Introduction to Iconic Racing Games
Gamers, start your controllers! This week marks the long-anticipated return of simulation stock car racing with the release of NASCAR 25, developed by iRacing Studios. Get ready to compete for championship glory with the likes of Ryan Blaney, William Byron, Chase Elliott, and all your other favorite NASCAR stars. Since we’re all revved up for racing, that got us thinking — what racing video games throughout history stand the test of time?
Ranking the Most Iconic Racing Games
We ranked the 10 most iconic racing games that have made a significant impact on the gaming community. These games have been chosen for their innovative gameplay, engaging graphics, and lasting popularity.
Top 10 Iconic Racing Games
- Mario Kart 8: Released in 2014/2017 (Deluxe), Mario Kart 8 perfected the Mario Kart model, with over a decade of relevance and series and genre records for sales. It’s the most significant version of Mario Kart, and its impact on the gaming community is undeniable.
- Gran Turismo: Released in 1997, Gran Turismo introduced a sense of driving realism not seen in previous racing titles. With 140 different cars to choose from and various levels of driver’s licenses to unlock events, this game set a new standard for racing games.
- Daytona USA: Released in 1994, Daytona USA is arguably the most recognizable arcade racing game of all time. The twin cabinet complete with a seat, steering wheel, and gas/brake pedals put players in the driver’s seat of a stock car, making it a true racing experience.
- F-Zero: Released in 1991, F-Zero featured what looked like true 3D turns and corners, but the trick was that it was the environment moving around the car rather than the other way around. It’s responsible for an entire subgenre of futuristic racing games that feature unbelievable high speeds.
- Ivan ‘Ironman’ Stewart’s Super Off Road: Released in 1989, this game was a cool addition to any local arcade. The distinct three steering-wheel set up featuring the colors red, yellow, and blue stands the test of time, and the ability to steer and control the gas with the built-in pedal made it a unique gaming experience.
More Iconic Racing Games
- Cruis’n’ USA: Released in 1996, Cruis’n USA was one of the first arcade racing games that captured players’ imagination. The N64 version of the game was not the same as what was available in arcades, but it signified a change in how these games were played.
- R4: Ridge Racer Type 4: Released in 1999, R4: Ridge Racer Type 4 is one of the most stylish racers on the Playstation, with a sleek and perfect feel that makes for an all-time great gaming experience.
- Pole Position: Released in 1982, Pole Position was a game that shouldn’t have existed when it did, but it paved the way for future racing games. Its chase cam, faux-3D presentation, and Formula 1 bent made it a groundbreaking game.
- OutRun: Released in 1986, OutRun is a game where players aren’t racing an opponent other than the clock. The goal is to drive through countryside and desert, toward the next branching pathway checkpoint before running out of time.
- Need for Speed: Most Wanted: Released in 2005, Need for Speed: Most Wanted is considered the cream of the crop and the bestseller of the longstanding street-racing series. The enhanced police pursuit feature made it a unique and exciting gaming experience.
Honorable Mentions
Other notable racing games that didn’t make the top 10 list but are still worth mentioning include Wave Race 64, NASCAR Thunder 2024, Forza Motorsport 4, R.C. Pro-Am, Danny Sullivan’s Indy Heat, and Excitebike. These games have also made significant contributions to the world of racing games and are still enjoyed by gamers today.
Conclusion
The world of racing games has come a long way since the release of the first racing game, and these iconic games have played a significant role in shaping the industry. From the early days of Pole Position to the modern-day NASCAR 25, racing games continue to evolve and provide gamers with an adrenaline-packed experience. Whether you’re a fan of simulation racing or arcade-style games, there’s something for everyone in the world of racing games.
