Racing video games are often overlooked when talking about the greatest titles ever. But this doesn’t mean they aren’t thrilling or are not worth playing. There are so many remarkable racing games, more fabulous than the mainstream action and ball sports video games.
In this article, we look at five best racing games ever made, according to games review experts, Metacritic.
Gran Turismo(96)
Developed Polyphony Digital, Gran Turismo was a hit amongst racing game fans in 1997. Upon its release, the game set new standards for racing video games and manifested the potential of racing games. It took five years to develop the game, and the wait paid off as it raked in a cool 96% on Metacritic.
During its time, it offered a considerable amount of cars, tracks, gameplay modes, and mechanics; features which racing video games didn’t have at that time.
Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec (95)
Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec was the first racing video game in the GranTurismo series released on PlayStation 2. Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec had excellent graphics, detailed gameplay, and tuned control systems. This video game was awarded the best racing game of 2001 and sold more than 15 million units.
Need For Speed: Shift (94)
Need For Speed: Shift was released in 2009. The racing simulator emphasized sim gameplay over the series’ traditional arcade-style. NFS: Shift is praised for its awesome content, detailed in-car view, excellent control, and graphics. Need For Speed: Shift scored 94% in the Metacritic racing video ranking aggregate.
Jet Car Stunts (94)
Jet Car Stunts was released in 2009 when mobile racing games were gaining fame. The iOS game was well received and was among the best iPhone and iPad games of that time. The level design was detailed and expansive and had incredible touch control fluidity. Jet Car Stunts boasted a mix of hoop jump, ramp vaulting, and rocket-propelled madness.
Burnout 3: Takedown (94)
Burnout 3 was released in 2004, and it is characterized by fast-paced arcade racing. The car’s speed is increased by using the boost well and risky driving. Burnout 3 has a unique Takedown mechanic and enables players to attack rival vehicles and cause monetary damage at junctions with heavy traffic. Burnout 3: Takedown scored 94% in the Metacritic game ranking aggregate.
And it’s not just these five. Racing games like Test Drive Le Mans (93), Mario Kart Super Circuit (93), Gran Turismo 2 (93), and Real Racing 2 (94) were also phenomenal.
Even with the new engine technologies, the modern day gaming developers will struggle to achieve the impressive Metacritic ratings the above titles scored.
