Racing games can be a thrilling way for families to bond and have fun together, whether you’re competing against each other or just enjoying the ride. The best family-friendly racing games are accessible for players of all ages and skill levels, offering colorful graphics, easy-to-understand mechanics, and a variety of gameplay options. Whether you’re racing go-karts, navigating through wild tracks, or experiencing fun, light-hearted competitions, there’s a perfect racing game for every family. Let’s explore the best racing games that are perfect for family play.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Nintendo Switch)
Why It’s Great for Families
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is arguably the most iconic family-friendly racing game available today. With its vibrant characters, fun power-ups, and wide array of tracks, it’s a game that everyone can enjoy, regardless of age or experience. Whether you’re playing solo or in multiplayer mode, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a game that encourages friendly competition and ensures everyone has a good time. The game’s simple controls make it easy for younger players to get into the action, while the added challenge of advanced power-ups keeps the more experienced players engaged.
Key Features:
- Players: Up to 4 players in local multiplayer, 12 players online.
- Accessibility: Simple controls with customizable difficulty options.
- Fun Factor: Bright, whimsical characters and imaginative tracks.
Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled (PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC)
Why It’s Great for Families
Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled is a perfect throwback to the classic kart racing genre, with plenty of new features to keep things fresh. With simple but engaging gameplay, the game is great for family play. Players can choose from a range of quirky characters and race through colorful tracks full of obstacles and surprises. The game also features a team-based mode, where players can work together, making it ideal for family groups. The difficulty can be adjusted to suit the experience level of all players, so no one feels left behind.
Key Features:
- Players: Up to 4 players in local multiplayer.
- Accessibility: Simple, intuitive controls with an emphasis on fun, not realism.
- Fun Factor: A combination of nostalgia and new content with a variety of characters and fun power-ups.
Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed (PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC)
Why It’s Great for Families
Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed combines the best of kart racing with fast-paced action. Players can race through dynamic tracks that change mid-race, transforming vehicles from cars to boats to planes. With characters from the Sonic universe, as well as other iconic SEGA franchises, the game is packed with fun, colorful, and imaginative elements that appeal to both younger players and adults. The easy-to-learn mechanics, combined with fast-paced action and exciting multiplayer modes, make it an ideal choice for family play.
Key Features:
- Players: Up to 4 players in local multiplayer, 8 players online.
- Accessibility: Easy-to-use controls, but with enough challenge for more competitive players.
- Fun Factor: Creative racing tracks that shift between different vehicle types and iconic characters.
Conclusion
The best racing games for families combine fun, accessibility, and excitement, ensuring that players of all ages and skill levels can join in the fun. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic kart racer like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, a creative adventure like LittleBigPlanet Karting, or a more realistic racing experience in Forza Horizon 4, there’s a game on this list that will offer countless hours of entertainment for the entire family. With multiplayer modes, adjustable difficulty, and simple mechanics, these racing games are perfect for creating lasting memories with your loved ones. So, gather your family, pick your favorite racer, and get ready for some fast-paced fun!