5 Best Racing Games of 2022, Ranked

The racing game genre is an ever-expanding one. Developers often go the extra mile to deliver action-packed and intense game scenes that top the charts. As 2022 comes to a close, it's only right to pay tribute to the best racing games that came out this year. From grand physics to stunning aesthetic visuals, these games understand what it means to put you in the driver's seat. So hold on to your hats and buckle up as we rank the best racing games of 2022.

5. F1 2022

If you are a racing autophile, you probably know that F1 racing is more than speed. It is a conglomerate involving skills, strategy, and an excellent racing team. With F1 2022, you get to step into Max Verstappen's shoes and cruise the lane. 

Developed by Codemasters, this is the 13th entry into the F1 series, and the game is the exclusive holder of the 2022 license for Formula One and Formula 2 championships. As a result, it features various additions for an adrenaline-packed experience. For starters, you'll experience revised layouts, including the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in the Spanish Grand Prix and the Albert Park Circuit in the Australian Grand Prix. Moreover, you'll experience new challenging tracks, including the Algarve International Circuit, the Miami International Autodrome, and the Shanghai International Circuit in the Chinese Grand Prix. 

There is more to F1 2022 than the circuits. The impressive roster of redesigned cars will have you yearning for more. Also, the split-screen player mode lets you keep track of your pace and opponents for an intriguing finish. So, do you have what it takes to be a Formula 1 driver? There's only one way to find out. 

Available on: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, and PC.

4. Forza Horizon 5

In Forza Horizon 5, you can get lost in the world's beautiful scenery and watch as rocks fly off your car's tires. As the fifth title and 12th installment to the Forza franchise, Forza Horizon 5 is a bucket load of excitement, thrill, and, not to forget, speed. 

Developed by Playground Games, the racing game takes place in an open environment in a fictional version of Mexico City. The game's map is the most diverse in the series and is reportedly bigger than the map on Forza Horizon 4. Furthermore, the game allows you to create custom events that are distinct from the developers' default events.

Undeniably, Playground Games raised the bar with this game. The upgrades contribute immensely to the surreal effect when playing the game. An outstanding lineup of 500 fast cars, new smoke and dust effects, and improved lighting place you right in the middle of the action. Also, the game introduces Horizon Arcade, where players can enjoy a wide range of multiplayer games. Between the map and cars, it's challenging to pinpoint which is best. Across the board, Forza Horizon 5 tops the critical acclamation; therefore, it graciously earns its position on our list.

Available on: Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, PC, AND Xbox Cloud Gaming.

3. Assetto Corsa Competizione

Assetto Corsa Competizione is an impressive evolution from its predecessor, Asseoto Corsa. The simulation racing game gives motorsport racing a literal run for its money with realistic simulation, impressive graphics, and visual effects. It primarily focuses on GT3 and GT4 racing cars and gives you a real sense of the GT3 championship.

Developed by Kunos Simulazioni, the game lets you compete with other renowned racers or face it off with an AI driver. The game has plenty to offer, from custom races and championships to multiplayer modes and practice sessions to improve your racing skills before you hit the track. 

As a licensed simulation of the 2018 and 2019 Blancpain GT Series, expect nothing less than racing in high-end, high-speed vehicles. The stakes will always be high for Bentleys, Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Bentleys, and Jaguars.

Available on: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, and PC.

2. Need for Speed: Unbound

The Need for Speed franchise has set the pace for street racing for ages. As the pope is to the Roman Catholic Church, so is Need for Speed to street racing. It's sufficient to say that it is the holy grail of road racing. The game goes all in with impressive visuals and a realistic environment. However, the characters still appear to be stuck in a retro-arcade game.

Developed by Criterion Games, Need for Speed: Unbound is the 25th installment of the Need for Speed series. The game takes place in the fictional revamp of Lakeshore City and features an open-world environment. An outstanding feature of the game is the “heat system” that makes a return from Need for Speed Heat. Zoom past police cars and beat them in unsolicited races to avoid getting busted. 

The game does not reinvent the wheel but makes it undoubtedly fun and addictive. With similar gameplay to its predecessors, players now have wide customization options. You can now make your car as fast as possible by varying the body kits, adding a splitter, or racing without a rear or front bumper.

Available on: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, and PC.

1. Gran Turismo 7

Topping our list of the best racing games of 2022 is Polyphony's sim racing video game, which is the 8th installment in the Gran Turismo series. Nostalgia is not a stranger to this game since it features an impressive roster of classic cars. Moreso, it is a welcoming game for newbies. You don't have to worry about the frustration of learning the controls or developing racing skills. The game provides plenty of focused tracks and events to get you racing first to the finish line.

Moreover, the impressive single-player campaign makes a return to Gran Turismo 7. You'll also experience special events and have access to the tuning parts shop, used car dealerships, and the customary racing tracks. The game also features weather effects and dynamic time for a surreal effect.

If you play on Playstation 5, the game leverages the console's specs, such as the Tempest Engine, processing power, and raytracing hardware, for impressive 3D spatial audio, exemplary haptic feedback, and adaptive triggers. With this and more, Gran Turismo 7 provides you with the most realistic driving experience. 

Available on: PlayStation 5, and PlayStation 4.

And there you have it: the five best racing games of 2022, ranked. Do you agree with our rankings? Are there any more racing games we should know about? Let us know down in the comments or over on our socials here.