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Driving sim games have been a favourite among racing fans for a long time. Over the last few decades, these simulations have brought enthusiasts closer to the action than ever.
Technology has led to hyper-realistic physics as well as laser-scanned racetracks, which blur the lines between simulations and real racing in ways previously not thought possible. It’s not just something for the amateurs or fans either.
Race drivers themselves use simulators to hone their skills as they look to get an edge on the competition with big money prizes in the sport at stake. So, whether you’re a pro racer, an enthusiastic amateur or even a motorsport fan looking to get the edge when it comes to betting on the sport, what are the most realistic driving games to get you to the heart of the action?
iRacing
There are very few titles that can compare with iRacing when it comes to realism in a driving simulation game. A subscription-based simulator, iRacing is a favourite for both professional drivers and esports competitors. Every single track featured in the game, from Scotland’s Knockhill Racing Circuit to Pennsylvania’s Lincoln Speedway, is laser-scanned to ensure absolute accuracy. Tyre physics is also being constantly updated to match real-world conditions.
iRacing’s undoubted standout feature is its online ranking system. This matches players with similar skill levels to play against one another, making competition fair and exciting. Given the platform’s competitive nature, it’s a key focal point for racing fans who want to analyze driver performance in great detail. Given that these simulations often align with real-life racing events, they can provide great insight for those who like to place a wager on races in addition to traditional means, such as reading a trusted guide to betting on motorsports or relying on previous races where weather conditions might be very different. It’s always a good idea to look a geographically specific betting guides as conditions could change massively, for example a race taking place in Pennsylvania will heavily differ from one taking place in Scotland.
If it’s a very immersive racing simulation experience you’re after with highly competitive and lifelike gameplay, then iRacing could be the perfect choice for you.
Assetto Corsa Competizione
Assetto Corsa Competizione is the official GT World Challenge video game, which offers an immersive and realistic experience for fans of GT racing.
Laser-scanned tracks and an extensive range of cars give players great variety, but the real beauty of the game is in its dynamic weather system. Just like the pros, players need to adapt their styles to different weather conditions, as the physics of races can change in an instant. Unpredictability is something race fans crave, and with weather conditions often at the heart of this, its addition is a real winner for players.
The GT cars featured in the game provide players with unique handling characteristics mimicking real life. With 24-hour races available, this is a game for those looking to master endurance racing while enjoying the strategy associated with motorsports.
rFactor 2
A major player in the racing simulation world, rFactor 2 is designed to allow racing teams to modify it for driver training and car development. One of its key selling points for serious racing teams is its detailed car behaviour and focus on what tyres can do on the cars and on the track itself.
Using AI and real-time track evolution, rFactor 2 simulates how rubber builds up on a track during a race and affects grip. Tire performance and how drivers react to changes in the track are crucial for teams to understand and react to ahead of a race. It’s also vital for those looking to gain a betting advantage, as teams known for their responsiveness to track conditions might have the edge over the competition.
Gran Turismo 7
Gran Turismo 7 will be a familiar title to more casual gaming fans. Its balance between realism and accessibility makes it one of the most popular racing games on the market. The game contains impressive detail when it comes to tracks, and players have the choice of over 400 unique cars that all handle differently.
GT7 also features sports mode, which allows players to flex their competitive muscles in online races. Dynamic time and weather changes also bring drama to races as the physics of the tracks and cars can be affected massively, mirroring real-world races.
Perhaps GT7 isn’t a racing simulator with the same level of detail as others on the list, so it might not be one for professional racing teams and drivers. However, it has sold hundreds of thousands of copies globally despite initial criticism related to the prevalence of microtransactions in the game.
Automobilista 2
Racing fans looking for something a bit different will enjoy Automobilista 2 (AMS2). The range of racing options included in the game is more diverse than many, with Formula 1, stock cars and even kart racing included.
The game’s physics are based on those developed by the highly regarded Madness Engine, which powered the popular Project CARS series. There is also a focus on South American motorsports, which offers players something different and not commonly found in other racing simulators.
Due to the variety involved and the realism of the gameplay, AMS2 is proving to be popular with racing simulation fans as well as more casual followers of motorsports.
The verdict
Determining which racing simulation game is right for you depends entirely on what you want from the experience. Each game has its own strengths and provides valuable tools for motorsports fans who want to understand the sport on a deeper level, whether just for their own enjoyment or to gain an edge over the bookies.
Players looking for the best in online competition and getting involved in esports will enjoy iRacing; those who are fans of GT racing should stick with Assetto Corsa Competizione, while race teams and players who need customization are best sticking with rFactor 2. Gran Turismo 7 is likely to be enjoyed by more casual gamers, while those looking for something a bit different will enjoy the range of tracks available on Automobilista 2.
Whether you’re a casual player or a serious motorsports enthusiast, these driving simulators offer an unparalleled racing experience, making them essential for anyone interested in high-level competition and motorsports analysis.
