Our Unbiased Detailed Review Of The 10 Best Racing Games For macOS

In the gaming world, Mac users often find themselves in a unique position. While traditionally known for their sleek design and powerful hardware, Mac computers haven't always been synonymous with gaming prowess. However, times have changed, and the Mac gaming scene has evolved significantly, offering an array of thrilling experiences for enthusiasts of all genres. 

One genre that's gained particular traction is racing games, providing Mac users with a ticket to the adrenaline-fueled world of high-speed racing, breathtaking graphics, and heart-pounding competition. 

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take a turbocharged journey through the world of macOS racing games. Whether you're a casual gamer looking to unwind with a quick race or a dedicated gearhead in search of a realistic racing simulation, we've got you covered. 

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10. Dirt Rally

Developed and published by Codemasters and released in 2015, Dirt Rally is a rally racing video game that offers gamers a realistic rally racing experience.      Below is our honest review of Dirt Rally:

Realism and Simulation:

   Pros: Dirt Rally excels in providing a realistic rally racing simulation. The physics engine accurately portrays the challenges of off-road racing, including different surface types like gravel, mud, and snow.   

   Cons: The steep learning curve may deter casual gamers as novices might get frustrated by the difficulty of controlling the cars.

Graphics and Presentation:

   Pros: The game boasts impressive graphics, especially in terms of car models and environments. The attention to detail in the dirt, weather effects, and lighting is commendable.   

   Cons: Some graphical glitches and occasional frame rate drops were reported on certain hardware configurations.

Gameplay:

   Pros: The wide variety of cars and tracks to choose from makes the core gameplay exhilarating. Also, the dynamic weather system adds an extra layer of challenge, as weather conditions can change mid-race.   

   Cons: The lack of a comprehensive tutorial or assistance for newcomers can be off-putting. The demanding nature of the game may discourage less experienced players.

Content and Variety:

   Pros: The game offers a decent selection of rally cars and tracks across different locations around the world. The Career Mode provides depth, allowing players to progress through various championships.   

   Cons: Some players may find the game's content somewhat limited compared to other racing titles with larger rosters of cars and tracks.

Multiplayer:

   Pros: Multiplayer modes offer a competitive edge to the game by allowing players to challenge each other online. Rallycross events are particularly fun and intense.   

   Cons: Connectivity issues and a relatively small online community can sometimes make it challenging to find multiplayer matches.

Sound Design:

   Pros: The exceptional sound design captures the rumbling engine noises and gravel crunching under tires. It adds to the immersive experience of the game.   

   Cons: Some players have reported minor issues with audio synchronization and balance.

Verdict: 

Dirt Rally is a solid rally racing simulation that caters primarily to hardcore fans of the genre. Its realism, graphics, and attention to detail are commendable, but it may not be the best choice for players looking for a more casual racing experience.

9. F1 2017

F1 2017 is a Formula 1 racing video game developed and published by Codemasters in 2017. Unfortunately, the latest 2022 installment isn’t yet available for macOS. Below is our honest review of F1 2017:

Realism and Simulation:

   Pros: F1 2017 strikes a balance between realism and accessibility. The physics and handling of the Formula 1 cars are engaging without being overly challenging for newcomers.   

   Cons: Some hardcore sim racing enthusiasts might find the game's physics slightly less realistic compared to dedicated simulators like iRacing or Assetto Corsa.

Graphics and Presentation:

   Pros: The game features impressive visuals, with highly detailed car models and well-rendered race tracks. The attention to detail in recreating the F1 experience, including the pit stops and podium celebrations, is notable.   

   Cons: While the graphics are generally excellent, occasional frame rate drops and minor graphical glitches were reported on certain hardware.

Gameplay:

   Pros: F1 2017 delivers exciting and competitive Formula 1 racing. The game’s highlight is notably the Career Mode allowing players to immerse themselves in the life of an F1 driver with team management aspects.   

   Cons: Some may find the AI opponents to be inconsistent in their behavior, occasionally leading to unrealistic on-track incidents.

