Welcome! Today we’re counting down our picks for the best trials games that you should check out.
And without further ado, let’s dive right in.
#25. Trials Legends
- Release Date: 2010
- Platform: PC
Before I continue, I must tell you that not every game on this list is exactly like the Trials series. Some are very similar, while others aren’t even motorcycle trial games. However, many of these games share elements of the Trials series that made it popular, so it’s worth trying a different approach.
Anyway, this one is a remake or compilation of the earlier versions of the Trials games by RedLynx. So, if you’re a hardcore fan of the series, it’s definitely worth checking out. And luckily, you can download it on the Internet Archive website.
#24. Motorbike
- Release Date: 2011
- Platform: PC
Now, this game is rated very low on Steam, but if you approach it for what it is—which is a simple 2.5D motorcycle trials game—you might actually enjoy it.
And despite the outdated visuals, it’s still playable, I guess. That said, I must warn you: this game is really hard, so it’s probably not for casual players.
So, yeah, if you’re a hardcore fan of motorcycle trials games and want to try something different, this could be worth a shot. However, I’d recommend only picking it up if you can get it at a discount.
#23. Draw Rider Remake
- Release Date: 2023
- Platform: PC, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Okay, this game might look very simple, and honestly, it is. However, if you don’t care much about visuals and focus only on gameplay, this one might be worth trying—especially since this remake was built from the ground up to be bigger, better, and prettier in every way.
And if you’re starting to lose hair, maybe you’ll remember those flash games we had back in the day. This one will take you back to that time when life wasn’t so stressful. So, yeah, I think only veteran gamers will truly appreciate the simplicity of this game.
#22. Monster Trucks Nitro
- Release Date: 2008
- Platform: PC
Now, this one is obviously not a motorcycle trials game, but you know what? It was made by RedLynx, and that shows in the gameplay. Instead of using trial bikes to race through courses and jump over obstacles, this one lets you do it all with monster trucks.
And yeah, the feel of the gameplay is definitely different since you’re using a 4-wheeled vehicle, but if you’re into that addictive, perfection-chasing experience where you’ll retry over and over, this old title might be a good fit for you—especially if you’re open to trying something new.
#21. Trials of the Blood Dragon
- Release Date: 2016
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
This one is basically a crossover between Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon and the Trials series.
However, not many people even know this game exists—not even most Trials fans. I mean, since it’s neither a full-blown Trials title nor a full-blown Far Cry title, it’s kinda confusing who this game is meant for.
That said, if you’re expecting a proper Trials game, you’ll be disappointed, and if you’re expecting a proper Far Cry game, you’ll also be disappointed. But now, think of it as a weird platforming game with a bit of Trials DNA, and you’ll have a better time.
#20. Urban Trial Freestyle
- Release Date: 2013
- Platform: PC
Okay, for those of you who are hardcore Trials fans, I have to say—don’t expect this game to have the same level of addictiveness as the Trials series. Let’s just say they’re on a completely different level, alright?
Anyway, in this game, you’ll ride your bike through obstacles while trying to get the highest score possible, but it’s presented with a funnier and more absurd style. Honestly, it’s fun as long as you don’t take it too seriously.
So, if you set your expectations right, you’ll probably enjoy this one—especially considering its cheap price.
#19. MX Nitro: Unleashed
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Now, although this one might look like a motocross version of the Trials games, if you look closely, it actually resembles Excitebike from the old days. Yeah, some of you are probably having flashbacks to one of the greatest racing games of the retro era.
Anyway, there are a few key differences compared to the Trials series. First, this game focuses more on performing tricks while racing against other competitors. Secondly, it even includes boss battles, which sets it apart. So yeah, it’s quite different—and you might want to give it a try.
#18. Urban Trial Tricky
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Okay, this one is the latest entry in the Urban Trial series, which is essentially a light-hearted and more casual take on the Trials games. So, if you enjoy Trials-style gameplay but are looking for a more relaxing and laid-back experience, I’d recommend choosing this series over the Trials one.
But unlike its previous installments, this game features more cartoony and colorful visuals—which, honestly, I kinda like! And as usual, if you’re fine with playing something less hardcore and more casual, give this one a try. It’s actually quite enjoyable, especially when playing on Switch.
#17. Urban Trial Playground
- Release Date: 2018
- Platform: PC, SWITCH
Alright, with this game, it feels like they took a step back from the core gameplay of the first one but tried to win us over with shiny new score and challenge systems.
