We already published the list of best PC games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best PC arcade racing games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the PC gaming community will surely enjoy a great library of arcade racing games.
So, if you’re a PC gamer and love arcade 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.
#25. LEGO Racers
- Release Data: High Voltage Software/Lego Media, 1999
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Other
Lego Racers may not offer online multiplayer, but it does feature a thrilling split-screen versus mode for two players.
With this mode, players can create and customize their own characters and vehicles before racing against each other.
And unlike other games with split-screen mode, Lego Racers maintains a smooth 60 fps frame rate, delivering a seamless and exciting experience.
#24. Powerslide
- Release Data: Ratbag/GT Interactive, 1998
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Powerslide is a standout PC racer with impressive graphics, precise control system, and flexible AI that sets it apart from the crowded racing game market.
Overall, Powerslide caters to fans of arcade-style racing games, and the physics models are so well-executed that even simulation fans will find something to love.
#23. BreakNeck (2000)
- Release Data: Synetic/SouthPeak Games, 2000
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
BreakNeck offers a thrilling driving experience with fast cars and challenging tracks, without aiming for ultra-realism.
And although its menu system can be a bit complicated, the game offers plenty of customizable options, allowing you to adjust many things.
So, if you’re looking for a game that lets you race at high speeds, BreakNeck is definitely worth checking out.
#22. Re-Volt
- Release Data: Acclaim Studios London/Acclaim, 1999
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
While Re-Volt is a fun game, it falls short of its full potential due to scattered flaws.
The soundtrack is excellent, featuring techno-dance music that fits the gameplay perfectly. However, the game’s overall package is weaker than it could be.
But despite these flaws, Re-Volt still manages to provide an entertaining arcade racing experience.
#21. FlatOut 2
- Release Data: Bugbear/Vivendi Games, 2006
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
FlatOut 2 surpasses its predecessor, offering a richer gameplay experience with more content and improved depth.
With additional multiplayer, stunt events, and hilarious ragdoll physics, FlatOut 2 is a worthwhile investment.
It may not cater to hardcore simulation fans, but those looking for a unique racing game with wild stunts, intense competition, and destructive chaos will definitely enjoy it.
#20. FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage
- Release Data: Bugbear/Empire Interactive, 2008
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
For those seeking a realistic racing game, Grid may be a better option, while Burnout Paradise is a promising choice for those who enjoy outrageous stunts and high-speed racing.
However, the scarcity of hybrid racers of this type on PC makes this game worth considering.
#19. Speed Busters: American Highways
- Release Data: Ubisoft, 1998
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Speed Busters delivers an exciting racing experience that is all about fun and thrills rather than realism.
If you’re a fan of old-school racing games and crave a quick and dirty racing experience that’s packed with entertainment, this could be just the game you’ve been searching for.
#18. Midtown Madness 2
- Release Data: Angel Studios/Microsoft Game Studios, 2000
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
While it may not be the most polished game out there, Midtown Madness 2 makes up for it with a heartwarming sense of humor and an endless array of fun scenarios.
Whether you’re speeding through the streets in a high-end sports car or crashing through traffic in a fire truck, this game offers a unique and entertaining experience.
#17. Driver
- Release Data: Reflections Interactive/Infogrames, 2000
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Despite its drawbacks, Driver is a game worth picking up.
It’s addictive, intuitive, and fun, qualities that are sometimes neglected in the industry’s obsession with technical innovation.
Simply put, don’t let the flaws hold you back from experiencing the excitement and thrills that Driver has to offer.
#16. Split/Second
- Release Data: Black Rock Studio/Disney Interactive Studios, 2010
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Split/Second is a fantastic racing game that’s hard to fault.
While it may start off easy and take some time to figure out the best power-plays for each situation, the game quickly ramps up the intensity and becomes a thrilling experience.
In an industry obsessed with realism, Split/Second is a refreshing break from reality that delivers a lot of fun.
#15. TrackMania United
- Release Data: Nadeo/93 Games Studio, 2006
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
TrackMania United may not fit the mold of a traditional racing game, but that’s precisely what makes it so unique and engaging.
While it may not have the flashy effects and explosions of other racing games, it makes up for it with precise controls, a clear quantification of skill, and a focus on pure fun.
#14. TrackMania 2 Canyon
- Release Data: Nadeo/Ubisoft, 2011
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
TrackMania 2: Canyon may not be ideal for players who prefer more traditional racers with a stronger emphasis on progression, but it’s still very rewarding to replay the same track over and over again to shave off just a fraction of a second and beat your own record.
#13. TrackMania Sunrise
- Release Data: Nadeo/Digital Jesters, 2005
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
TrackMania Sunrise is an excellent sequel to the original TrackMania that offers a great deal more content while also addressing some of the previous game’s flaws.
