Best VR racing games 2024

Now that we're in 2024, the selection of virtual reality games available is at an all-time high. The level of detail and immersion on offer from some of the top titles out there is breathtaking, and this all rings true for racing as well. However, this makes finding the best VR racing games overwhelming at times. That's why we've put together this guide to run you through all the best options so you don't have to research yourself.

To make our picks, we've predominately focused on the gameplay, although we've also factored in compatibility with some of the best VR headsets for racing, like the Meta Quest 3, along with the platforms they're playable on. Certain games, like Gran Turismo 7, make the cut because of this, as it's one of the only ones compatible with PSVR 2. Of course, its great gameplay helps, but having PSVR 2 support is a huge boon in the racing VR realm.

So, if you've already got one of the best racing wheels on the market and a top VR headset to go with it, why not give one, two, or all of these video games a try if you're a sim racing fan?

Best VR racing games

1. Gran Turismo 7 - best console game in VR
2. Automobilista 2 - an excellent racing title for PC
3. DiRT Rally 2.0 - arguably the greatest VR racing game, at least for rallying
4. F1 23 - a great option for Formula One fans
5. Assetto Corsa Competizione - best alternative to all the above

Credit: Polyphony Digital

Gran Turismo 7

Best console racing game in VR

Following the 1.29 update in 2023, Gran Turismo 7 became available to play on the PSVR 2 system, breathing a whole new lease of life in this excellent racing title.

When teamed with one of the best force feedback or direct drive wheels, Gran Turismo 7 is an absolute gem to play in virtual reality, allowing you to quite literally sit in the driver's seat of more than 450 vehicles and race until your heart's content.

In terms of the gameplay, you're in for a treat. It offers some of the most realistic racing visuals on console across over 90 track routes. It also has dynamic weather conditions, and it's got a whole host of customization options to explore in the Tuning Shop. If you don't believe how good it is, read our review to find out more.

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Credit: Reiza Studios

Automobilista 2

Best PC racing game in VR

Automobilista 2 is another game that puts you right in the center of all the on-track thrills and spills, making it a particularly great title to play in VR through a PC. We say that as it's only available on PC, so just bear in mind you're going to need one of the best gaming PCs or laptops along with a headset to play it.

If you happen to have all of that already, then Automobilista 2 won't disappoint you. At its core, it's a comprehensive simulation of Brazilian motorsports, incorporating a ton of major Brazilian racing series, race tracks, and manufacturers. However, a lot of this is customizable, and there are a bunch of legendary vehicles to drive like the mighty Group C Porsche 962c.

You can even drive karts if you want to, and with each race, you'll have to contend with dynamic weather and track conditions, with varying wind speeds and temperatures creating a unique driving experience every time.

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Credit: Codemasters

DiRT Rally 2.0

Best rally racing game in VR

DiRT Rally 2.0 tends to be at the top of most people's lists of the best VR racing games; however, be warned, this game is unforgiving and challenging, which we guess is realistic to what it's like being in a rally car in real life.

When you're in VR, this game is a true test of your instincts and driving ability. You tackle real-life off-road environments in New Zealand, Argentina, Spain, Poland, Australia, and the USA, with your only "help", if you could call it that, being your co-driver. It's seriously tough, and will likely take some getting used to. Once you crack it though, you'll get hours and hours of enjoyment out of it.

The game boasts 50 historic and modern-day rally cars to drive across the six real rally locations, as mentioned, and you can take part in your own solo Career Campaign or jump online and race against real-life rivals. There's plenty to do and plenty of fun to be had racing in VR playing DiRT Rally 2.0.

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Credit: EA

F1 23

Best F1 racing game in VR

If you're a Formula One fan, there's really only one dedicated F1 game that fits the bill as the best VR racing game going - F1 23 (although F1 24 is just around the corner and is on sale while it's available to pre-order).

Now, the virtual reality is arguably not quite as well optimized as some of the other games on this list. However, F1 22 was the first F1 game to integrate VR, and F1 23 vastly improved on it. Therefore, with the right setup behind it, you can enjoy raw speeds that are unmatched in other racing titles.

In terms of game modes, there are of course solo and multiplayer races to battle in, plus F1 World, which is kind of like Ultimate Team, Career Mode, My Team, and the story-driven Braking Point 2. There's plenty to keep you entertained, especially if you play in VR.

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Credit: Kunos Simulazioni

Assetto Corsa Competizione

Best alternative racing game in VR

Assetto Corsa Competizione is essentially the equivalent of an F1 or rally game for GT3 vehicles. As such, you can race in Sprint, Endurance, and even Spa 24 Hours races behind the wheel of Ferraris, Lamborghinis, McLarens, and more, all while enjoying the pure accuracy this game offers in VR.

Realism is the selling point of Assetto Corsa games, as they're designed to faithfully recreate the performance and the driving experience of real GT cars. Tyre grip, aerodynamics, engine parameters, and so much more all influence your car's balance, and any damage you incur on the track will likely cause havoc to your driving.

Graphically, the game boasts the use of Unreal Engine 4, so offers a realistic representation of scenarios, car materials, and weather conditions. And, when it comes to game modes, you have the option of Career, Championship, and Free Play, or you can take your skills online and play multiplayer if you wish.

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