Summer is the perfect time to relax, have fun, and maybe even learn a new skill or two. If you’re a fan of racing and video games, then you’re in luck! There are many great sim racing simulation games out there that can provide you with hours of entertainment and help you improve much more than just your driving skills.
These games can also help maintain your competitive spirit sharp throughout the year, develop crucial mental faculties like stress and emotion management, and foster a “racer” mindset. It is no coincidence if reigning F1 World Champion Max Verstappen is also a pro simracer, and the vast majority of young drivers rising up through the ranks of the feeder series single-seaters ladder also use these sim racing games.
You’ll learn how to attack opponents, resist their attacks, and handle the tension that comes with high-stakes competition. Here are five of the best racing simulation games to try this summer:
- iRacing
iRacing is the “real deal” of racing games, widely considered to be the most realistic racing simulation game on the market. This game is a favorite among professional racers and sim enthusiasts alike and offers a highly competitive online multiplayer community. Perfect for those serious about virtual racing, it requires a subscription (60€ for one year subscription), but it is undoubtedly worth every cent for its unmatched realism and depth. The game also uses a sophisticated ranking system to ensure that you are always racing against opponents of similar skill levels, making every race both challenging and fair.
More info : https://www.iracing.com/
- Assetto Corsa
Love a variety of cars and tracks? Assetto Corsa is your go-to game. It offers a wide range of cars from classic models to modern supercars, and incredibly detailed tracks, thanks to the laser-scanning technology also used on iRacing. Additionally, Assetto Corsa supports mods, allowing players to add even more cars and tracks created by the community. This flexibility makes it ideal for both casual players looking for a diverse selection and hardcore enthusiasts who want to tweak every detail to their liking. If you are looking for a vast array of racing experiences, this is your game. Plus, it is now available at a very reasonable price, and there are often promotional discounts, making it an even better deal.
More info : https://assettocorsa.gg/
- rFactor 2
rFactor 2 is a playground for sim racing enthusiasts who love to tweak and customize. It offers super realistic car physics and a vibrant and passionate modding community, so you can add all sorts of cars and tracks. The weather can change during races, affecting your strategy. If you’re not bothered by outdated graphics and less polished interface (this game is almost 20 years old), rFactor offers unparalleled control for those who want to fine-tune every aspect of their racing experience.
For endurance racing fans, the developers have also released a game available now in early access called Le Mans Ultimate. This game is an official license of the World Endurance Series and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, featuring all laser-scanned circuits, highly detailed cars.
More info : https://www.rfactor.net/ / https://lemansultimate.com/
- F1 24
If you’re a fan of F1 racing, F1 24 is THE number one choice. It’s officially licensed, so you’ll find all the real official teams, drivers, and tracks from the current F1 season. The game offers a mix of realism and fun, with good graphics and dynamic weather. It’s easy to pick up and play but still offers a deep experience for those who want to dig in. Perfect for casual players who prefer a game that leans more towards arcade than simulation.
More info : https://www.ea.com/fr-fr/games/f1/f1-24/buy/pc
- Gran Turismo 7
Gran Turismo is perfect if you’re new to racing sims. It offers a good balance between arcade-style fun and realistic racing. You’ll find a variety of cars and tracks, and the game focuses on online competition with daily races and events. Plus, regular updates add new content and refine the driving physics. The game also includes a detailed career mode where players can progress through various disciplines. It’s a visually stunning game that’s both fun and accessible. One small downside: only available on Sony consoles (PS4 or PS5).
More info : https://www.gran-turismo.com/
Conclusion
So, which racing simulation game is the best? It depends on your priorities: iRacing or Assetto Corsa for top realism, Gran Turismo for polished visuals and career mode, rFactor for extensive customization, or F1 24 for Formula 1 fans. Each offers a unique experience, so choose based on what excites you the most!
Want to experience professional-level sim racing? At WINFIELD, we offer top-notch simulators to hone your skills. Check them out here : https://winfieldracingschool.com/corporate-events/simulator/
