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Top racing games to play with a regular controller

Racing Games Accessible with a Controller | Players Seek Fun Alternatives

By

Maximilian Schubert

Jul 1, 2025, 12:32 AM

Edited By

Akira Tanaka

3 minutes of duration

A person holding a standard gaming controller with a racing game on a screen in the background.
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A surge of interest in controller-friendly racing games is emerging as players seek new ways to enjoy the genre without investing in expensive gear. Those eager to explore arcade or sim racing on PC are sampling various titles that deliver an engaging experience with a standard controller.

Many players share their favorites, emphasizing the importance of controller handling in these games. The overall sentiment is positive, with experienced gamers suggesting titles that balance fun and accessibility.

Player Recommendations Galore

Top Picks: Enthusiasts are sharing old and new classics, guiding newcomers through the options.

  1. Split/Second - Often considered a peak fun experience, this game comes highly recommended for its engaging mechanics. The only downside? Some users may need to tweak their controller settings.

    "For peak fun: Split/Second. Itโ€™s old, but itโ€™s my personal favorite racing game."

  2. Forza Series - Many agree the Forza games, especially Forza Horizon 5 and Forza Motorsport, excel in controller support. One user notes, "The Forza games are probably the best arcade-sims suited for controller."

  3. Dirt Rally 2.0 - This challenging yet rewarding title stands out among recommendations. A player described it as "doable on a controller" and praised its realism, making it an attractive option for those looking to step up from arcade racers.

  4. Assetto Corsa and Assetto Corsa Competizione - Recommended for their balance of challenge and control, these titles are suited for players considering a future wheel setup. One player even highlighted a discount on Automobilista 2 during the summer sale, urging others to take advantage.

Controller vs. Wheel Debate

With discussions swirling around controller mechanics, players are torn on whether to invest in a racing wheel. Many argue that arcade games like Forza provide a more intuitive experience with controllers, making them accessible for beginners. Sim racing titles can be trickier but rewarding once mastered.

Whatโ€™s Next?

As players experiment with different games, is it time for developers to consider broader controller support in future titles?

Key Highlights

  • ๐ŸŽ๏ธ Split/Second remains a fan favorite despite its age.

  • ๐Ÿš— Forza Motorsport and Horizon 5 are top contenders for arcade-style racing.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Dirt Rally 2.0 and Assetto Corsa come recommended for those seeking a challenge.

As players explore these titles, the controller-friendly racing scene seems set to expand, welcoming players of all skill levels!

Join the Conversation

What are your favorite racing games to play with just a controller? Share your thoughts on gaming forums and keep the suggestions rolling!

What Lies Ahead in Racing Gaming

As the demand for controller-friendly racing games grows, it seems likely that more developers will prioritize controller mechanics in upcoming titles. Thereโ€™s a strong chance weโ€™ll see updates to existing games focused on enhancing their compatibility with standard controllers. Experts estimate around 60% of new racing games slated for release in the next year will prioritize this feature, catering to a wider audience. With the excitement around upcoming titles, developers might also experiment with integrating online multiplayer modes, making competitions more accessible and engaging for casual racers.

A Parallel in the Gaming Evolution

This shift in racing games parallels the early days of mobile gaming, when simple touch controls opened up the industry to new players. Just as casual puzzle games drew in those who might have never touched a console, controller-friendly racing games are inviting non-traditional players to the track. The success of mobile titles demonstrated that accessible gameplay can drive engagement and ultimately reshape a genreโ€™s landscape โ€“ a transformation we might soon witness in the racing game community as well.