For racing enthusiasts, vehicle customization is just as thrilling as the race itself. From tweaking performance to designing unique exteriors, customization allows players to make their cars truly their own. Here’s a list of the top racing games that offer extensive car customization in 2024.
1. Forza Horizon 5
Platforms: Xbox, PC
Why It’s Great:
Forza Horizon 5 takes car customization to the next level with its wide array of options. Players can modify almost every aspect of their vehicles, from engine swaps to fine-tuning suspension settings. The livery editor is perfect for creating unique designs, whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore gearhead.
Customization Highlights:
- Detailed performance tuning and upgrades.
- Extensive paint and decal options.
- Community-shared designs for inspiration.
2. Need for Speed: Unbound
Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Why It’s Great:
Need for Speed: Unbound continues the franchise’s tradition of over-the-top customization. Players can design cars with bold decals, neon underglows, and stylish wraps, embodying the street-racing culture. Performance tweaks allow for optimized builds tailored to racing styles.
Customization Highlights:
- Flashy visual mods like smoke effects and unique wraps.
- Deep engine tuning options.
- Personalize your ride for urban street racing.
3. Gran Turismo 7
Platforms: PlayStation
Why It’s Great:
Gran Turismo 7 balances realism with extensive customization options. Players can fine-tune cars for specific tracks, adjust aerodynamics, and even explore historical liveries for classic vehicles. The car museum feature also deepens the appreciation for each ride.
Customization Highlights:
- Advanced tuning for professional-level performance.
- Realistic livery editor with historical themes.
- Endless options for car parts and upgrades.
4. Assetto Corsa Competizione
Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Why It’s Great:
Known for its ultra-realistic driving mechanics, Assetto Corsa Competizione offers performance-oriented customization. Though visual options are limited, the game shines in allowing detailed tweaks to tire pressure, aerodynamics, and suspension setups, perfect for sim-racing fans.
Customization Highlights:
- In-depth performance modifications.
- Realistic tuning for competitive racing.
- Focused on functionality over visuals.
5. CarX Drift Racing Online
Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Mobile
Why It’s Great:
For drift racing fans, CarX Drift Racing Online offers some of the most creative customization options. The game emphasizes both style and performance, enabling players to modify cars for maximum drift potential while sporting unique looks.
Customization Highlights:
- Adjustable wheel camber and suspension for drifting.
- Vibrant visual mods, including custom vinyl wraps.
- Fun, arcade-style tuning for creativity.
6. Dirt 5
Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Why It’s Great:
Dirt 5 combines off-road racing with exciting customization options. Players can modify vehicles for challenging terrains while experimenting with unique paint jobs and decals. The customization ensures your vehicle can handle any track while looking great.
Customization Highlights:
- Performance mods for off-road racing.
- Colorful wraps and decals.
- Focused on terrain-based optimization.
7. Midnight Club: Los Angeles
Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox
Why It’s Great:
A classic game that still holds its own, Midnight Club: Los Angeles remains iconic for its deep customization features. Players can transform cars with new bumpers, spoilers, rims, and neon lights while enhancing performance for street racing.
Customization Highlights:
- Extensive body kits and vinyl options.
- Performance upgrades for top speeds.
- Street-racing aesthetics.
8. The Crew 2
Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Why It’s Great:
The Crew 2 allows players to customize not just cars but also boats and planes. For cars, the customization options are vast, ranging from engine upgrades to cosmetic modifications like flashy liveries and rims.
Customization Highlights:
- Multi-vehicle customization (cars, boats, planes).
- Unique wraps and colors for each vehicle type.
- Extensive upgrade paths for all-around racing.
Conclusion
Racing games with robust customization options allow players to express creativity and build cars that match their racing styles. Whether you prefer street racing (Need for Speed), realistic tuning (Gran Turismo 7), or drifting (CarX Drift Racing Online), these games offer something for every gearhead. Choose your favorite and start crafting the perfect ride.
