5 Best Racing Games on Xbox Game Pass (April 2024)

Everyone loves a good racing game, right? They're about the rush you feel as you zoom past other cars, the fun of hearing engines go “vroom!”, and those cool moments when you dodge obstacles just in the nick of time. Over the years, racing games have gone from simple, flat tracks in arcades to big, beautiful 3D worlds in our living rooms. The Xbox Game Pass is like a big toy box for anyone who loves racing games. But with different options to pick from, which ones are the best? Let's dive in and check out the five best racing games on Xbox Game Pass that you should definitely try out!

5. LEGO 2K Drive

LEGO 2K Drive welcomes players to the expansive and colorful world of Bricklandia, where a vast open-world awaits filled with driving adventures. This game offers the ultimate LEGO driving experience, allowing players to race across diverse terrains, from smooth racetracks to rugged off-road paths and even through open waters. The freedom to explore this vibrant world comes with the excitement of building and customizing your own vehicles. Players can start their engines at any point and zoom across the varied landscapes of this playful universe.

The heart of LEGO 2K Drive lies in its engaging Story mode, where players rise from being a rookie to a celebrated racing champion. Compete in thrilling races, tackle fun-filled Cup Series tournaments, or indulge in quirky minigames that challenge your skills in drifting, boosting, and jumping. Victory in these events brings you closer to the ultimate prize: the prestigious Sky Trophy. The game ensures that the thrill of competition is balanced with the joy of participation, offering various levels of challenges that cater to all skills.

In addition, one of the most exciting features of LEGO 2K Drive is the ability to unleash your creativity in the Garage, where building your dream vehicle becomes a reality. And with simple tools, players snap LEGO bricks together to construct new cars or boats, or modify existing ones to better suit their style or the demands of the next race.

4. Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 – Turbocharged

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 – Turbocharged brings the excitement to a new level with over 130 vehicles. You can choose from classic Hot Wheels cars, monster trucks, motorbikes, and ATVs. Each vehicle type offers a unique way to tackle the tracks, letting you plan how to race based on the car and the course conditions. The game features a new system where vehicles fall into categories, and you can enhance their abilities through upgrades. This means your favorite car can get even better as you play, helping you zoom past the competition.

Moreover, the races take place in five eye-catching settings, including a suburban backyard and a Wild West mini-golf course. These places aren't just fun to look at; they also affect how your car handles. You'll need to master different surfaces like grass and sand that change the way your vehicle drives. The game also adds new moves like the Lateral Dash and Double Jump, which you can use to dodge opponents or find new paths through the tracks.

Beyond racing, Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 – Turbocharged lets you unleash your creativity. The game brings back its popular track editor with even more features, allowing you to build complex and exciting tracks to share online. There's also an improved Livery Editor with tools like a Stickers Editor, where you can design custom looks for your cars.

3. GRID Legends

GRID Legends is another standout racing game on Xbox Game Pass, offering thrilling motorsport adventures around the world. Players have the chance to design their dream motorsport events, engaging in races that include both legendary and contemporary cars. The excitement mounts as drivers push their vehicles to the limits through bustling city scenes like London. With a variety of event types such as elimination and boost races, the game ensures every lap is packed with high-speed action.

Moreover, up to 21 friends can join in live multiplayer races, thanks to the support for cross-platform play. This feature allows competitors on different systems to race against each other, making it easy to challenge friends, celebrate victories, or plan revenge after a loss. The game fosters a competitive atmosphere, and hence, encourages players to keep coming back to prove their skills on the track.

Central to GRID Legends is the virtual production story mode, Driven to Glory, which adds depth to the game by weaving narrative elements into the racing experience. Additionally, the Race Creator tool allows players to craft custom events, offering the freedom to set up races between different vehicle types. All in all, GRID Legends combines diverse gameplay options with engaging storytelling, making it a captivating choice for Xbox Game Pass subscribers looking to experience the thrill of motorsport.

2. Need for Speed Unbound

Need for Speed Unbound, part of the esteemed Need for Speed series, stands out with its unique approach to street racing. This game lets you experience the thrill of rising through the ranks in the competitive street racing scene of Lakeshore. Begin at the bottom with basic races and build your reputation by entering weekly qualifiers to compete in The Grand, the most coveted race in the city. Additionally, the game challenges you to race against fierce competitors and outsmart relentless police pursuits, adding a layer of excitement and danger to every race.

Furthermore, personalization and style take center stage. Players customize their cars with precision tuning and unique body kits, ensuring that every vehicle is fast and visually stunning. The introduction of new cars like the Audi RS 6 Avant and the legendary MINI John Cooper Works Countryman adds depth to the garage options. Furthermore, the game’s aesthetic is enhanced by graffiti-inspired visuals and a vibrant global soundtrack that features artists like A$AP Rocky. These elements combine to create a racing experience that is as much about performance as it is about expression.

1. DiRT Rally 2.0

The final game on our list of best racing games on Xbox Game Pass is DiRT Rally 2.0. This game provides a true off-road racing experience with challenging tracks worldwide. Over 50 powerful vehicles, including the VW Polo GTI R5 and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, are available for you to drive. These cars can handle the rough terrains of locations like New Zealand, Argentina, and Spain. Also, the tracks change over time, making every race a unique challenge.

DiRT Rally 2.0 also focuses on strategy and skill. You must choose the right tyres and adjust your car for different tracks and weather conditions. You also get to manage your racing team, hiring staff and upgrading your garage to prepare your vehicles for various competitions. This includes races in the official FIA World Rallycross Championship at famous circuits like Barcelona and Silverstone. Additionally, the game offers a competitive online mode where you can race against others in daily, weekly, and monthly challenges. Each race is a chance to test your skills and move up on global leaderboards.

So, do you agree with our picks for the best racing games on Xbox Game Pass? Are there any other titles you believe should have made the list? Let us know your thoughts on our socials here.