Content and Variety:

   Pros: The game offers a comprehensive roster of Formula 1 cars and tracks from the 2017 season. The inclusion of classic F1 cars from the past adds a nostalgic element.   

   Cons: The lack of updated content for subsequent seasons means that the game can become somewhat outdated over time.

Multiplayer:

   Pros: Multiplayer modes in F1 2017 lets players compete against others online. The addition of the "Championships" feature enhances the competitive experience.   

   Cons: Connectivity issues and a somewhat smaller online community compared to other popular multiplayer racing games can occasionally affect the online experience.

Sound Design:

   Pros: The sound design captures the roar of the F1 engines and the ambiance of race day. It contributes significantly to the immersion.   

   Cons: There have been occasional reports of minor audio glitches or discrepancies in sound levels.

Verdict:

F1 2017 offers a satisfying and immersive Formula 1 racing experience that caters to both hardcore fans of the sport and newcomers. Its attention to detail and enjoyable gameplay make it a strong choice for F1 enthusiasts, even if it's not the most hardcore simulation in the genre.

8. FlatOut 2

FlatOut 2 is a vehicular racing video game developed by Bugbear Entertainment and published by Empire Interactive. Released in 2006, it aimed to offer a unique blend of racing and destruction. Below is our honest review of FlatOut 2:

Realism and Simulation:

   Pros: FlatOut 2 intentionally prioritizes fun over realism. It provides an arcade-style racing experience with a focus on destructive and chaotic gameplay.   

   Cons: The lack of realism may deter players looking for a more authentic racing experience, as the physics and handling are exaggerated for entertainment purposes.

Graphics and Presentation:

   Pros: The game's graphics, especially for its time, were decent, with detailed vehicle models and destructible environments. Also, the crashes and collisions are visually satisfying.   

   Cons: By modern standards, the graphics may appear outdated and lack the level of detail seen in contemporary racing games.

Gameplay:

   Pros: FlatOut 2's gameplay is a blast, emphasizing high-speed racing and vehicular mayhem. The inclusion of various mini-games, like the "Stunt" mode, adds variety and keeps gameplay fresh.  

   Cons: Some players may find the controls a bit unwieldy and frustrating, especially during high-speed races.

Content and Variety:

   Pros: The game has a good amount of content thanks to the wide range of vehicles and tracks. The variety in race types and events, including demolition derbies, keeps the gameplay diverse.  

  Cons: The lack of licensed cars and tracks may disappoint players looking for a more authentic racing experience.

Multiplayer: 

   Pros: Multiplayer in FlatOut 2 is a riot. Players can compete against each other in both traditional races and chaotic demolition derbies.   

   Cons: The multiplayer community may be sparse due to the game's age.

Sound Design:

   Pros: The sound design adds to the overall chaotic atmosphere, with satisfying engine roars, crashes, and smashing noises.   

   Cons: The soundtrack, while subjective, may not appeal to everyone's taste.

Verdict:

FlatOut 2 is a thrilling and entertaining arcade racer that excels in providing chaotic and destructive gameplay. Since the game thrives on delivering fun and mayhem, it’s just the thing for gamers looking for a lighthearted and entertaining racing experience. However, players seeking realism and modern graphics may need to look elsewhere.

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7. Gravel

Released in 2018, Gravel is an off-road racing video game developed and published by Milestone S.r.l. Below is our honest review of Gavel:

Realism and Simulation:

   Pros: Gravel strikes a balance between realism and accessibility. The physics and handling of the off-road vehicles feel reasonably realistic without being overly complex.   

   Cons: Some hardcore sim racing enthusiasts may find the physics and vehicle behavior lacking in depth compared to more dedicated off-road simulators.

Graphics and Presentation:

   Pros: The game features impressive visuals with detailed vehicle models and a variety of scenic environments. The diverse landscapes provide a sense of immersion.   

   Cons: While the graphics are generally good, there are occasional instances of texture pop-in and minor graphical glitches.

Gameplay:

   Pros: Gravel offers a satisfying off-road racing experience with a wide range of vehicles and tracks. The dynamic weather system adds depth to the gameplay.  

