Hey everyone! Today we’re counting down our picks for the best drifting games you should check out.
And without further ado, let’s dive right in.
#15. DRIFTCE
- Release Date: 2021
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
Overall, DRIFTCE stands out as the most realistic dedicated drifting simulator I’ve experienced on the Xbox.
Building and customizing cars is enjoyable, and the driving itself is challenging because achieving even just a basic drift feels like an accomplishment. And while the game’s difficulty may deter some players, others will be motivated by the steep challenge.
So, if you consider yourself a Touge master, DRIFTCE is a must-play.
#14. Torque Drift
- Release Date: 2021
- Platform: PC
Torque Drift is a dedicated drifting game that offers a relaxing drift experience with impressive graphics and various features, all for free.
However, it has its drawbacks: the game employs a pay-to-win model, with DLC cars often outperforming standard ones. And while this may be a downside, considering the game’s free nature, it’s understandable.
Overall, it’s worth trying out, but be aware of the potential pay-to-win aspect.
#13. Drift King
- Release Date: 2022
- Platform: PC, SWITCH
The price of this game is reasonable for the quality, and supporting small developers definitely feels good.
The game also boasts impressive visuals, and the cars look great. The handling and physics are top-notch, although using a wheel feels a bit strange to some.
Moreover, the counter-steer feature makes it easier with a keyboard and controller but complicates things with a wheel. But despite this, it’s a cool game.
#12. OverDrift Festival
- Release Date: 2022
- Platform: PC
This game stands out as one of the best drift-focused experiences available.
The variety of cars caters to different styles and cultures, but the car unlock system feels unnecessary and tedious. Moreover, the car upgrade system is straightforward, with noticeable differences in performance. Visually and mechanically, the game also impresses.
Simply put, it’s one of the best-looking and most polished drift games, with satisfying car handling and diverse tracks.
#11. Initial Drift Online
- Release Date: 2023
- Platform: PC
The base game content is quite enjoyable so far. Besides the tofu delivery, there are also four different mountain tops to race on, along with a drift course.
And considering it’s only about $2, it offers more than I anticipated.
Overall, it’s a great game for relaxed driving around. So, for those who haven’t tried drifting games before, this could be a good starting point.
#10. Project CARS 3
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS4, X1
Project CARS 3 is a departure from its predecessor, making it difficult to recommend to fans of Project CARS 2.
While it offers accessible gameplay and solid racing for casual enjoyment, it lacks the uniqueness that sets it apart from other racing games.
But despite not being a proper drifting game, you can still do some fun drifting in this game, provided you know how to do it.
#9. Touge Shakai
- Release Date: 2023
- Platform: PC
Touge Shakai is ideal for passing the time, offering realistic physics that strike a balance between authenticity and enjoyment.
However, while the handling may initially feel worse, it will provide a more challenging experience that’s enjoyable. The multiplayer mode also provides a unique experience, allowing you to tear up mountain roads with friends.
And despite being an indie game, the customization and modeling are impressive. Overall, I highly recommend it.
#8. GRID Legends
- Release Date: 2022
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
While not immediately apparent, Grid Legends represents a notable improvement over Grid 2019, offering a wider array of circuits, race types, and innovative hop-in multiplayer functionality.
And while not a real drifting game, just like many other sim racing games, you can drift in this game if you know how to do it.
Nevertheless, the accessible racing action remains thrilling, with intense contact and excitement.
#7. The Crew Motorfest
- Release Date: 2023
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
Drifting plays a vital role in this game, which adds flair and strategy to races. And to initiate a drift, simply enter a turn at high speed, steer into it, and tap either the brakes or handbrake.
However, mastering the timing and execution without crashing or losing momentum is the real challenge. But with practice, you can glide stylishly around corners and gain an edge in races.
#6. Need for Speed Unbound
- Release Date: 2022
- Platform: PC, PS5, XSX/S
As with many racing games, drifting plays a significant role in Need For Speed Unbound. It aids in navigating corners without sacrificing too much speed and allows players to build up boost.
However, mastering drifting takes practice, and fortunately, the game offers customizable settings for drift activation. You can adjust these settings to suit your preference, which makes the experience more personalized.
#5. Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged
- Release Date: 2023
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
In this game, mastering drifting is essential for navigating its twisty plastic tracks.
And unlike Mario Kart, drifting here requires finesse rather than simply holding down a dedicated button. But fortunately, the game offers a new drift challenge mode for practicing your sideways driving skills.
Moreover, timing a boost as you exit a drift provides a valuable speed boost, allowing you to overtake opponents with ease.
#4. Forza Motorsport
- Release Date: 2023
- Platform: PC, XSX/S
In Forza Motorsport, mastering drifting requires practice and experience, much like real-life driving.
And unlike some games, there’s no special key combination to initiate a drift; it’s all about controlling the direction of your car by using the handbrake during the turn.
When you apply the handbrake, the rear wheels will lock, initiating the drift. And to maintain the drift, you must continue applying gas smoothly while controlling the steering.
#3. Gran Turismo 7
- Release Date: 2022
- Platform: PS5, PS4
Drifting in Gran Turismo 7 follows a straightforward process, just like real-life driving. So, if you’re an actual drifter in real life, you can do it too in this game.
However, using a controller is recommended over a steering wheel, especially for beginners, as drifting can be more challenging with a wheel setup. Start with a controller to hone your skills before attempting drifting with a steering wheel.
#2. Inertial Drift
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
This game offers a refreshing take on arcade racing. Its drift stick adds a fantastic twist, blending arcade fantasy with nuanced handling.
Moreover, mastering each vehicle is both challenging and rewarding, while the courses provide memorable corners at every turn.
And with its high-speed thrills, Inertial Drift is a must-play for arcade racing enthusiasts who are interested in a casual racing game with some drifting sprinkled on top.
#1. Forza Horizon 5
- Release Date: 2021
- Platform: PC, XSX/S, X1
The drifting story mode features missions where you’ll test your skills with iconic cars like the AE86 and Skyline.
Additionally, drift zones are scattered across the map, offering opportunities to earn more drift points and combos by mastering the curves.
And investing in a pre-built drift-spec car or customizing your own with XP also allows you to maximize your drifting potential, which can help you gain even more XP.
So, do you agree with our picks?
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