Rev your engines, the weekend is here and it’s the perfect time to have a Grand Prix amongst friends. That’s right, we’re booting up the racing sim games.
I have many a fond memory of spending a rainy Saturday racing against friends, all huddled around the PS2 and Crash Team Racing. Of course, now we don’t even need to leave the comfort of our own gaming environments to enjoy burning rubber. What better way is there to spend the weekend zooming around the track and having some high-octane fun? As such, we’ve put together five great racing sim games that you and the squad can compete in this weekend!
Not feeling like a petrolhead? Check out our other great games to play with your friends this weekend – we’ve got everything from MMOs to co-op chaos!
F1 2023
Naturally, our first port of call is to the Grand Prix itself, the F1 World Championships and F1 2023. This features all the world-famous racetracks, including the new Las Vegas and Qatar circuits, as well as a high drama “Braking Point” story campaign. With a F1 World hub system, you can partake in a variety of daily, weekly, and seasonal content to test your racing skills. There is even a virtual sticker album to fill as you complete challenges!
Additionally, the multiplayer modes have been revamped for this addition to the franchise. The game now features a division-based ranking system, Goals system, and Esports Series. Plenty of high-speed content for you and the squad to explore. What’s more, F1 23 fully supports crossplay between PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
F1 2023 Official Specifications
Does your gaming PC have an engine worthy of F1 or is it just a potato battery?
| Component | Minimum Specs | Recommended Specs |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 64-bit |
| CPU | Intel Core i3-2130 AMD FX 4300 | Intel Core i5 9600K AMD Ryzen 5 2600X |
| CPU for VR | Intel Core i5-9600K AMD Ryzen 5 2600X | Intel Core i5 9600K AMD Ryzen 5 2600X |
| Memory | 8GB RAM | 8GB RAM |
| GPU | NVIDIA GTX 1050 Ti AMD RX 470 | NVIDIA GTX 1660 Ti AMD RX 590 |
| GPU for Ray Tracing | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 AMD Radeon RX 6800 |
| GPU for VR | NVIDIA GTX 1660 Ti AMD RX 590 | NVIDIA RTX 2070 AMD RX 6700 XT |
| Driver | NVIDIA 522.25 AMD 23.2.1 | NVIDIA 528.49 AMD 23.2.1 |
| DirectX | Version 12 | Version 12 |
| Network | Broadband Internet connection | Broadband Internet connection |
| Storage | 80GB available space | 80GB available space |
| Sound Card | DirectX compatible | DirectX compatible |
| VR Support | Mouse and keyboard required | Mouse and keyboard required |
OcUK Gaming Gallium Configurable PC
Experience next-level gaming with the OcUK Gaming Rapier. This gaming PC is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 7600 CPU, built with Zen 4 architecture that has been primed for high-performance gaming. F1 23 has ray tracing and VR gameplay, which the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Super GPU is more than capable of handling. Enjoy realistic lighting effects as you speed through worldwide locations or hit the tarmac from within the cockpit itself. Plus, with high-speed DDR5 RAM and flexible SSD storage, you don’t have to worry about input lag or slow loading times. It’ll be you leaving everyone in the dust!
What’s more, the OcUK Gaming Rapier is one of our configurable gaming PCs. This means you can adjust the base spec to better suit your racing sim needs. Customise the PC case, CPU, memory, GPU, cooler, cables, operating system, and choose up to three SSDs. However, please note that changing the hardware will affect the price.
MOZA Racing FSR F1 Wheel
Race like the best of them, with the MOZA Racing FSR F1 Wheel, complete with a 4.3” HD digital dashboard. This racing wheel utilises the D-shape commonly found on F1 racing cars, offering a true-to-life experience. The digital dashboard provides you with all the information you need at a glance, whilst the variety of buttons and dials give you full control at your fingertips. What’s more, this racing wheel is manufactured from premium materials, such as carbon fibre, perforated leather, and aviation-grade aluminium, making for a stylish and durable finish.
The MOZA Racing FSR F1 does require a dedicated wheelbase, but it features a quick-release mechanism that boasts extensive compatibility with a range of wheelbases. MOZA Racing has a number of models in their line-up, but we like the R21 Direct Drive Wheelbase, for its limitless maximum steering angle and 21Nm of torque. Powerful stuff!
