Driving games tested

Driving games let you have fun without leaving your living room. High-definition consoles like the Sony PlayStation 3 and Microsoft Xbox 360 can now process detailed graphics and offer engaging gameplay. But should you go for an arcade title, simulator or kids’ game?

We’ve assessed 12 of the top racing titles on the market to help you decide which is best for you.

How we tested them

We rated our games on fun and gameplay, as well as graphics, car handling and audio. Split-screen multiplayer modes are good, as they let you play friends on the same TV, while we also noted which offered online play. Where possible, we tested our games on the same PS3, but those sold on more than one platform got extra points.

Finally, we rated value. Our prices are from retailer game.co.uk on the day of our test.

Verdict

The spread of games on offer is impressive, but ideally we’d have a karting title for occasional fun, plus a realistic simulator. GT5 takes the win, as it’s arcade one minute and simulator the next. For sheer realism, F1 2012 takes second place, while F1 Race Stars is our pick of the karting titles.

1. Gran Turismo 5: Academy Edition
2. F1 2012
3. F1 Race Stars