I’m lucky in that my passion for gaming has been picked up by my kids. This means we can spend quality time together doing something we all love. My two are into their racing games at the moment, so I’ve spent countless hours exploring the world of racing games with them.
It’s been a joy to watch their eyes light up as they zoom around virtual tracks, master new skills, and squeal at the thrills of big crashes. Racing games offer a unique blend of excitement, strategy, and fun that appeals to kids of all ages.
Today, I’ll share my top picks for the best racing video games for kids, explaining what makes each one special and which age groups they’re best suited for. So buckle up, and let’s take a spin through some fantastic family-friendly racing experiences.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
When it comes to racing games that the whole family can enjoy, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is in a league of its own. As the eighth instalment in the beloved Mario Kart series, this game has perfected the formula that makes kart racing so much fun.
Why Kids Love It
My children absolutely adore Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and it’s easy to see why. The colourful, whimsical tracks based on familiar Nintendo franchises are a visual treat. The game’s accessibility is another huge plus – even younger kids can pick up and play with features like auto-acceleration and steering assist.
Gameplay Features
What sets Mario Kart apart is its brilliant balance of skill and chance. The item system keeps races unpredictable and exciting, allowing less experienced players to stay competitive. The game offers a variety of modes, from Grand Prix tournaments to Battle Mode, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
Multiplayer Magic
One of the best aspects of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is its multiplayer options. Up to four players can race together on a single Switch console, making it perfect for family game nights or playdates. Online play extends the fun even further, allowing kids to race against friends or players from around the world.
Age Recommendation
I’d recommend Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for kids aged 5 and up. The game’s adjustable difficulty and assist features make it accessible to younger players, while older kids and adults will enjoy mastering the more advanced techniques.
Hot Wheels Unleashed
Hot Wheels Unleashed is a racing game that perfectly captures the essence of playing with toy cars. As someone who grew up with Hot Wheels, it’s been a delight to share this game with my children and watch their imaginations soar.
The Hot Wheels Experience
What makes Hot Wheels Unleashed special is how it translates the joy of collecting and racing toy cars into a digital format. The game features a vast array of meticulously detailed Hot Wheels vehicles, many of which kids will recognise from their own collections.
Exciting Environments
The tracks in Hot Wheels Unleashed are set in everyday locations like bedrooms, kitchens, and garages, but they’re anything but ordinary. Loop-the-loops, gravity-defying turns, and spectacular jumps make every race an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
Customisation and Creativity
One of my favourite features is the track editor, which allows players to design their own courses. It’s been wonderful to see my kids’ creativity flourish as they craft increasingly complex and imaginative tracks.
Age Recommendation
I’d suggest Hot Wheels Unleashed for kids aged 7 and up. While the controls are straightforward, some of the tracks can be quite challenging, which might frustrate younger players.
Forza Horizon 5
Forza Horizon 5 offers a more realistic racing experience set in a stunning open world. While it’s not specifically designed for children, it’s become a favourite in our household for its breathtaking visuals and varied gameplay.
Exploring Mexico
The game is set in a fictionalised version of Mexico, featuring diverse landscapes from lush jungles to arid deserts. My kids love just driving around and exploring the world, discovering hidden roads and beautiful vistas.
Diverse Racing Experiences
What I appreciate about Forza Horizon 5 is the variety of racing styles it offers. From traditional circuit races to off-road adventures and even stunt challenges, there’s always something new to try.
Educational Value
Surprisingly, we’ve found Forza Horizon 5 to have some educational benefits. It’s sparked conversations about geography, car mechanics, and even physics as we discuss how different vehicles handle in various conditions.
Age Recommendation
Due to its more realistic nature and complex controls, I’d recommend Forza Horizon 5 for kids aged 10 and up. Younger children might enjoy watching or exploring the open world, but the racing itself will probably be too much for them.
Team Sonic Racing
Team Sonic Racing brings a unique twist to the kart racing genre by emphasising teamwork. It’s been a fantastic game for teaching my kids about cooperation while still enjoying the thrill of racing.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
In Team Sonic Racing, players compete in teams of three. What’s brilliant about this system is that it’s not just about crossing the finish line first – players need to work together, sharing power-ups and performing team moves to succeed.
Familiar Faces
For kids who are fans of Sonic the Hedgehog, this game is a treat. It features a wide cast of characters from the Sonic universe, each with their own unique abilities and racing styles.
Engaging Story Mode
The game includes a story mode that adds context to the races and helps develop the characters. My children have enjoyed following the plot and getting to know their favourite characters better.
Age Recommendation
I’d suggest Team Sonic Racing for kids aged 6 and up. The team mechanics add a layer of complexity, but the controls are straightforward enough for younger players to grasp.
Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fuelled
Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fuelled is a remake of the classic PlayStation game, bringing its chaotic racing action to modern consoles. As someone who played the original, it’s been a joy to introduce my kids to this updated version.
Wacky Characters and Tracks
The game features the colourful cast of the Crash Bandicoot series, racing on equally vibrant and imaginative tracks. The zany humour and over-the-top design have been a hit with my children.
Challenging Gameplay
One thing that sets Crash Team Racing apart is its more challenging nature. The power-sliding mechanic takes some practice to master, but it’s incredibly satisfying when you get it right.