Although it may not appeal to hardcore racing fans due to its focus on stunt driving and track building, this is precisely what makes it such an enjoyable and unique experience.
#12. Pure
- Release Data: Black Rock Studio/Disney Interactive Studios, 2008
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Pure lives up to its name by offering pure, unadulterated fun without any unnecessary frills or distractions.
The game has no story and no complicated modding, allowing players to focus solely on the joy of racing and performing stunts.
Whether you prefer racing or tricking, Pure has something to offer with endless ATV customization options and fierce competition.
#11. Midtown Madness
- Release Data: Angel Studios/Microsoft Game Studios, 1999
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Midtown Madness offers a lot of opportunities for you to let loose and have fun.
And with cruise mode, you can drive wherever you want without any restrictions.
Though you may find yourself wishing for more depth, overall Midtown Madness is a fun and engaging driving game that is sure to keep you entertained.
#10. Blur
- Release Data: Bizarre Creations/Activision, 2010
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Blur may have its flaws, but it still manages to be an excellent racing game.
If you’re a fan of classic kart racers like Super Mario Kart and want to experience a more complex version of that genre, then Blur is a must-play.
#9. Ultim@te Race Pro
- Release Data: Kalisto/MicroProse, 1998
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Ultimate Race Pro is a top-notch arcade-style racing game that delivers an incredibly fun multiplayer experience.
The only downside is that the single player modes feel a bit lacking in comparison.
However, if you’re looking for an exciting racing game to play with friends, Ultimate Race Pro is definitely worth checking out.
#8. Need for Speed: High Stakes
- Release Data: EA Seattle/Electronic Arts, 1999
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Need for Speed: High Stakes is an exciting addition to the Need for Speed franchise, offering new features such as car damage, a career mode, and more cars and tracks than its predecessor.
With fast gameplay, impressive graphics, and a wide variety of cars and tracks, this game is a rare treat that is sure to provide hours of entertainment.
#7. OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast
- Release Data: Sumo Digital/Sega, 2006
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast is a thrilling arcade racer that will have you speeding around in Ferraris and executing hair-raising drifts.
It’s a great choice for anyone looking for an exciting racing game.
If you’ve played OutRun2 before, you may find Coast 2 Coast to be similar, but it’s still an enjoyable experience.
#6. Need for Speed: Porsche Unleashed
- Release Data: EA Canada/Electronic Arts, 2000
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
While this game focuses solely on Porsche cars, it doesn’t overpromise and instead offers a comprehensive and beautiful driving experience.
It may not have the ability to race against other exotic cars, but the variety of Porsche models and high-performance machines make it a worthwhile investment for driving enthusiasts.
#5. Need for Speed III: Hot Pursuit
- Release Data: EA Seattle/Electronic Arts, 1998
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
While Need for Speed III offers plenty of addictive fun, it does have a few drawbacks.
Nevertheless, the game’s entertaining and exciting gameplay overshadows these shortcomings.
And while it doesn’t quite measure up to pure arcade racers, Need for Speed III is a worthwhile choice for those seeking a taste of arcade-style speed and action on their PCs.
#4. Wreckfest
- Release Data: Bugbear/THQ Nordic, 2018
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Wreckfest is a game that encourages players to create their own fun.
While the career mode is repetitive, the multiplayer component adds an extra layer of enjoyment by introducing other players to the gameplay.
It’s clear that developer understands what their audience wants, and they deliver it in a chaotic package that any fan of arcade racing can appreciate.
#3. Motocross Madness 2
- Release Data: Rainbow Studios/Microsoft Game Studios, 2000
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Other
Motocross Madness 2 may not be the most realistic motorcycle simulation available, but it’s definitely one of the most fun to play.
With a variety of features, it’s sure to appeal to a wide range of players, and at a relatively cheap price, it’s an affordable option for most.
If your system can handle it, it’s definitely worth getting.
#2. Motocross Madness
- Release Data: Rainbow Studios/Microsoft Game Studios, 1998
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Other
There are multiple ways to enjoy this game.
One option is to test your limits and push the boundaries of how recklessly you can drive the motorcycles, as all thirty tracks can be practiced without any interference from opponents.
For those feeling more confident, there’s a library of sixteen midair stunts that can be performed using specific controller combinations.
#1. Burnout Paradise: The Ultimate Box
- Release Data: Criterion Games/Electronic Arts, 2009
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
While the open world design of Burnout Paradise offers players more freedom and exploration than previous entries in the series, it can also lead to repetition and a steep learning curve.
However, the graphics are impressive and the driving action is addictive, making it a solid choice for fans of high-speed racing games or newcomers to the Burnout series.
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Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which PC arcade racing game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!