Summary
Microsoft’s stronghold in the racing games industry, spearheaded by theForzafranchise, is evident. Unsurprisingly, Xbox Game Pass, the company’s premier subscription service, has a stellar lineup of rally games, courtesy of both first- and third-party developers. This compilation introduces someessential racing games on Xbox Game Pass, considering factors such as gameplay, graphics, and critical acclaim.
The following racing games stand out for their innovative twists on genre mechanics. However, the dominance of remastered titles suggests the genre struggles to maintain the same excitement that older games did. Furthermore, competition has narrowed to just a few franchises, resulting in a lack of fresh approaches to the genre. Nowadays, many racing games are essentially rebranded versions of previous-generation titles. Still, gamers can enjoy some quality realistic simulators and adrenaline-pumping races on Game Pass.
The Metacritic scores provided for each game reflect its overall rating on Xbox consoles. (In cases where the new-gen version lacks enough reviews, the score of the previous-gen Xbox console version is used instead.)
WhenRocket Leaguemerged soccer with racing, it unexpectedly created an addictive, adrenaline-fueled frenzy. Similarly,Turbo Golf Racingfollows a unique formula, combining car racing with golfing.
InTurbo Golf Racing, players controlHot Wheels-style cars equipped to shoot golf balls. The objective is simple: be the first to sink the ball into the hole, a more individualistic spin onRocket League’s team-based matches.
As a standalone $10 game,Turbo Golf Racingmight not offer the best value. Its gameplay can become monotonous due to a lack of diverse modes. However, asa free bonus on Game Pass, it presents a risk-free, family-friendly, and joy-filled racing experience that stands out from the crowd.
ImagineCrash Team Racing, but withLEGOcars. That’s the basic idea behindLEGO 2K Drive, but it goes far beyond expectations. As aracing game, it excels with its fast-paced, visually stunning competition. Yet its true charm lies in its customization mode, allowing players to craft their idealLEGOracing car — or even watercraft — using realistic components.
Beyond the joy of drivingLEGOcars,2K Driveimpressively portrays a miniature world on a grand scale. Its four-biome open-world map caters to free-roaming enthusiasts, while challenges and side quests add variety and depth, keeping gameplay fresh and engaging.
A video game featuringHot Wheelstoys could be the bridge between generations of gamers. Mattel’s model cars, in production since 1968, are among the most enduring toys in history, beloved by many for their flashy yet practical designs.Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbochargedelevates the charm of these miniature cars to new heights, offering gamers a blend of realism and fantasy in a turbochargedHot Wheelsuniverse.
What setsHot Wheels Unleashed 2apart is its enhancement ofthe best features from its predecessor. The addition of basic gameplay mechanics like jumping and dashing improves competitiveness, while new elements such as Classes enrich the car selection process, offering a more immersive experience. Moreover, the game’s customization options and creative track builder mode have been overhauled to satisfy players' creative endeavors and competitive spirits. In essence, it’sHot Wheels Unleashed 1on steroids.
The originalHot Pursuitis theBurnout Paradisefor beginners in the car-crashing racing genre. UnlikeBurnout,Hot Pursuitmaintained classic guided tracks while placing a strong emphasis on destruction mechanics, which became central to its gameplay.WhenBurnoutreceived a remaster, EA felt compelled to do the same for its rival series to maintain competition, a decision that delighted a new generation of gamers.
Need for SpeedHot Pursuit Remasteredis a visually-enhanced and technically superior reimagining of the original release. At first glance, it appears to be a polished version tailored for current-gen consoles. However, beneath the surface,Hot Pursuit Remasteredexpands upon the 2010 edition with improved performance, more lifelike graphics, and additional content to explore, including all released DLCs bundled into one package.
WhenBurnout Paradisewas released in 2008, it revolutionizedthe racing game genre, offering players an unexpected yet essential experience. Packed with action-oriented gameplay mechanics and a cinematic camera system reminiscent of Hollywood car chases, the game delivered an exhilarating experience. Now, new-generation players can enjoy the same level of excitement with the 2018 remastered version.
Critics widely agree thatBurnout Paradise’sapproach to remastering the original hit, maintaining a “don’t fix if it’s not broken” philosophy, has been successful. The remastered version retains the essence of the 2008 release while enhancing its visuals and preserving nostalgic cars, soundtracks, and scenery. It embodieseverything a top-notch remaster should be. For those seeking the thrill of reckless driving without the real-life risks,Burnout Paradise Remasteredis the ultimate choice.
Wrecking a prized car has never been more enjoyable. In terms of gameplay,Wreckfestresembles a metal concert: chaotic yet immensely entertaining. Players pilot playful replicas of renowned race cars on tracks devoid of rules, where colliding with other vehicles is not only inevitable but also somewhat necessary. It’s a case of either bumping into the next car or facing the consequences when they bump first.
What setsWreckfestapart, and makes it one of the finest racing titles in Xbox Game Pass’s collection, is the intense excitement and competition it fosters among players. Opting for the Realistic Destruction setting transforms every car crash into a life-or-death scenario, while inventive game modes like elimination matches inject freshness into the gameplay. As the title implies,Wreckfestis a celebration of demolishing expensive vehicles and reveling in it — a peculiar delight that resonates with many players, even those unfamiliar with such competitions.
If there were a checklist of ten things any masterpiece-level racing game should have,Forza Horizon 5would check off all of them. It embodies everything a player could desire and more. From leisurely free-roam driving to exhilarating rallies,Forza Horizon 5strikes the perfect balance of visuals, gameplay, and content, showcasing the best of every category among all the racing titles available. This fact is nearly indisputable.