And while the first game felt like a Trials knockoff with a half-baked scoring mechanic, this one leans more into an OlliOlli vibe, with elaborate combos and challenges that are genuinely fun to pull off.
That said, the physics in this game have been downgraded a bit, making it more accessible. So, if you’re here for hardcore technical gameplay, this one might not be for you.
#16. Trials 2: Second Edition
- Release Date: 2008
- Platform: PC
Now, some of you Trials fans might not even know that this game exists. Most of you are probably only familiar with the big four games—starting from Trials HD up to Trials Rising—which is understandable since those are the titles that made the genre popular.
Anyway, this is actually a remake of Trials 2, originally released in 2007 as a flash game. As you can see, it’s a bit different from the mainstream Trials games, especially since it was developed during the golden era of flash games.
So, if you’re an old-school fan, this one is definitely worth checking out.
#15. Shred! 2
- Release Date: 2018
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Okay, I’m gonna admit that putting this game on this list is a bold move since this one is… an acquired taste I would say.
In short, it’s like the Trials games, but you’ll be using mountain bikes to ride through hand-crafted levels while pulling off combos and tackling challenges.
And as I said, most of you probably won’t be interested in this game. But for those of you who are exactly the target audience for this type of game, you’ll likely find it simple yet addictive. And hey, it’s only ten bucks, so why not give it a go?
#14. Action Henk
- Release Date: 2014
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
In this game, there’s no vehicle, but I still think it fits on this list.
As you can see, it’s a racing platformer where you play as action figures who run, jump, and slide through fun Hot Wheels-like tracks. And you know what? The aesthetics of this game remind me of the old PS1 Toy Story game, which honestly makes me feel a bit nostalgic.
And gameplay-wise, it has that easy-to-learn-but-hard-to-master vibe, which makes it surprisingly addictive for anyone it clicks with. So yeah, if you’re looking for something different, maybe give this one a try.
#13. Trackmania
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
Now, although this game might seem like a racing game, it’s actually catered more toward speedrun-oriented players than traditional racing fans.
In fact, the Trackmania fanbase has a significant overlap with Trials fans, as both series require precision and patience to excel. In short, it’s all about executing the right inputs at the right time alongside the obsession of perfecting every track and beating records.
So yeah, although the gameplay mechanics are different, if you enjoy the Trials games and haven’t checked out the Trackmania series, you definitely should—there’s a high chance you’ll like them.
#12. Descenders
- Release Date: 2019
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
This one is a sleeper hit in terms of popularity, with many players becoming addicted to it while also having a love-hate relationship with it.
And yes, the game is hard—there’s no doubt about that. The procedurally generated tracks also make it even tougher to practice, as each run presents a different course. But that’s exactly where the game shines. It’s essentially a skill-based mountain biking game with roguelike elements, where the goal is to see how many stages you can clear before running out of health.
So, yeah, if you’re up for a challenge, give this one a look.
#11. Trials Fusion
- Release Date: 2014
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
Okay, I think this is the game that helped make the Trials series more mainstream, alongside Trials Revolution.
And honestly, there’s not much to say about this game—it’s one of the big four Trials titles, which means it’s great, and you just need to figure out which one is your favorite. But you should know that the ninja scene is much more active in this game since 90% of top players and builders prefer it. So pick this one up if you’re serious about it.
Oh, and don’t forget to grab The Awesome MAX Edition to get the full experience.
#10. Elasto Mania Remastered
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Now, this is the oldest games on this list, serving as the successor to Action SuperCross, a similar game by the same developer, which is now too old to be in this video.
That said, the gameplay is still as tight as ever, especially for those who spent countless hours on it years ago. And yes, I doubt younger audiences will want to play this game, so yeah, skip this one if you don’t know what a floppy disk is.
Anyway, there’s a patch called Elma Online that lets you play against other players, so maybe give it a look.
#9. FutureGrind
- Release Date: 2019
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, SWITCH
Alright, if you played Uniracers on the SNES back in the ’90s, you might enjoy this hidden gem. In fact, some of you might pick it up purely for the nostalgic vibes, as both games share some similarities.
Now, this isn’t the best Trials-like game, but if you’re looking for a side-scrolling autorunner that demands quick reactions and precision, this one fits the bill—especially since you can perform tricks too. Basically, it’s a simple game that’s perfect for playing on the Switch while on the go.
