We already published the list of best PC games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best PC racing games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the PC gaming community will surely enjoy a great library of racing games.
So, if you’re a PC gamer and love 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. 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.
#24. GTR Evolution
- Release Data: SimBin/Atari SA, 2008
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
GTR Evolution is a fantastic racing simulator that offers unparalleled realism for dedicated racing fans.
The game’s attention to detail is truly impressive, and it’s clear that a lot of care went into creating a realistic driving experience.
That being said, the steep learning curve and lack of accessibility might turn off more casual gamers.
#23. 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.
#22. Midnight Club II
- Release Data: Rockstar San Diego/Rockstar Games, 2003
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
Rockstar has a strong reputation for their expertise in the racing genre, and this is evident in Midnight Club II.
And despite a few minor flaws, Midnight Club II is a great option for those looking for an exciting and challenging racing experience on their computer.
#21. 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.
#20. GT Legends
- Release Data: SimBin/Atari SA, 2006
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
Its impressive list of features, outstanding physics, stunning graphics, ease of learning and playing, and exceptional sound all contribute to its superiority.
Additionally, its ultra-cool nostalgia factor works in its favor.
If you’re a fan of racing simulations, this title is a must-have, and for those interested in exploring the genre, this is a great starting point.
#19. TOCA Race Driver 2: The Ultimate Racing Simulator
- Release Data: Codemasters, 2004
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
TOCA 2 is a game that could have been a top choice for PC racing fans if not for its minor graphical issues and sound bugs that can be quite irritating.
While it may not match the Xbox version in terms of quality, TOCA 2 remains an excellent choice for PC gamers looking for a fresh racing experience.
#18. TOCA Race Driver 3
- Release Data: Codemasters, 2006
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
TOCA 3 is a racing game that can appeal to all kinds of driving game fans, thanks to its variety and accessibility.
Simulation enthusiasts will appreciate the challenging difficulty level and the ability to tweak tuning options before races, while those who just want to jump in and race can do so without worrying about detailed setup requirements.
#17. Mobil 1 Rally Championship
- Release Data: Magnetic Fields/Actualize, 2000
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
For those who consider themselves serious rally fans, Mobil 1 Rally Championship is a must-have.
And for those who enjoy driving simulators, this game is definitely worth checking out, and those who prefer quick action may find themselves becoming rally enthusiasts after playing it.
#16. F1 Challenge ’99-’02
- Release Data: Electronic Arts, 2003
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
To get the most out of the game, you’ll need to practice, adjust your opponents, tweak your car handling, and customize the realism settings to suit your preferences.
If you’re willing to invest time and effort into doing this, then this is an excellent F1 simulation game that will ultimately be rewarding.
#15. DiRT 3
- Release Data: Codemasters, 2011
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
Dirt 3 is a fantastic follow-up to an already great game, improving upon its predecessor in almost every way.
If you enjoy traditional racing, you’ll be pleased to know that the game offers over twice as many routes to race on, with a wider variety of weather conditions and vehicles to choose from.
#14. GTR: FIA GT Racing Game
- Release Data: SimBin/10tacle Studios, 2005
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
If you’re seeking a game that doesn’t require much thought about car mechanics and handling, there are many other games that may suit you better.
However, if you’re a dedicated gearhead and are interested in reliving the experience of racing on FIA circuits in Europe, GTR: FIA GT Racing offers an enjoyable experience, despite a few flaws.
#13. 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.
#12. Superbike 2000
- Release Data: Milestone S.r.l/EA Sports, 2000
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
Superbike 2000 is an impressive representation of SBK racing, both visually and technically, and is sure to captivate players of all skill levels.
While there may be a learning curve, once you get past it, you’ll discover that Superbike 2000 is one of the most realistic racing games available for the PC.
#11. Colin McRae Rally 2.0
- Release Data: Codemasters, 2001
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
While not wholly original, Codemasters has taken the time to polish the rough edges of this release, resulting in a more refined and enjoyable experience than its predecessor.
Though die-hard fans of the original may feel a sense of familiarity, for everyone else, Colin McRae Rally 2.0 is a highly addictive and satisfying racing game.
#10. 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.
#9. NASCAR Racing 2002 Season
- Release Data: Papyrus/Sierra Entertainment, 2002
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
To fully appreciate this game, a player should have a genuine interest in the technical aspects of racing.
Simply put, this game is perfect for avid racing fans who want to experience the action in a realistic way rather than those who are looking for a quick way to cause destruction or perform stunts.
#8. F1 2002
- Release Data: EA Sports/Electronic Arts, 2002
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
For hardcore sim fans, F1 2002 is a dream come true.
With customizable options and the ability to endlessly tweak setups, this game never gets old. The racing is fascinating and keeps you coming back for more.
Some may find the game frustrating, but for those who can master it, the payoff is worth it.
#7. Grand Prix 3
- Release Data: Hasbro Interactive, 2000
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
Despite its flaws in menus, graphics, and sound, Grand Prix 3 is a game created with a lot of attention to detail by passionate F1 fans.
The game’s complexity and realism add to the enjoyment, rather than detracting from it.
This game may not be a masterpiece, but it offers a challenging experience that will keep players coming back.
#6. Superbike 2001
- Release Data: Milestone S.r.l/Electronic Arts, 2000
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
The game is accessible to casual players on easy difficulty settings, but it also offers a deep simulation experience for hardcore fans of superbike racing with all the realistic settings in effect.
However, the game can be quite challenging on harder difficulty settings, which may frustrate some players who lack patience or are more accustomed to auto racing games.
#5. GRID (2008)
- Release Data: Codemasters, 2008
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
The presentation of the game strikes the perfect balance between realism and entertainment, and combined with Codemasters’s renowned damage modelling, this game is a must-have for any racing enthusiast.
The game also doesn’t overwhelm players with too many options, unlike previous titles, making it accessible and enjoyable for both novice and seasoned players alike.
#4. 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.
#3. NASCAR Racing 4
- Release Data: Papyrus/Sierra Entertainment, 2001
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
This title offers a range of modes that provide plenty of replay value.
The single race, testing sessions, championship, and custom season options are all present and accounted for, and the garage and paint shop utilities have been refined and expanded upon.
Overall, it is a highly ambitious and impressive game that any oval racing enthusiast should check out.
#2. NASCAR Racing 2003 Season
- Release Data: Papyrus/Sierra Entertainment, 2003
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
NASCAR Racing 2003 Season is a game that truly captures the essence of NASCAR racing, with its focus on car customization and fine-tuning.
And while the game may not have the flash and spectacle of other racing games, its attention to detail and focus on strategy make it a must-play for fans of the NASCAR racing series.
#1. GTR 2
- Release Data: SimBin/10tacle Studios, 2006
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
GTR 2 is a comprehensive racing simulator that offers a variety of game modes to test your skills.
The single exhibition races, time trials, and driving school modes are all designed to help players improve their racing techniques.
Moreover, the 24 hour mode is also particularly impressive, showcasing the game’s dynamic day and night cycles.
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Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which PC racing game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!
