The Best Racing Games Currently Available on PS4

There’s nothing quite as exhilarating as having the chance to play a racing game, and no system is greater for this than the PS4. With stunning graphics and high-powered mechanics, Playstation takes racing to another level. While cross-platform series’ like Need for Speed have brought their franchises to the system with stunning graphics and gameplay, smaller franchise games released on PS4 seem to shine just as brightly in this genre.

So, what racing games should you be checking out on the Playstation 4? Here’s a list of the top racing games currently available.

Driveclub

The visuals are simply amazing, weather effects are breathtaking, and the gameplay works just as well, in my opinion. It plays similar to that of the XBOX racing franchise Forza – it's familiar in certain ways. Why this game doesn't grab an average rating of 9 out of 10 is beyond me. Driveclub is probably the best available if you're after an authentic and realistic simulation. Just don't take your attention off the road for too long as you admire the wonderful environments – they really are stunning.

Rocket League

What’s better than playing a racing game? How about combining racing with soccer? That’s exactly what Psyonix, the developers behind Rocket League, have done, and the result is nothing short of amazing. Rocket League is one of the highest rated racing games available right now.  As far as systems go, the only console the game is available on is the Playstation 4. However, computer based gamers can also play it on both PC and Mac.

Rocket League, which was released in July 2015, is the sequel to the 2008 video game SARPBC (Supersonic Acrobatic Rocket-Powered Battle-Cars).  The game focuses on use of rocket powered vehicles, which players utilize to propel a ball larger than their vehicle towards their opponent’s goal. Players can play Rocket League in both single player and multiplayer modes, and cross-platform play with PC gamers is possible.  This heart-pounding game is chaotic, but fun, and the well-designed multiplayer options makes it even more exhilarating!

Project CARS

The Project CARS racing simulator allows gamers to take racing to the next level. The game is a racing simulator, but it offers a sandbox style gaming experience. No matter what kind of racing you like, Project CARS probably features it. Slightly Mad Studios, the developers behind the game, wanted Project CARS to be available with features that would titillate all racing gamers.  Project CARS features a new and improved version of the Madness engine, which has been used on some of the Need for Speed titles, particularly Need for Speed: Shift.

Project CARS includes 74 cars that can be driven on 110 race courses in 30 different racing locations. This is one of the best racing simulators available for any gaming platform. While the graphics may be its only weakness, they are good but not stellar, racing fans should have few complaints about this title. Play in career mode, and work your way up the racing ladder, participate in time trials, weekly events, and gain experience through practice mode. Project CARS is designed so gamers can play with both a steering wheel and a controller. The game is often considered the best racing simulator to be released on a console, and with good reason.

Need for Speed: Rivals

This game is a little bit older than the two previous titles, which were both released in 2015, but the outstanding graphics and gameplay make Need for Speed: Rivals still relevant two years after its release.  The game features open world game play, and players can take on the role of either a cop or a racer. Gamers can utilize 11 upgradable gadgets, and as cops they can call-in roadblocks or use spike strips.  Both cops and racers can play in career mode and advance through the game. Progression unlocks a plethora of cars, and the ability to take shortcuts not available on the game map.  There is also the ability to use the Autolog system to compete against friends, and the AllDrive social system, which helps players cross between single player to multiplayer gameplay.

As a racer, players take on the role of Zephyr, a well-known and talented street racer. As the cop, players complete training to become members of the Redview County Police Department. As an officer, the player is then able to infiltrate the world of street racing, to go beyond the law, and take down the illegal street racing operation. The ultimate goal is to take on Zephyr.  This is what a racing game is supposed to look like, and on the PS4, Need for Speed: Rivals offers unparalleled graphics with heart-racing gameplay. It’s hard for a sequel game to be better than its predecessor, but fans of the Need for Speed franchise have found Rivals to be one of the best racing games in the genre.

Trials Fusion

If you’re looking for something that is fun and all about bike racing, then this is the game for you. One of the great things about Trials Fusion is that the online community helps to drive new content, making the game constantly feel fresh. Make your very own courses and share them for other players to enjoy. Experience jumps and stunts that are simply crazy. The visuals are simple and work well for a game that’s purpose is primarily to provide fun. This one is a must have and can be picked up for under $20.