The Best Racing Games for PS5

Racing games have always been a staple of the gaming world, offering a thrilling blend of speed, skill, and heart-pounding excitement. With the PlayStation 5’s powerful hardware, developers have been able to push the boundaries of realism, graphics, and gameplay to create some truly spectacular racing experiences. Whether you’re a fan of arcade racers or simulation-style driving, the PS5 has something for everyone. Here are some of the best racing games currently available for the console, showcasing the best in speed and thrills.

1. Gran Turismo 7

Graphics & Realism: Gran Turismo 7 takes full advantage of the PS5’s hardware, delivering breathtaking visuals and meticulously crafted tracks that look like they were pulled straight from the real world. From the stunning reflections on your car’s body to the way light interacts with different surfaces, every detail has been fine-tuned to perfection.

Gameplay: Known for its dedication to realism, Gran Turismo 7 offers a wide array of vehicles, from street cars to high-performance machines, each with its own handling characteristics. The game features a mix of arcade-style gameplay and realistic racing mechanics, making it a great choice for both newcomers and experienced racing sim fans.

What Makes It Stand Out: The incredible car selection, photo-realistic environments, and a variety of racing modes (including time trials, circuit races, and more) give players an immersive racing experience. The adaptive triggers and haptic feedback on the PS5 controller further enhance the feeling of being behind the wheel, adding to the sense of realism.

2. F1 2023

Graphics & Realism: F1 2023 is a high-speed spectacle, showcasing the latest Formula 1 season with stunning graphics that make the cars and tracks come alive. From the speed of the straights to the tight corners, the game makes you feel like you’re really driving one of the world’s most advanced machines. The weather effects, like rain and changing conditions, are also impressively realistic.

Gameplay: F1 2023 offers a challenging and rewarding experience with realistic driving physics that mimic the true-to-life dynamics of Formula 1 racing. Whether you’re participating in the full season or just taking on a single race, the game offers several modes for both casual players and those seeking an ultra-realistic experience.

What Makes It Stand Out: The attention to detail is unmatched, with real-world tracks and the latest F1 teams and drivers. Additionally, the career mode allows for deep customization and progression, allowing players to live out their dreams of becoming an F1 champion.

3. Dirt 5

Graphics & Realism: Dirt 5 embraces a more vibrant, over-the-top aesthetic compared to traditional racing sims. It doesn’t focus on ultra-realistic graphics but instead offers colorful environments, dynamic weather conditions, and a fast-paced, thrilling racing experience. The PS5 version features improved lighting, smoother frame rates, and impressive dirt-splattering physics.

Gameplay: Dirt 5’s off-road racing is chaotic, fun, and absolutely exhilarating. The game focuses on a variety of terrain, from mud-soaked tracks to snow-covered paths, and challenges players with wild vehicle handling and unpredictable conditions. It’s more arcade than simulation, meaning it’s accessible and highly enjoyable for casual players.

What Makes It Stand Out: The dynamic weather and changing track conditions keep each race fresh and exciting. Plus, the inclusion of a robust track editor allows players to design and race on their own custom courses, offering near-endless replayability.

4. WRC 10

Graphics & Realism: WRC 10 is a standout in terms of realism, offering some of the most detailed rally racing visuals available on the PS5. From the cars’ performance to the environment surrounding you, the game offers a truly immersive rally racing experience. The tracks are packed with dynamic weather and varied terrain, which further enhances the realism of the game.

Gameplay: As a true rally racing sim, WRC 10 provides a highly technical and rewarding experience. Players will need to master different types of vehicles and terrains, as rally racing involves a unique combination of speed, control, and strategy. The handling is nuanced and requires a learning curve, making it a great choice for fans of hardcore racing simulators.

What Makes It Stand Out: The game includes all the official teams, cars, and events from the 2021 World Rally Championship, along with a rich career mode. The dynamic weather and day-night cycle add another layer of strategy and excitement to each race.

5. Hot Wheels Unleashed

Graphics & Realism: While Hot Wheels Unleashed is not a simulation racer, its toy-like aesthetic and vibrant, colorful tracks are beautifully designed. The tracks are filled with loops, jumps, and insane shortcuts that make every race feel like an action-packed adventure. The PS5 version runs at a buttery smooth 60fps, enhancing the experience.

Gameplay: This arcade racer is fast, fun, and easy to pick up. Players can race a variety of Hot Wheels cars through imaginative, over-the-top tracks filled with ramps, obstacles, and crazy stunts. The game’s simplicity is what makes it so enjoyable for all ages, offering a great time without the need for a steep learning curve.

What Makes It Stand Out: The sheer fun factor of Hot Wheels Unleashed sets it apart. It’s fast, frantic, and incredibly fun with both local and online multiplayer modes. The ability to customize cars and tracks adds a personal touch to the gameplay, and the game’s accessibility makes it a perfect choice for casual gamers.