Adventure Mode
The Adventure Mode provides a structured single-player experience, with boss battles and collectibles to find. It’s been a great way for my kids to improve their skills while feeling like they’re progressing through a story.
Age Recommendation
Due to its higher difficulty level, I’d recommend Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled for kids aged 8 and up. Younger players might find it frustrating, but for those willing to practice, it’s an incredibly rewarding game.
Rocket League
Rocket League is a unique blend of soccer and racing that has captivated players of all ages. It’s become a staple in our family game nights, offering a perfect mix of competition and hilarity.
Simple Concept, Deep Gameplay
The premise of Rocket League is simple: use your car to hit a giant ball into the opponent’s goal. However, mastering the art of aerial manoeuvres and precise ball control provides a satisfying learning curve.
Customisation Galore
One aspect my kids particularly enjoy is the vast array of customisation options. From decals and wheels to silly hats for your car, there’s no end to the creative combinations you can come up with.
Cross-Platform Play
Rocket League supports cross-platform play, meaning my children can team up with their friends regardless of what gaming system they’re using. This inclusivity has made it a go-to game for virtual playdates.
Age Recommendation
I’d recommend Rocket League for kids aged 7 and up. The basic controls are easy to grasp, but there’s plenty of depth for older players to explore.
Beach Buggy Racing 2: Island Adventure
Beach Buggy Racing 2: Island Adventure is a lighthearted kart racer that brings the fun of beach driving to your living room. It’s been a hit in our household for its cheerful atmosphere and accessible gameplay.
Tropical Paradise Racing
The game is set on a series of tropical islands, each with its own theme and challenges. The bright, cartoony graphics and upbeat music create a fun, relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for younger players.
Power-Up Mayhem
Like many kart racers, Beach Buggy Racing 2 features a variety of wacky power-ups. From coconut launchers to earthquakes, these add an element of unpredictability and levity to each race.
Split-Screen Multiplayer
One of the best features for family play is the split-screen multiplayer mode. Up to four players can race together on a single screen, making it ideal for siblings or family game nights.
Age Recommendation
I’d recommend Beach Buggy Racing 2: Island Adventure for kids aged 5 and up. Its simple controls and forgiving gameplay make it accessible to younger children, while the variety of tracks and power-ups keep it interesting for older players.
Trackmania Turbo
Trackmania Turbo offers a different kind of racing experience, focusing on time trials and precision driving rather than direct competition. It’s been an excellent game for teaching my kids about perseverance and self-improvement.
Over-the-Top Tracks
The tracks in Trackmania Turbo are like nothing you’ve seen before. Loops, corkscrews, and gravity-defying jumps are all par for the course. Each track is a puzzle to be solved, requiring a perfect blend of speed and control.
Quick Restarts
One feature I particularly appreciate is the instant restart. When you crash or miss a turn (which happens often), you can immediately try again. This keeps frustration to a minimum and encourages that “one more try” mentality.
Track Editor
Like Hot Wheels Unleashed, Trackmania Turbo includes a track editor. It’s been fascinating to see my children’s understanding of physics and game design grow as they create increasingly complex courses.
Age Recommendation
Due to its challenging nature, I’d recommend Trackmania Turbo for kids aged 9 and up. Younger players might enjoy watching or trying out the easier tracks, but the full game requires quite a bit of skill and patience.
Nickelodeon Kart Racers 3: Slime Speedway
Nickelodeon Kart Racers 3: Slime Speedway brings together characters from various Nickelodeon shows in a colourful, slime-filled racing extravaganza. It’s been a hit with my kids, especially those who are fans of shows like SpongeBob SquarePants and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Well Known Characters
The game features a large roster of characters from across the Nickelodeon universe. This variety has been great for my children, as they can each race as their favourite characters.
Slime-Powered Racing
True to its Nickelodeon roots, slime plays a big role in the game. Collecting slime during races powers up your kart, adding an extra layer of strategy to the racing action.
Arena Battle Mode
In addition to traditional races, the game includes a battle mode where players compete in arena-style matches. This adds some variety to the gameplay and has been great for when we want a quick, chaotic gaming session.
Age Recommendation
I’d recommend Nickelodeon Kart Racers 3: Slime Speedway for kids aged 6 and up. The controls are simple enough for younger players, and the familiar characters make it especially appealing to Nickelodeon fans.
Wreckfest
Wreckfest is a bit different from the other games on this list, focusing on demolition derby-style racing with realistic damage physics. While it’s not suitable for younger children, it’s become a favourite with older kids.
Spectacular Crashes
The main draw of Wreckfest is its incredible damage system. Cars crumple, parts fly off, and spectacular crashes are the norm. It’s been a great way to discuss physics and car design with my tech-minded teenagers.
Variety of Vehicles
From school buses to combine harvesters, Wreckfest features an eclectic mix of vehicles. Each handles differently and requires unique strategies, adding depth to the gameplay.
Customisation Options
The game offers extensive customisation options, allowing players to upgrade their vehicles’ performance and durability. My kids have enjoyed experimenting with different setups to find the perfect balance for each event.
Age Recommendation
Due to its more intense nature and complex physics, I’d recommend Wreckfest for kids aged 13 and up. It’s a great option for teenagers who have outgrown some of the more cartoony racing games but still enjoy the thrill of competition.