Put the Pedal to the Metal with the Best Sim Racing Games

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Despite having never stepped foot in a dedicated piece of racing machinery, I've covered thousands of miles of pavement across some of the most iconic race circuits around the world, all from the comfort of my home. How, you ask? With the help of sim racing.

Sim racing, for those uninitiated, is a subset of gaming that focuses on delivering a lifelike driving experience through dedicated motorsport games and accompanying computer and gaming peripherals, such as sim racing wheels, pedals, seats, shifters, and more.

Much like in the world of motorsport, there are different sim racing games for all kinds of racers. In this article, we're breaking down seven of the best games available for PC and console, and providing a brief overview to help you better find the game that best fits your style.

Things to Consider When Buying a Sim Racing Game

Diving into the world of sim racing is thrilling, but depending on your desired experience, it can be a serious investment. Let's start by saying there's no one-size-fits-all, and what tickles your racing fancy might not do the same for others. Here are some things you should consider when picking out a sim racing game:

Realism and Physics: First and foremost, ask yourself, "How real do I want this to feel?" Some folks like it authentic; others, not so much. Games like Assetto Corsa and iRacing are renowned for their realistic physics. They simulate tire wear, weight transfer, and even how temperature affects the track. However, if you want something less punishing and more forgiving, you might prefer titles like the F1 series or Forza Motorsport.

Car and Track Selection: What sort of cars are you looking to race with? And what tracks do you want to race them around? Games like Assetto Corsa and iRacing have an extensive list of cars and tracks. Some, like Forza Motorsport, even dabble in fantasy tracks, which can be a fun alternative to the real thing. Be sure to check out what is available for each game before making a purchase to ensure it fits what you're looking for.

Learning Curve and Accessibility: Sim racing can sometimes feel as complex as rocket science, so consider how much time you want to invest. Something with a gentler learning curve might be more appealing if you're a newcomer. Gran Turismo Sport, for instance, is known for being beginner-friendly.

Multiplayer and Community: If you're the type who gets a kick out of wheel-to-wheel racing with humans instead of AI, check out the multiplayer options. Games like iRacing have a huge competitive scene and a vibrant community.

Customization and Modding: If you like to tinker under the hood or yearn for tracks and cars that aren't officially available, you should check the modding scene. Assetto Corsa, for instance, has a huge modding community, and you can find everything from go-karts to Mars rovers to race with.

Hardware Compatibility: Got some shiny gear or a killer racing rig? Double-check that the game you're eyeballing supports your hardware. Thrustmaster, Logitech, and Fanatec are popular brands, and while most games support them, it's better to be safe than sorry.

System Requirements and Platform: Keep in mind what system you're playing on. PC is generally the go-to for hardcore sim racers, but consoles like PlayStation and Xbox have some fantastic offerings too. Just ensure your rig or console can handle the game smoothly.

Budget and Ongoing Costs: Finally, let's talk about the wallet. While nearly every game comes with a standard set of cars and tracks, most games also offer additional content through in-game purchases. For example, iRacing requires you to purchase a license to use specific vehicles and tracks, while games like rFactor 2 offer genre-specific add-ons for endurance racing and other series-specific content. Keep both initial and ongoing costs in mind before putting your foot to the pedal.

iRacing (PC)

Ah, iRacing, the alpha dog of the sim racing world. The title that manages to bridge the gap between gaming and real motorsport so finely, it's revered by both sim racers and professional drivers alike. I've spent hundreds of hours behind the wheel of dozens of cars in iRacing, and while iRacing might not necessarily excel in one specific area, it stands above the rest with its online multiplayer and competitive series, which rewards clean driving and patience while also pushing you to your limits.

Unlike every other game on this list, iRacing is a subscription-based service that boasts an unparalleled level of realism. The laser-scanned tracks are meticulous down to the millimeter, and the physics engine is as close to real-life racing as you can get without strapping into an actual race car. Dynamic weather and track conditions keep you on your toes, as you'll have to adapt your driving technique constantly, just like in an actual race.

What sets iRacing apart from the crowd, though, is its competitive ecosystem. The iRacing community is a melting pot of enthusiasts and professional racers, and the ranking system ensures you're matched with drivers of a similar skill level. It's not just about turning laps; it's about racing culture, sportsmanship, and the ongoing development of your skills.

The official series and special events, some of which even allow you to qualify for real-world races, provide an experience beyond just playing a game—it's an ongoing virtual racing career. If you're looking to challenge yourself against the best and are willing to invest both time and resources, iRacing is the pinnacle of sim racing.

F1 23 (PC, Playstation, Xbox)

F1 23 is the latest officially licensed Formula 1 racing game developed by Codemasters. It builds upon the success of its predecessors, offering a realistic racing experience as simple or sophisticated as you'd like.

While the initial versions of the F1 series were more arcade than simulation, Codemasters has steadily added more advanced features and integrations to bring it more in line with the likes of more traditional sim racing games. This makes it a great game for anyone getting started with sim racing, as you can start with all the driver-assists turned on and remove them as your skill level progresses.

As you'd expect from an officially licensed game, F1 2023 allows you to race as all of your favorite F1, F2, and F3 drivers across all of the tracks used throughout the 2023 F1 season, including the new Las Vegas and Qatar circuits. Other new additions to F1 23 include a new "Braking Point 2" story mode and "F1 World" hub. The latter further immerses you into what it's like to partake in a full Formula 1 race season by allowing you to level up with a new progression system. You can complete challenges, compete for rewards, earn upgrades, and even snag true-to-life F1 livery, suit, and helmet drops.

While I haven't played F1 2023 yet, I have raced F1 2020, '21, and '22, and it's clear that Codemasters is continually looking for ways to improve the overall experience and realism of the F1 racing world without abandoning budding sim racers. F1 2023 is available to pre-order for PC, Playstation, and Xbox. It releases on June 16.

rFactor 2 (PC)

Developed by Studio 397, rFactor 2 has been around for a while but continues to be revered for its depth and complexity. Its physics engine is second to none, and for the true sim racing aficionados who love to tinker, this game is a treasure chest. Its deep customization options allow you to fine-tune almost every aspect of the car, and its physics modeling, especially in terms of tire dynamics and chassis flex, is legendary among the community. The game offers a wide range of cars and tracks, including some historical content, which is a treat for motorsport history buffs.

One of rFactor 2's distinctive features is its real-road technology, where the track surface evolves. Rubber gets laid down in the racing line as more cars drive over it, and marbles (bits of rubber that shed from tires) build up off the line. This means you have to adapt your driving as the track conditions change, similar to what real-world drivers face throughout a race weekend. Moreover, the game's modding support is extraordinary; the community has created many cars, tracks, and plugins that immensely enhance and expand the game. For these reasons, rFactor 2 is an enduring icon for those seeking a deep, complex, and highly customizable sim racing experience.

Assetto Corsa Competizione (PC, Playstation, Xbox)