  Cons: Some players have reported occasional issues with AI behavior, such as unrealistic situations during races.

Content and Variety:

   Pros: The game’s decent selection of off-road vehicles and tracks offers players a variety of environments and challenges.

   Cons: The lack of licensed vehicles or tracks from real-world off-road events may disappoint players looking for a more authentic experience.

Verdict:

Gravel is a solid off-road racing game that provides a satisfying and immersive experience for fans of the genre. Its balance between realism and accessibility makes it accessible to a wide range of players, although some may wish for more depth in certain aspects of the game. It's a good choice for those looking for a fun and varied off-road racing experience.

6. Grid: Autosport

Grid: Autosport is a racing video game developed by Codemasters and released in 2014. It aimed to provide a balanced mix of simulation and arcade-style racing. Below is our review of Grid: Autosport:

Realism and Simulation:

   Pros: Grid: Autosport strikes a good balance between realism and accessibility. The physics and handling of the cars offer an engaging and enjoyable driving experience without being overly complex.   

   Cons: Some hardcore sim racing enthusiasts may find the game's physics and vehicle behavior somewhat simplified compared to dedicated racing simulators.

Graphics and Presentation:

   Pros: The game boasts impressive graphics, with detailed car models, well-designed tracks, and a polished overall presentation. The visual effects and lighting contribute to a visually appealing experience.   

   Cons: While generally excellent, some players have encountered minor graphical glitches or occasional frame rate drops on certain hardware configurations.

Gameplay:

   Pros: Grid: Autosport delivers exciting and competitive racing gameplay. The Career Mode is a standout feature, allowing players to progress through various racing disciplines.   

   Cons: Some players have reported that the AI opponents can behave unrealistically at times.

Content and Variety:

   Pros: The game offers a comprehensive roster of cars and tracks, spanning different racing disciplines like Touring, Endurance, and Open-Wheel racing. This variety keeps the gameplay diverse.   

   Cons: While diverse, some players may wish for more licensed cars or tracks, particularly from specific racing series.

Multiplayer:

   Pros: The RaceNet system adds a layer of progression and community interaction in Grid Autosport’s Multiplayer Mode.   

   Cons: With the online community dwindling some over the years, it’s harder to find active multiplayer sessions.

Sound Design:

   Pros: The sound design in Grid: Autosport is well-executed, with realistic engine noises, tire screeches, and environmental sounds that enhance the racing experience.  

   Cons: Some players may not be as impressed with the soundtrack, but this is subjective.

Verdict:

Grid: Autosport is a solid racing game that successfully balances accessibility and realism. It provides an enjoyable racing experience with a wide range of content and gameplay modes, making it a good choice for players looking for a well-rounded racing game. 

However, it may not satisfy the most dedicated simulation racing enthusiasts due to its slightly simplified physics and vehicle behavior.

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5. MXGP3

MXGP3 is a motocross racing video game developed by Milestone S.r.l and released in 2017. Below is our review of MXGP3:

Realism and Simulation:

   Pros: MXGP3 places a strong emphasis on realism, particularly in the physics and handling of motocross bikes. The game strives to capture the challenges of motocross racing, including terrain deformation.   

   Cons: While realism is a selling point, it can also be a drawback for casual gamers, as the learning curve for mastering the bike physics can be steep.

Graphics and Presentation:

   Pros: The game features decent graphics with detailed motocross bike models and well-rendered tracks. The terrain deformation adds a layer of immersion to the visuals.   

   Cons: Some players have encountered minor graphical glitches, and the overall graphical fidelity may not match that of other contemporary racing games.

Gameplay:

   Pros: MXGP3 offers an authentic motocross racing experience, with a wide range of bikes, tracks, and weather conditions. The Career Mode allows players to progress through a motocross career.   

   Cons: The realistic physics and handling can make it challenging for newcomers to the series. Also, AI opponents may occasionally exhibit erratic behavior.

Content and Variety:

   Pros: The game offers a comprehensive roster of motocross bikes and tracks from the 2016 MXGP season. This variety ensures that players have numerous options for races and events.   

