-road vehicles, etc.). You can switch from one racing style to another without ever leaving the map.

Note: The single-player content wraps up fairly quickly, and the game really comes into its own when played online with other players. It’s one of the best titles for stringing together long hours of driving without pressure among friends. It is available on computer, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X and Xbox One.

You now have everything you need to choose the racing game that suits your style, from fast-paced arcade games to the most demanding simulations. And to keep the adventure going on your console, be sure to check out:

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