Arcade racing games aren’t about all the seriousness with 1-1 driving dynamics from real motorsports; they’re more about fun and giggles rather than realism. Whether it’s pure speed, crazy sky-floating tracks, or wild drifting mechanics, arcade racers fill the void by blending creative fun gameplay with pick-up-and-play ease that keeps you coming back for more.
From ’90s nostalgic arcade racers to full-pace demolition derby and fun party racers, there’s plenty of titles for anyone chasing that classic arcade racing experience.
Dive into the world of arcade racing with me as I rank the best PS5 arcade racing games that offer the most enjoyable gameplay, along with a pure adrenaline rush.
7. Rocket Racing (2023)
Rocket Racing is a game within Fortnite that brings an adrenaline-fueled arcade racing experience on PS5, developed by the team behind Rocket League. It drops you into futuristic tracks where wall-driving, ceiling-gripping, and gravity-defying stunts are a must.
It’s one of those games that’s as much about the rhythm and creativity as top speed. The levels feature sharp turns, loops, and even vertical sections that feel more like high-speed acrobatics than regular racing.
The controls are relatively straightforward, though, and the visuals are amazing, neon-soaked with a sci-fi feel that matches its energy-boosting pace. You can race with up to 12 players in multiplayer. Let me warn you, the races do get pretty intense and chaotic.
The game also offers cross-platform support and regular content updates. Overall, a fun and unique take on the arcade racing genre.
6. DiRT 5 (2020)
DiRT 5 takes the elements of rally racing and amps them up into pure arcade racing chaos. Rather than realistic handling, it’s built more around pure speed, quick slides, and most importantly, enjoyable gameplay.
The track variety is vast, with around 70 stage routes and nearly 10 global locations, each having different terrains and weather, which makes every race feel fresh. The career mode is festival-themed and offers a playful vibe full of vibrant events and engaging commentary.
Adding on, the multiplayer support with up to four-player split-screen is perfect for couch party battles. The game shines best on PS5, with smooth 120fps performance and haptic feedback, which adds to the immersion.
5. Horizon Chase 2 (2024)
Horizon Chase 2 depicts the classic old-school arcade racing games, proving that ‘90s arcade racers’ style possesses timeless playability. Vibrant, colorful tracks from icy peaks to tropical beaches are just the cherry on top.
Chase 2 takes you on a refreshing journey without worrying about overthinking controls; the handling is responsive and rather easy, rewarding quick reflexes and smooth cornering.
Supporting multiplayer and split-screen for up to four players, it’s the perfect jump-in-and-play title that remains one of the best party racing games, with a minimal learning curve.
4. Need For Speed: Unbound (2022)
Need For Speed: Unbound gives you those street racing and cop-chasing thrills, all wrapped up in a graffiti-themed, flashy art style that makes it a standout among other racers on PS5. The car collection is extensive, with the game having a bunch of customizations ranging from under-the-hood performance tweaks to modifying exterior looks.
Yeah, the AI isn’t the best, and the multiplayer lacks a bit; however, the core driving is pretty enjoyable, which makes the game worthwhile.
If you’re after an arcade racer set in the midnight street-racing scene, Need For Speed: Unbound remains the best pick.
3. Wreckfest (2017)
Wreckfest is where racing meets total destruction, and is downright chaotic. It’s the ultimate arcade racer offering demolition derby action on PS5. The body damage system makes every wreck, dent, and rollover feel realistic, which transforms every race into a battle of speed and survival; heck, it’s fun.
Featuring a bunch of wild tracks and arenas built purely for chaos, the game supports up to 24-player multiplayer for intense battles. Adding to that, the performance and optimizations are much better on the PS5, making it a smooth, destructively fun game.
Grind through career mode or have a blast with friends online (literally), Wreckfest is arcade racing at its wildest, so don’t be the one missing out on all the action.
2. Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged (2023)
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged picks up the fun toy car racing and amps it up for PS5. It features nearly 130 vehicles, including ATVs and motorbikes, with a variety of tracks that range from backyards to skateparks and sci-fi playgrounds. It almost takes me back to my childhood, when Hot Wheels and chaos were all I wanted – pure nostalgia right here.
The driving is fun and feels responsive, rewarding, smooth, drifting, and offers quick shortcuts. What’s even more fun is the track editor, which lets you build your own tracks. Throw in online multiplayer, campaign story mode, and split-screen support, and you’ve got yourself one of the most enjoyable arcade racers on PS5.
1. Forza Horizon 5 (2021)
Nothing beats Forza Horizon 5 when it comes to ultimate arcade racing. It features nearly 900 cars with vibrant locations to race those cars in. Being an open-world game, it lets you explore scenic beaches, dense jungles, and busy cities, along with various other locations spread across the map. It’s all part of a fictional recreation of Mexico, which Forza did a great job on.
The game offers stunning graphics, optimized performance, and a ton of settings to play with, including driving assists. Moreover, the regular festival events, speed traps, and stunt challenges keep you engaged. Whether you’re solo or online with friends, you’re always gonna have a blast playing it.
Whether you’re after laid-back cruising or arcade racing thrills, Forza Horizon 5 delivers and is definitely worth a play.
