Top 5 Racing Games You Should Play Before the New Need for Speed Is Out

Not to be confused for the older Need for Speed games bearing the Hot Pursuit moniker, this 2010 game goes back to the franchise's roots. There's no ham-fisted narrative that comes in the way of gameplay, nor an attempt at simulation.

Instead you have to drive and drive fast. Developed by Criterion Games (which is also responsible for Burnout Paradise) this was perhaps the best in the series in recent memory. No small wonder then that current custodian of the franchise, Ghost Games, consists of ex-Criterion employees.

3. Driveclub

With it's launch day issues smoothened out, Driveclub is the go-to racing game for many a PlayStation 4 owner and who can blame them?

From gorgeous weather effects to gameplay that's a heady combination of arcade and sim-styled driving, it's one of the must have games for Sony's new black box though the free PlayStation Plus edition of the game that was promised Sony is yet to come.

4. Forza Horizon 2

This Xbox One and Xbox 360 exclusive racing game puts you in the drivers seat of plenty dream vehicles, ranging from the Lamborghini Huracán LP610-4 to Bugatti Veyron Super Sport.

They're a treat to handle as you drive across the picturesque European countryside. The game is very easy on the eyes, and each ride feels unique. Throw in a myriad of races to partake in - including one that lets you pit yourself against a plane - and Forza Horizon 2 becomes a mandatory purchase.

5. Project CARS

This racing game from Slightly Mad Studios (the developers behind Need For Speed: Shift and its sequel, Shift 2: Unleashed) puts a lot of emphasis on simulation, over arcade-styled gameplay.

Project CARS is on the PS4, Xbox One, and PC. It promises a rock solid true to life simulation, complete with realistic physics and handling, and nearly everything in-game can be modified to suit your preference - from how the map is displayed, to tweaking things like stability control.