We already published the list of best DS games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best DS sim racing games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the DS definitely has a great library of sim racing games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the DS and sim racing games, there’s a chance you’ll like this list.
And some of you may already know some of the games mentioned in this list.
#10. Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli
- Release Data: Firebrand Games/System 3, 2008
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
In a world where Nintendo’s handheld is bombarded with ‘casual’ games that revolve around mundane tasks like cooking rather than racing shiny and ridiculously expensive cars at dangerous speeds, it’s good to see a title that positively delights in taxing the player and forcing them to commit hours of their time to raise the level of their skill.
#9. Need for Speed Carbon: Own the City
- Release Data: Exient Entertainment/EA Games, 2006
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
All in all, Need for Speed Carbon: Own the City for the Nintendo DS is a solid street racing game that should provide you with many hours of enjoyment.
It isn’t a feature-for-feature replica of the console versions, but it’s close enough.
#8. DiRT 2
- Release Data: Firebrand Games/Codemasters, 2009
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
For those looking for a simple, off-road DS racer for on-the-go gaming, Dirt 2 is a fine option.
You’ve got some great licensed cars, a strong driving engine, some decent visuals, great music tracks, and a pretty consistent framerate.
Overall, Dirt 2 is a great addition to the Nintendo DS library.
#7. Need for Speed: Nitro
- Release Data: Firebrand Games/EA Games, 2009
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
Fortunately, there’s enough good action in Need for Speed: Nitro that you can overlook the game’s shortcomings.
Sure, there’s not much variety, the music leaves something to be desired and the graphics can get a bit rough, but the gameplay itself offers a good sense of speed, plenty of character, and, more importantly, it’s fun.
#6. Drift Street International
- Release Data: Tantalus, 2010
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
Drift Street International is a solid little racer that petrolheads and speed demons may get a kick out of, but it’s tough to recommend over the more robust competition.
It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel but aims to deliver a pretty round one that’s worth a spin if you don’t mind a little simplicity.
#5. Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights
- Release Data: Juice Games/THQ, 2007
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
Juiced 2 for the Nintendo DS is one of those rare cases where sweet graphics actually elevate an otherwise unremarkable game into a worthwhile purchase.
Racing around courses that look this good, in cars you can actually admire is very, very nice, even if the AI and multiplayer options aren’t quite up to the expectation.
#4. Need for Speed ProStreet
- Release Data: Exient Entertainment/EA Games, 2007
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
The core gameplay is well crafted and the different kinds of challenges and customization can be thoroughly explored alone, offering a sophisticated complement to the instant fun of racers such as Mario Kart DS.
So, for those in search of a solid, customizable driving experience on the go, ProStreet is a recommended title.
#3. Asphalt 4: Elite Racing
- Release Data: Gameloft, 2009
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
The lack of online multiplayer and dodgy touch screen controls are the only significant problems but they don’t stop this title being a must-have for anyone who’s keen to experience a top quality handheld racing game and doesn’t mind using the D-pad to do it.
#2. Race Driver: Create & Race
- Release Data: Firebrand Games/Codemasters, 2007
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
As long as you don’t expect a shrunken-down console-racing simulation, you’ll find a lot to like in Race Driver: Create & Race.
It’s obvious that a lot of care went into the game; it’s not some quick way to cash in on an established franchise.
There’s no shortage of ways to stay occupied and, most importantly, the racing is exciting and fun.
#1. GRID
- Release Data: Firebrand Games/Codemasters, 2008
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
The single-player game takes six to eight hours to complete, depending on how hard you chase after the medals.
Not only that, the track creator also extends the replay value exponentially.
Overall, with tons of variety, great multiplayer, and hours of replay value, Grid is a handheld port worthy of any racing fan’s time.
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See also: Best GameCube Games & Best Wii Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which DS sim racing game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!
