The Best Multiplayer Racing Games for Competitive Play
Racing games have always been a staple of competitive gaming, and the multiplayer aspect adds a thrilling layer of excitement. Whether you’re into high-speed street racing, realistic simulators, or arcade-style fun, there’s a game for every type of racer. Here are some of the best multiplayer racing games for competitive play in 2025 that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Switch)
Why It’s Great for Competitive Play: If you want fast-paced, chaotic, and fun multiplayer racing, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must-play. It’s easy to pick up, yet difficult to master, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned gamers. The vibrant tracks, crazy power-ups, and iconic characters from the Mario universe add a fun, whimsical touch to the competitive racing scene.
Key Features:
- Cross-Platform Play: Up to 8 players can race together locally or online.
- Power-ups and Items: Classic items like the Blue Shell, Bananas, and Mushrooms make every race unpredictable.
- Variety of Tracks: 48 tracks, including those from past Mario Kart games and downloadable content (DLC).
- Customizable Karts: Personalize your kart for the best performance.
Why It’s Perfect for Competitive Play: The game is known for its dynamic, unpredictable nature. While skill matters, luck with power-ups can be a game-changer, keeping races exciting and competitive.
**2. Forza Horizon 5 (PC, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One)
Why It’s Great for Competitive Play: Forza Horizon 5 takes the racing genre to a whole new level by blending open-world exploration with competitive racing. The game features a massive, beautiful map based on Mexico, complete with diverse terrain—from deserts and jungles to mountains and cities.
Key Features:
- Open-World Racing: Explore and race across a vast, dynamic world with changing weather and seasons.
- Massive Car Selection: Over 500 cars to choose from, including hypercars, off-road vehicles, and muscle cars.
- Racing Events: Numerous racing events, from street races to dirt trails, catering to all types of racing preferences.
- Custom Multiplayer Races: Create custom events and share them with others online, offering endless competitive racing possibilities.
Why It’s Perfect for Competitive Play: Forza Horizon 5 offers a seamless blend of free-roaming exploration and intense competitive racing. It’s perfect for players who want to race in a dynamic, ever-changing world while competing with others online.
**3. Gran Turismo 7 (PS5, PS4)
Why It’s Great for Competitive Play: Gran Turismo 7 is the epitome of realistic simulation racing. Developed by Polyphony Digital, it offers a driving experience that’s as close as possible to real-world racing. Whether you’re on a road track, circuit, or in an endurance race, Gran Turismo 7 demands precision and skill.
Key Features:
- Realistic Physics and Driving Dynamics: One of the most realistic driving models on the market.
- Car Customization: A deep garage system where players can modify and tune their cars for better performance.
- Online Multiplayer: Compete in organized online races, with various tournaments and seasons.
- Dynamic Weather and Day/Night Cycles: These elements affect race conditions and require adaptive strategies.
Why It’s Perfect for Competitive Play: With its focus on realism and strategic depth, Gran Turismo 7 appeals to hardcore racing fans who want to master the physics of driving while competing against the best in online leagues.
**4. F1 23 (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One)
Why It’s Great for Competitive Play: F1 23 continues the Formula 1 tradition of high-speed, competitive racing. With official F1 drivers, teams, and cars, the game offers a thrilling experience for fans of the sport and racing enthusiasts alike. The simulation aspect is incredibly detailed, allowing players to experience the intensity of Formula 1 racing.
Key Features:
- Official F1 Teams and Drivers: Includes all the teams, drivers, and circuits from the 2023 Formula 1 season.
- Realistic Racing: Dynamic weather, tire wear, fuel management, and race strategy play a significant role.
- Multiplayer Leagues: Compete in online leagues, race against friends, or join global communities.
- Team Management: Players can manage their own team, hire drivers, and strategize for the season.
Why It’s Perfect for Competitive Play: F1 23 is perfect for players who want a highly strategic racing experience with deep immersion in the world of Formula 1 racing. The multiplayer modes and realistic simulation make it a top choice for competitive racing gamers.
**5. WRC Generations (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One)
Why It’s Great for Competitive Play: If you’re into rally racing, WRC Generations is the definitive experience for intense off-road competition. Offering a true-to-life simulation of the World Rally Championship, it’s the best way to experience the challenge of rally racing on various terrains, including dirt, snow, and asphalt.
Key Features:
- Official WRC Cars and Teams: Includes all the official teams, cars, and drivers from the 2023 season.
- Dynamic Weather and Terrain: Each race is different with changing weather conditions and challenging environments.
- Extensive Career Mode: Build your career as a rally driver, managing your team and improving your skills.
- Multiplayer Mode: Engage in rally races online, with the ability to compete in multiplayer leagues and time trials.
Why It’s Perfect for Competitive Play: The challenging nature of rally racing, combined with dynamic weather conditions and rugged terrains, makes WRC Generations ideal for those looking for intense, competitive multiplayer racing in a unique off-road setting.
**6. Need for Speed Unbound (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S)
Why It’s Great for Competitive Play: Need for Speed Unbound returns to the street racing scene with a bold, artistic design that makes it stand out. It combines the high-speed thrills of street racing with a deep sense of customization and competition, perfect for gamers who enjoy an arcade-style racing experience.
Key Features:
- Street Racing Action: Fast-paced races through urban environments, with a focus on style, speed, and illegal street racing.
- Custom Cars: Extensive customization options for your car’s performance and appearance, allowing for personalized racing machines.
- Online Multiplayer: Race against friends or random players in competitive street races and time trials.
- Police Pursuits: Get chased by cops, adding a layer of tension to every race.
Why It’s Perfect for Competitive Play: With easy-to-pick-up gameplay and the ability to race against a variety of opponents in dynamic environments, Need for Speed Unbound is ideal for those who prefer arcade racing with a focus on high-speed action and car customization.
**7. Dirt 5 (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One)
Why It’s Great for Competitive Play: For fans of off-road racing, Dirt 5 is one of the best options for competitive play. It offers a wide variety of vehicles and tracks, making it a blast for anyone who enjoys a challenging but fun racing experience.
Key Features:
- Off-Road Thrills: Race on dirt, snow, ice, and mud across dynamic tracks.
- Customizable Cars: Tune and modify your vehicles for off-road dominance.
- Multiplayer Events: Compete in dynamic online multiplayer modes, including split-screen and races against AI.
- Global Tracks: Race on real-world-inspired tracks in a variety of weather conditions.
Why It’s Perfect for Competitive Play: The mix of challenging off-road environments and varied multiplayer modes makes Dirt 5 a fantastic game for players looking to race competitively in all kinds of rugged conditions.
Conclusion
These multiplayer racing games are some of the best competitive experiences available, whether you’re looking for realistic simulations or arcade-style fun. Whether you want to feel the thrill of Formula 1, explore open-world landscapes in Forza Horizon 5, or enjoy high-speed street racing in Need for Speed, there’s something for every type of racer. So, grab your controller, rev up your engines, and get ready to race!