Finding a racing game today that offers an engaging story or a detailed career mode beyond the familiar Need for Speed (NFS) series is becoming increasingly uncommon. As a long-time fan of racing games, I have fond memories of owning a variety of Hot Wheels models and customizing my virtual cars, alongside a deep appreciation for the Fast and Furious franchise. My passion for racing games was largely cultivated on the PlayStation 2, leading me to compile a list of my favorite racing titles featuring distinct story modes, with a few notable exceptions to diversify the mix.
10 Blur
The Grown-Up’s Mario Kart
Blur stands out as one of the finest arcade racing games, ingeniously blending traditional racing with power-ups reminiscent of Mario Kart. Despite being somewhat of a hidden gem, my friends and I spent countless hours enjoying this title during our high school days. The game features a conventional career mode that is revamped with enticing challenges and boss battles, making it a worthy contender on this list. While it may not boast an extensive narrative, it succeeds in delivering an enjoyable and accessible experience for players.
9 Midnight Club 3: Dub Edition
One of Rockstar’s Forgotten IPs
Midnight Club 3 holds a special place in my heart, especially with its outstanding Hip Hop soundtrack that rivals NFS Underground 2. The primary storyline revolves around battles against various street racers and their notorious gangs as players build their reputation through various events. While the plot may echo many iconic street racing games, it predates Ubisoft’s Crew series, offering an exciting variety of vehicles from sports bikes to heavily armored Hummers, ensuring a fresh racing experience. By the end, players strive for the coveted title of U.S. champion.
8 Driver: San Francisco
High-Octane and Adrenaline-Fueled
Driver: San Francisco breaks away from the traditional racing mold, yet maintains an exhilarating racing feel thanks to its engaging narrative. This title serves as a sequel to Driver 3, placing you in the shoes of FBI Agent John Tanner as he hunts down the criminal mastermind, Charles Jericho. The story manages to intertwine intense action with humor, balancing gritty crime drama with lighter moments. Its unique ‘Shift’ mechanic, allowing players to switch cars mid-mission, adds an innovative touch to the gameplay.
7 Need for Speed: The Run
One Last Ride from Black Box
As Black Box’s final title before its closure, NFS: The Run combines traditional racing mechanics with a strong narrative. Players take on the role of notorious street racer Jake Rourke, who must evade the mob while navigating various cross-country races to clear his debts. Although some aspects may feel overly scripted, the game maintains a solid balance between thrilling action and engaging storytelling. Jake’s on-foot segments may feel clunky at times, but the entertaining dialogue and B-movie vibes provide a unique charm.
6 F1 2021
A Professional in the Making
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Developer |
Codemasters |
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Publisher |
EA Sports |
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Platform |
PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
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Release Date |
July 16, 2021 |
F1 2021 offers players an opportunity to immerse themselves in the glamorous world of formula racing through its engaging ‘Braking Point’ mode. The narrative follows Aiden Jackson, a driver ascending from the junior leagues to the heights of championship racing, facing the realities of competition and intense rivalry. The character-driven storyline enhances the overall experience, revealing the emotional stakes involved in Aiden’s journey.
5 Pixar’s Cars
Nostalgia Overload
As both a racing and Disney enthusiast, Pixar’s Cars has always held a special spot in my gaming repertoire. This title, a loose adaptation of the animated movie, allows players to take control of Lightning McQueen in a fresh narrative as he competes for the prestigious Piston Cup. Its charm lies in the delightful interactions between characters and a variety of race events including mini-games spread across expansive open-world maps, offering a light-hearted yet fulfilling gaming experience.
4 Racing Lagoon
A Criminally Underrated Gem
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Developer |
Squaresoft |
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Publisher |
Squaresoft |
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Platform |
PlayStation 1 |
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Release Date |
June 10, 1999 (Japan) |
If Racing Lagoon is new to you, you’re not alone. In a time when Squaresoft (now Square Enix) was producing iconic titles, this game carved out a distinctive identity with its RPG racing elements. The story captures the essence of Japan’s street racing culture in the ’90s, allowing players to embody Sho Akasaki of the Bay Racing League. The narrative involves unraveling Sho’s past and the urban legend of the “Fastest Legend,”ensuring an engaging experience throughout. Although it lacked an official localization, a fan patch now makes this quirky adventure accessible to players worldwide.
3 Need for Speed: Heat
A Modern NFS Done Right
NFS Heat marks a triumphant return to the franchise’s roots, offering a blend of street racing and exhilarating police chases. Set in the vibrant Palm City, the main storyline revolves around the SpeedHunters’ Showdown Exhibition, where players navigate alliances with key characters, including the Rivera siblings and the corrupt Lt. Frank Mercer. As the suspense unfolds, intriguing twists elevate the narrative, complemented by exceptional voice acting. The compelling day-night cycle enhances engagement as players earn reputation points and currency to unlock bigger races.
2 Need for Speed: Carbon
It All Gets Settled in the Canyon
While not as commercially iconic as some of its contemporaries, NFS: Carbon remains a cherished title filled with nostalgic moments. The game’s characters and backdrop create a compelling nighttime atmosphere, though its narrative can feel succinct. Players gradually uncover the enigmatic Darius’ betrayal in a story that interweaves antagonistic crews within the controlled landscape of Palmont City. The inclusion of allies adds further depth, bringing a dash of comedy and context to the noir-infused tale.
1 Need for Speed: Most Wanted (2005)
Eradicate the Blacklist
Undoubtedly, the original NFS Most Wanted remains a gaming icon, revered by fans long after its initial release. Black Box’s final masterpiece features legendary soundtracks, immersive racing mechanics, and the thrill of police pursuits that elevate the experience. Its compelling narrative leads players through the challenges posed by the infamous Blacklist racers, culminating in the quest to recover the coveted BMW M3 GTR from Razor. This title blends humor and intensity in the spirit of early Fast and Furious films, making it a defining experience of my childhood and a quintessential part of the 2000s gaming landscape.
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