With the Switch 2 being a relatively new console on the market, there isn’t an abundance of racing games on the platform yet. That seems a bit silly to say when Mario Kart World was its biggest launch title, but there is a genuine lack of next-gen racing titles on the Switch 2 for now. Still, there are a handful of games that can scratch your itch for burning rubber while on the go.
Possibly the best part about racing games on the Switch 2 is that they all look and run well. The 60FPS experience is finally a reality for Nintendo fans, and the overall smoothness is a major benefit in racing games. Here’s a look at the best racing games the Switch 2 currently has to offer.
Mario Kart World
To the surprise of absolutely no one, Mario Kart World is the best racing game on the Switch 2. Usually, it is pretty hard for studios to keep using the same formula over and over again and still get good results. Fortunately, Nintendo is a master at this craft, and they always pour enough creativity into their first-party games so that they achieve critical acclaim.
Mario Kart World features new tracks, an open world to explore, fantastic multiplayer support, and new mechanics such as grinding on rails and charged jumps. Simply put, it’s pure unadulterated fun. The Knockout Tour is the best feature of this game, a connected race of rallies across different locations with six checkpoints. If you don’t place high enough when you reach these checkpoints, you’re knocked out. This game is an essential must-have for every Switch 2 owner, even if you don’t like racing games.
Fast Fusion
A sequel to Fast RMX, Fast Fusion is one of the more enjoyable launch titles on the Switch 2. The game features new fusion mechanics, which allow you to fuse ship parts and create new vehicles with ridiculous stats. Yes, instead of racing cars, you’re flying space ships like you would in F-Zero. The game feels incredibly fast, and the tight lanes you have to maneuver within give you an unexplainable adrenaline rush.
The game can be played at up to 4K with 60FPS when docked, and the sound design is just as brilliant as the visuals. Other features include 4-player split-screen support, game sharing, deep ship customization, and a Hero mode. In this mode, the boost meter acts as a health bar, similar to F-Zero. For $15, you won’t find a more enjoyable racing game on the Switch 2.
Arcade Archives 2: Ridge Racer
Ridge Racer is an undeniable classic. This franchise has an iconic legacy, dating all the way back to the arcade machines of the ‘90s. Thanks to the Hamster Corporation’s Arcade Archive 2 series, the original Ridge Racer is now playable on the Switch 2. There are a lot of things you can say against this game: it’s dated, not as fluid as modern racers, and a bit short. However, its good old arcade charm is hard to deny.
If you’re a sucker for retro games and find yourself giving in to nostalgia, this is a game that will lure you in. The gameplay is a pure arcade experience, centered around its satisfying drifting mechanic. It’s the definitive way to play the original Ridge Racer, as it features authentic visuals and music from the arcade machine. It’s reasonably priced, so definitely worth checking out for fans of old-school racing.
Horizon Chase 2
Just like its predecessor, Horizon Chase Turbo, this indie gem is not talked about enough. Originally a Nintendo Switch game, Horizon Chase 2 runs on the Switch 2 thanks to backwards compatibility. As a result, it looks and runs much better on the new console. It’s a modern reimagining of the classic arcade racing spirit, complete with vibrant environments, dynamic weather, and a rocking soundtrack.
Extensive car customisation options will make you fall in love with this game. This is a major focus of the World Tour mode, where you collect blue coins to upgrade your vehicles. You can use these coins on paint, decals, rims, and unlock upgrades as you progress further. Like most arcade racers, this one also features split-screen support so you can enjoy it with a group of friends.
Rally Arcade Classics
This game is a modern indie homage to classic arcade-style rally racing. Originally, this is another Switch game that works via backward compatibility on the Switch 2. You get sharper visuals, improved performance, and a more seamless overall experience thanks to this upgrade. The charming pixelated aesthetic perfectly captures a nostalgic arcade atmosphere, but it never looks dated.
Unlike a lot of track-based racers, this rally game is a race against the clock on demanding point-to-point stages. Pushing for a faster time always means you’re flirting with disaster, and that’s the very nature of rally that this game captures perfectly. Solo players will have a fun time with leaderboards, unlockable cars, and multiple modes that keep you coming back. Unfortunately, there’s no split-screen support with this one, but the competitive leaderboards are enough of a draw to keep you hooked.