Oh, and it often goes on sale, so don’t miss out!
#8. Laika: Aged Through Blood
- Release Date: 2023
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
Now, this game is actually a Metroidvania, but instead of the usual walking or running character, you’re riding a motorbike to traverse the world. And as expected, some Metroidvania fans dislike the game due to its unique gameplay mechanics, but for Trials fans, this is actually a great title to dive into.
In this game, combat encounters function like puzzles where you die in one hit and quickly respawn nearby. Think of it like a Trials course, where you need to execute specific movement-based ‘tricks’ at the right moment to overcome each challenge. So, yeah, definitely look into this.
#7. Lonely Mountains: Downhill
- Release Date: 2019
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
As you can see, this isn’t your typical 2.5D platforming Trials-like game. In fact, the gameplay mechanics are quite different—it’s a top-down 3D downhill mountain biking game where you must race through courses as fast as possible while completing challenges along the way.
That said, I think Trials fans will enjoy this one too since it requires you to master the controls and stay patient as you fail over and over again. Yeah, it definitely shares the same addictive elements that make the Trials games so fun.
And it’s cheap as hell too, so definitely pick this one up!
#6. Trials Rising
- Release Date: 2019
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Now, this one is the current go-to game when it comes to the Trials games, especially for beginners.
There’s a ton of content, both custom and career, plus a lot of resources to help you get better! And for speedrunning, the Mantis is fantastic—it has a flowier feel that many players prefer due to its handling.
That said, it does have its shortcomings, particularly with optimization and ninjas. The Mantis’ stiff suspension, magnetic feel, and throttle make high-level ninjas nearly impossible.
So, yeah, it’s the best all-around choice for most people, it’s just that it’s not for hardcore players.
#5. Trials HD
- Release Date: 2009
- Platform: XSX/S, X1
This title is the first of the big 4 Trials games, and honestly, we should respect it since it paved the way for the next releases.
Anyway, just like the other games, the flavor is different for each one, so you just need to pick the one you like.
However, if you decide to play this game as close as possible to its original form, make sure to play it on the Xbox Series X or Xbox One. While the HD tracks are available on Trials Evolution: Gold Edition on Steam, the physics are different, so keep that in mind.
#4. OlliOlli2: Welcome to Olliwood
- Release Date: 2015
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Okay, I get it—some of you might be asking, “What the hell are skating games doing in this video?”
Well, just like Trackmania, the fanbase of the Olli Olli series also overlaps with the fanbase of Trials games. I mean, differences aside, both series are very similar when it comes to the core elements of gameplay: which is a sidescrolling experience that is hard but addictive at the same time. It’s like a mix of Super Meat Boy and Tony Hawk’s games.
So, if you’re up for a skill-based challenge and want something new, then give this one a shot.
#3. Joe Danger
- Release Date: 2010
- Platform: PC, XSX/S, X1
Now, this was a legendary game back in its heyday despite the cartoony-looking visuals. It might look like a simple game, but beneath the simple and colorful visuals lies a game with great mechanics and addictive gameplay.
You might find this game played by little kids with their parents, but if you choose to play it, you might be shocked at how challenging it can be—especially if you’re a perfectionist who needs to complete every level down to the smallest objectives.
So, if you don’t have a problem playing games designed for kids, give this one a go.
#2. OlliOlli World
- Release Date: 2022
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Not many game series can improve upon each iteration; however, Olli Olli is one of those series that just keeps getting better with each title.
This title, which is the latest game in the franchise, is one of the most famous skateboarding games right now. It might not look like a full-blown 3D skateboarding game like Tony Hawk’s games or be as famous as them, but goddamn, it’s so good—especially if you’re into auto-runner platforming games.
So, yeah, I’d say get this one if you have a Switch and often play games while commuting or traveling.
#1. Trials Evolution
- Release Date: 2012
- Platform: PC, XSX/S, X1
First, I must let you know that the game’s online mode is already dead. However, that doesn’t mean the game is unplayable now.
I mean, the single-player is still great, especially if you get the Gold Edition on Steam, which includes tracks from Trials HD. The career is debatably the best, with great lines that have a lot of personality and quite a bit of content.
However, if you’re looking for ninjas, look elsewhere because the scene is nonexistent in this one. But still, if you only care about pushing yourself to the limit, this game will do the job.
So, do you agree with our picks?
Check out these other videos from us and be sure to subscribe and ring the bell to be notified about our latest videos.