Virtual reality and simulation games are a match made in heaven, especially for racing fans. The combination of VR's immersive capabilities and the thrill of racing creates an unparalleled experience. Let’s explore some of the best racing games that VR has to offer, starting with Automobilista 2, Assetto Corsa Competizione, Dirt Rally 2, the new WRC game, and iRacing.
Automobilista 2 is a standout racing sim that works seamlessly in VR, including with high-end headsets like the Pimax Crystal. This game delivers excellent performance right out of the box. I installed it, played it, and hit a smooth 90 FPS on my first try. Whether you’re racing multiple cars on the track or tackling challenging weather conditions, Automobilista 2 offers incredible fidelity. Driving legendary F1 cars or experiencing a night race during a heavy storm in VR is breathtaking. Although it’s not the cheapest option, the game’s quality and the availability of a free demo make it worth a try.
For those looking to dive deeper into online competitive racing, Assetto Corsa Competizione is a fantastic choice. While it requires some tweaking to achieve optimal VR performance, the effort is worth it. The game’s fidelity and sound design are top-notch, providing a clear and immersive experience, especially with the Pimax Crystal. Racing in the rain is particularly intense, and the overall visual and auditory feedback is spectacular.
If rally racing is your passion, Dirt Rally 2 is a must-have. Despite being released in 2019, it still delivers solid performance in VR, especially with the Quest 3. It’s almost plug-and-play; just set up your headset, and you’re ready to go. The graphics might not be as advanced as newer titles, but for a discounted price of $4.99, it’s a steal. The game is enjoyable, though not as immersive as Automobilista 2 or Assetto Corsa Competizione.
The new WRC game is making waves with its VR beta update. Despite some initial blurriness and flickering, the game is highly immersive. The detailed environments, realistic lighting, and night driving experiences are impressive. Once the beta issues are resolved, this game has the potential to be the most immersive racing title in VR. It's a promising addition to the VR racing scene, offering a fresh and engaging experience.
iRacing is another great option, especially for those serious about racing sims. While it may not be the best choice for beginners, it performs well in VR with minimal tweaking. The car models are superb, and the experience of close-quarters racing is thrilling. Although the scenery graphics are mediocre, the recent addition of rain effects adds to the realism. With further improvements, iRacing could become even more immersive.
For those who wear glasses, prescription lenses from VR Wave are a game-changer. They prevent damage to your VR headset lenses and reduce eye strain with a blue light filter. I highly recommend them for a more comfortable and immersive VR experience.
These VR racing games offer a range of experiences, from plug-and-play simplicity to deeply immersive competitive racing. Whether you're new to VR or a seasoned enthusiast, there's a game on this list that will suit your needs. Share your thoughts in the comments below and let me know which racing simulation you find most immersive.
I'm Laurens — the real person behind this digital canvas of Virtual Reality. I'm a Virtual Reality content creator who also translates YouTube transcripts into blogs.