   Cons: The lack of licensed tracks or additional content beyond the 2016 season may disappoint players looking for more up-to-date content.

Multiplayer:

   Pros: MXGP3 features a multiplayer mode that allows players to compete against each other online. Racing against real opponents adds a competitive edge to the game.  

   Cons: The online multiplayer community may be smaller compared to more mainstream racing titles, potentially leading to difficulty in finding matches.

Verdict:

MXGP3 is a solid motocross racing game that excels in delivering a realistic and immersive experience. It caters primarily to motocross enthusiasts who appreciate the authenticity of the physics and the sport's challenges. However, it may not be the best choice for casual gamers due to its high level of realism and potentially steep learning curve.

4. Road Redemption

Released in 2017, Road Redemption is a vehicular combat racing video game developed by EQ-Games and Pixel Dash Studio. It aimed to capture the spirit of classic motorcycle combat games like Road Rash. Below is our review of Road Redemption:

Realism and Simulation

   Pros: By prioritizing fun over realism, Road Redemption leans heavily on arcade-style gameplay. It embraces the chaotic nature of motorcycle combat, allowing players to perform stunts and wield various weapons.   

   Cons: Realism is not a focus, so players seeking a true motorcycle simulation experience may be disappointed by the exaggerated physics and combat elements.

Graphics and Presentation:

   Pros: The game offers a distinctive visual style with a mix of realistic and stylized graphics. The environments and character models suit the gritty, post-apocalyptic theme.   

   Cons: While the visuals are generally adequate, they don’t compare favorably to more graphically advanced racing games.

Gameplay:

   Pros: Road Redemption excels in intense and action-packed gameplay. The combat elements, including weapons and melee attacks, make for a thrilling and entertaining experience.   

   Cons: Some players may find the controls challenging to master, especially when performing stunts or navigating through traffic.

Content and Variety:

   Pros: The game offers a range of motorcycles, weapons, and tracks, which adds depth to the gameplay. Also, the campaign mode provides progression and a sense of accomplishment.   

   Cons: The lack of licensed motorcycles or real-world tracks may limit the appeal for players seeking an authentic motorcycle racing experience.

Multiplayer:

   Pros: Road Redemption’s Multiplayer modes enhance the competitive experience with players to engaging in chaotic battles against each other online.   

   Cons: The online player base may vary, and finding a match could be challenging, depending on the time and region.

Verdict:

Road Redemption is a solid motorcycle combat racing game that excels in delivering a thrilling and entertaining experience reminiscent of classic titles. Its focus on chaotic gameplay, weapons, and progression makes it a good choice for players seeking a fun and action-packed racing experience. 

However, it may not satisfy those looking for a more realistic or simulation-oriented motorcycle racing game.

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3. Distance

Distance is a survival racing video game developed by Refract Studios. Released in 2018, the game combines racing with platforming elements in a futuristic setting. Below is our honest review of Distance:

Realism and Simulation:

   Pros: Distance doesn't aim for realism; instead, it focuses on an arcade-style experience with a futuristic twist. The game's mechanics prioritize fun and creativity over strict simulation.   

   Cons: Players looking for a traditional racing simulator with realistic physics and vehicle behavior may find Distance lacking in that department.

Graphics and Presentation:

   Pros: Distance offers stunning visuals with a unique, cyberpunk-inspired aesthetic. It seeks to create an immersive atmosphere through the tracks filled with vibrant neon lights and futuristic architecture.   

   Cons: While generally impressive, some players may encounter performance issues or minor graphical glitches on certain hardware configurations.

Gameplay:

   Pros: Distance delivers an exciting, fast-paced gameplay with a focus on both racing and platforming. The ability to drive on walls and ceilings adds a creative and unique twist to the racing genre.   Cons: Learning to master the controls and navigate complex tracks can be challenging for newbies.

Content and Variety:

   Pros: The game offers a variety of tracks, vehicles, and gameplay modes, including a robust level editor for player-generated content. The single-player campaign provides a rewarding sense of progression.   

