Of all the subgenres in the racing game scene, it might be drag racing that doesn’t get much love due to its extremely simple mechanics. While it may seem that these types of races only require two racers to battle it out while racing in a straight line, there is much more nuance in choosing not only the car and track, but also the characteristics of said vehicles, with things like because shifting becomes a much bigger problem here than in other breeds.
Fortunately, players who want to experience drag racing in games can watch some Play station titles to satisfy their fantasy. It seems that over the years there have been some drag racing titles for different PlayStation consoles that suit a player’s interests.
7/7 IHRA Drag Racing (2001 – PS1)
Players looking for an authentic “classic” drag racing experience may want to check out IHRA Drag Racing for the PlayStation 1. Although considered the second of the IHRA Drag Racing series of games, Drag racing for the PS1 is the first of the series on the PlayStation. Similar to other racing games, IHRA Drag Racing allows players to choose their vehicles next to tracks to race on in career mode, similar to an International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) experience.
However, where? IHRA Drag Racing shines is in the depths of car management. In addition to the ability to buy parts, there are other stats that can affect a car’s performance throughout the race, so players can watch. In addition, the game’s “classic” look brings a strong arcade racing vibe to players, making IHRA Drag Racing a pleasure to participate in despite the technical difficulties.
6/7 Gran Turismo 7 (2022 – PS4, PS5)
Following and beating 12 predecessors is quite an achievement to get ahead of the Gran Turismo franchise, and yet Gran Turismo 7 knows how to meet expectations. The game not only features 19 locations with up to 27 different configurations, but also includes a whopping 177 cars of different types. On top of that is an expanded campaign mode and in-depth sports mode and Arcade mode offers.
While not necessarily a “hard” drag race title, the “free-for-all” focus of Gran Turismo 7 sure to be a welcome sight for those new to drag racing or wanting to experience a drag racing title with visually stunning graphics. Those who want a more straightforward drag race may appreciate a more simplistic take on it Gran Turismo 7 before taking on more in-depth drag racing titles.
5/7 Dirt Rally 2.0 (2019 – PS4)
Racing game fans would watch Dirty Rally 2.0 for an extremely realistic take on the genre, especially because of its nature. After all, given the franchise’s focus on rallycross and rallying, it makes sense for the title to be extremely physics-driven. In addition to being able to choose from up to 50 cars, competitions have an active weather system that affects the car’s performance, as well as road surfaces that change based on pressure, requiring extreme focus from players.
In turn, it makes sense for Dirty Rally 2.0 to have active drag race components despite not being the total focus. The game’s various stages and matchmaking options allow players to engage others in one-on-one matchups that mimic those of drag racing. Not to mention the extreme realism of Dirty Rally 2.0‘s physics system is perfect for those who want to experience an extremely realistic drag race competition.
4/7 Need for Speed (2015 – PS4)
Underground racing culture has become a common theme in the Need for speed franchise, with drag racing becoming a prominent feature and game mode for many of its titles. That is still the case with need for speed, released in 2015, and the drag racing component was arguably the most flexible in the franchise to date. Thanks in part to EA’s focus on the “Speedhunters” aesthetic, the game’s urban car culture is giving drag racing a much-needed “stylish” makeover.
In regards to the drag mechanic itself, the 2015 title takes a similar approach to other drag racing games. Aside from the primary racing component, Drag Races in Need for speed require racers to perform great burnouts, keep things at the right RPM range and ensure a “perfect” launch to gain an early advantage.
3/7 The Crew 2 (2018 – PS4, PS5)
At first sight, The crew 2 looks like a typical racing game. However, similar to the first game, The crew 2 let players become “the best of the base” in all kinds of racing styles. Using the ongoing open world, players can control vehicles outside of cars, such as motorboats, motorcycles, and airplanes. However, where? The crew 2 shines is in its racing disciplines: Freestyle, Off-Road, Pro Racing and Street Racing, allowing players to participate in special drag racing competitions.
As with other drag racing titles, The crew 2‘s take on drag racing requires players to focus on timing their shifts. Unlike other racing games with extreme focus on realism, The crew 2‘s drag racing adds a tasteful “casual” vibe to the mix, giving it a lighter yet simple approach, perfect for those who just want to experience drag racing without the complex mechanics.
2/7 Project Cars 2 (2017 – PS4)
While The crew takes players on a more “casual” multi-race experience, Project cars 2 ups the ante and takes players across several pro racetracks, but with a focus on realism and intense physics. The game allows players to pursue careers in touring cars, rallycross, prototypes, GT and open wheels, Project cars 2 opens a lot of doors to different types of racing – especially drag racing.
With multiple types of surfaces interacting with the weather, Project cars 2 becomes one of the best ways to experience drag racing as realistically as possible. Not only that, players can try drag racing with some of the wildest cars of their choice, from open-wheel vehicles to futuristic-looking, premium prototypes. These, in addition to the game’s punishing physics, ensure that Project cars 2 a great way to simulate drag racing without introducing the more intense mechanics of the sport.
1/7 NHRA Championship Drag Racing: Speed For All (2022 – PS4, PS5)
Unsurprisingly, a drag racing game that follows one of drag racing’s most popular governing bodies made its way to consoles. The most recent NHRA Championship Drag Racing: Speed for Everyone is one such example, pursuing the same thrills afforded by National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) leagues, with players now behind the wheel. Compared to other racing games with drag racing component, Speed for everyone takes drag racing front and center.
New and veteran fans of the genre would appreciate the title’s focus on realism compared to other racing games that focus on street racing. Apart from 38 NHRA drivers who are famous in real life, the game links its physics-based engine to real tracks. Not only that, the game is also an excellent way to introduce newcomers to the intricacies of drag racing, making it a must-see for those new to the sport.
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