Unleash Your Inner Racer: The Best Forza Horizon Alternatives
Forza Horizon has long been a titan in the world of open-world racing, offering highly configurable cars, expansive environments, and thrilling adventures. However, even the most beloved games can leave players craving something new, a different challenge, or a platform not supported by Forza Horizon. Whether you're on Windows, PlayStation, Steam, Xbox, Android, or seeking free and open-source options, a diverse range of excellent racing games await. This list compiles 18 apps similar to Forza Horizon, providing you with fantastic alternatives to keep the rubber burning.
Top Forza Horizon Alternatives
Looking for a new adrenaline rush? These games offer similar open-world freedom, intense racing action, or unique twists on the genre that make them worthy contenders for your next gaming obsession. From established franchises to hidden gems, find your next favorite racing game here.
Need for Speed
Need for Speed is a legendary racing game series that has been captivating players for decades. Available on a wide array of platforms including Windows, Android, iPhone, PlayStation, and Steam, it offers a commercial arcade racing experience. If you enjoy fast-paced action and a strong focus on street racing, Need for Speed provides a fantastic alternative to Forza Horizon's more diverse motorsport approach.
TrackMania
TrackMania stands out as a highly popular online PC racing game, known for its pure arcade driving madness. With hundreds of thousands of tracks, millions of players, and features like massive multiplayer and a free-to-play model (commercial for some versions), it's a great Forza Horizon alternative for those who love creative tracks and competitive online play. It's primarily available on Windows and Linux (via Wine).
Real Racing
Real Racing 3 is an award-winning mobile racing franchise that sets a high standard for on-the-go gaming. Available as a freemium title on Android, iPhone, Android Tablet, and iPad, it offers a robust racing experience with detailed cars and tracks. While not an open-world game, its realistic physics and extensive content make it a compelling Forza Horizon alternative for mobile gamers.
TORCS
TORCS, The Open Racing Car Simulator, is a highly portable multi-platform car racing simulation. As a free and open-source alternative available on Mac, Windows, Linux, and BSD, it's perfect for those seeking a more simulation-focused experience than Forza Horizon. It's often used for AI racing and as a research platform, offering deep customization for the technically inclined.
GT Racing
GT Racing offers a true-to-life automotive experience, allowing players to drive some of the world's most prestigious cars. Available as a freemium game on Android, iPhone, Android Tablet, and iPad, it's a strong mobile Forza Horizon alternative if you're looking for licensed cars and a focus on track racing rather than open-world exploration. It emphasizes realistic driving and car collection.
Live for Speed
Live for Speed is a serious racing simulator, eschewing arcade modes and steering aids to provide a pure, unadulterated driving experience. Available as a freemium title on Windows, it's a fantastic Forza Horizon alternative for simulation purists who want to truly master driving physics. Its focus is on realistic handling and competitive online racing.
GRID
GRID, formerly TOCA/Race Driver, is a commercial racing video game series by Codemasters. Available on Windows, Steam, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch Online, it focuses on professional motorsport with various disciplines, intense rivalries, and team dynamics. If you enjoy the competitive aspect of Forza Horizon but prefer structured race events over open-world exploration, GRID is an excellent choice with strong multiplayer and single-player options.
Extreme Car Driving Simulator 3D
Extreme Car Driving Simulator 3D is a free driving simulation game available on Android and Android Tablet, built on a real car physics engine. It offers a large open world for stunts and exploration, making it a viable Forza Horizon alternative for mobile users who love freedom and performing outrageous maneuvers. With various supercars and different game modes, it provides a playful take on open-world driving.
Project CARS
Project CARS delivers an immersive racing experience across multiple VR and other gaming platforms, including Windows, HTC Vive, Steam, PlayStation, Xbox, and Oculus Rift. As a commercial simulation title, it provides a much more realistic and detailed driving experience compared to Forza Horizon's arcade leanings. If you're looking for a serious racing simulation with VR support and deep car customization, Project CARS is a top-tier alternative.
With such a rich variety of racing games available, you're sure to find a Forza Horizon alternative that perfectly matches your preferences. Whether you prioritize hyper-realistic simulation, arcade thrills, open-world exploration, or mobile convenience, the world of racing games has something spectacular in store for you. Explore these options and hit the road!