   Cons: Some players may wish for more licensed cars or a greater number of tracks, but the level editor helps alleviate this limitation.

Verdict:

Distance is an impressive and creative racing game that offers a unique take on the genre. Its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and emphasis on user-generated content make it an excellent choice for players seeking a futuristic and creative racing experience. 

If you don’t care about a traditional racing simulator with realistic physics and vehicles, Distance might just be the platforming, racing game for you.

2. CSR Racing

CSR Racing (Custom Street Racing) is a series of drag racing video games developed by NaturalMotion Games and published by Zynga. The first game in the series was released in 2012, and the series has since expanded with multiple titles and updates. Below is our review of CSR Racing:

Realism and Simulation:

   Pros: CSR Racing simplifies the drag racing experience by focusing on timing and shifting rather than complex vehicle physics, making it easy for newcomers to pick up and play.   

   Cons: The simplified gameplay may not satisfy experienced players with a taste for more realistic or in-depth racing simulation experience.

Graphics and Presentation:

   Pros: CSR Racing games generally have impressive graphics, with high-quality car models, detailed environments, and a sleek user interface. The attention to visual detail contributes to the game's appeal.   

   Cons: While the graphics are generally outstanding, some players might feel the game could do better with track variety and environment design.

Gameplay:

   Pros: The gameplay in CSR Racing revolves around timing and shifting gears during drag races. It's easy to pick up and offers quick, engaging races suitable for mobile gaming.   

   Cons: The simplicity of the gameplay may become repetitive for some players over time, as it lacks the depth and variety found in more complex racing games.

Content and Variety:

   Pros: CSR Racing games feature an extensive roster of cars from various manufacturers. Also, the progression system and car upgrades add depth to the gameplay.   

  Cons: While there are a variety of cars, the core gameplay remains focused on drag racing, which may not provide the variety some players seek in a racing game.

Multiplayer:

   Pros: Multiplayer modes are available in CSR Racing.   

   Cons: The competitiveness in multiplayer can sometimes be influenced by the availability of premium in-game currency for car upgrades, potentially affecting the balance of races.

Verdict:

CSR Racing is a series that primarily targets mobile gamers looking for a quick and accessible drag racing experience. Its strengths lie in its graphics, car collection aspect, and straightforward gameplay, making it suitable for casual gaming. 

However, players seeking deeper racing simulation experiences or more variety in race types may need to explore other racing game titles.

1. Motorsport Manager

Motorsport Manager is a series of motorsport management simulation video games developed by Playsport Games and published by Sega. These games offer players the opportunity to manage their own racing team. Here's our honest review of Motorsport Manager:

Realism and Simulation:

   Pros: Motorsport Manager aims for a realistic and immersive experience in the world of motorsports management. It offers a deep simulation of team management, including car development, race strategies, and driver dynamics.   

   Cons: While it provides a detailed simulation, some players may find the learning curve steep, particularly if they are new to motorsports management games.

Graphics and Presentation:

   Pros: The games feature clean and visually appealing user interfaces, well-designed race animations, and detailed car models. The presentation captures the essence of managing a motorsport team.   

   Cons: While the graphics are generally good for a management simulation, they may not compare favorably to visually stunning racing games with real-time 3D graphics.

Gameplay:

   Pros: Motorsport Manager offers engaging gameplay by allowing players to make strategic decisions that impact their team's success. The mix of car development, driver management, and race strategy keeps players involved.   

   Cons: The micromanagement aspect of the game may be overwhelming for some players, and it requires a time investment to master.

Content and Variety:

   Pros: The series offers a variety of motorsport categories, including Formula 1-style racing, endurance racing, and more. Each category brings its own unique challenges and strategies.   

   Cons: While there is variety in terms of racing categories, some players may wish for even more diversity in terms of in-game events and challenges.

Verdict:

The Motorsport Manager series is a must-play for fans of motorsports and management simulation games. Its depth and realism in team management provide a rewarding and engaging experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in the world of motorsports. However, players looking for quick, action-packed racing may find it too focused on strategy and management.