Lego 2K Drive
Add some unique, Lego-brand chaos to your racing sim, with Lego 2K Drive. This is a massive, open-world driving adventure, built in Bricklandia. Explore the land or compete in thrilling races, craft and modify the vehicle of your choice, and show off your driving skills in true wacky Lego fashion. There is something for every racer too, with off-roading in Big Butte Country, picturesque waterways in Propecto Valley, and a whole host of kooky quests wherever you go.
Lego 2K Drive has both local and online multiplayer support. You can share a local split screen or team up online from your own gaming environment. What’s more, it even has crossplay support, so you can play together regardless of which platform your mates are playing from.
Lego 2K Drive Official Specifications
Is your gaming PC ready to bring Lego 2K Drive to life brick by brick, or does it need another look at the instructions?
| Component | Minimum Specs | Recommended Specs |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 / 10 64-bit | Windows 11 / 10 64-bit |
| CPU | Intel Core Intel i5 4690 AMD Ryzen 5 1500X | Intel Core i7-4790 AMD Ryzen 5 3500 |
| Memory | 8GB RAM | 8GB RAM |
| GPU | NVIDIA 960 2GB AMD R9 380 | NVIDIA GeForce 1070 4GB AMD RX Vega-56 |
| DirectX | Version 12 | Version 12 |
| Network | Broadband Internet connection | Broadband Internet connection |
| Storage | 12GB available space | 12GB available space |
| Sound Card | DirectX 9.0x compatible card | DirectX 9.0x compatible card |
| Additional Notes | Dual-analog gamepad: Recommended | Dual-analog gamepad: Recommended |
Refract Gaming Jade Pre-Built PC
Race on with the Refract Gaming Jade. This pre-built PC has been crafted by our team of experts to facilitate high-octane 1080p and 1440p gaming. Featuring an AMD Ryzen 7 7700 CPU, the Jade utilises innovative Zen 4 architecture to intelligently manage your workload for optimum efficiency. Plus, with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Ti GPU, it will render Lego 2K Drive and all your favourite games in stunning, photorealistic quality. Armed with DDR5 RAM and SSD storage, there will be no stalled engines with this PC!
The Jade is part of our Refract Gaming Pre-Built PC range. It comes with three years parts and labour warranty, so you can rest easy with that extra peace of mind.
Like to know more about Lego 2K Drive before you get behind the wheel? Check out our dedicated article from our resident Lego enthusiast.
Forza Horizon 5
Naturally, we can’t talk about multiplayer racing sims without taking a road trip to Mexico in Forza Horizon 5. There are hundreds of acres to explore in some of the world’s greatest cars. Drive through jungles, cities, beaches, ruins, and even a snow-capped volcano. The campaign is chock-full of challenges and interesting characters to meet. Not tickled your fancy yet? There’s Hot Wheels DLC, too.
Forza Horizon 5 makes gaming with friends super easy, without the need for loading screens and lobbies. There are a few multiplayer modes, with different gameplays to master. Enjoy over the top challenges in Horizon Arcade, compete in races and more in Horizon Open, and even take on a battle royale in The Eliminator. Plus, you can even play the campaign co-operatively with friends. Endless choices!
Forza Horizon 5 Official Specifications
Is your gaming PC a supercar or in need of some fine-tuning?
| Component | Minimum Specs | Recommended Specs |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 64-bit |
| CPU | Intel Core i5-4460 AMD Ryzen 3 1200 | Intel Core i5-8400 AMD Ryzen 5 1500X |
| Memory | 8GB RAM | 16GB RAM |
| GPU | NVIDIA GTX 970 AMD RX 470 | NVIDIA GTX 1070 AMD RX 590 |
| DirectX | Version 12 | Version 12 |
| Network | Broadband Internet connection | Broadband Internet connection |
| Storage | 110GB available space | 110GB available space |
OcUK Gaming Osprey Configurable PC
Traverse the wilderness and beyond with the OcUK Gaming Osprey. This gaming PC is decked out with the latest and greatest from AMD. Harnessing the power of Zen 4 architecture, the Osprey utilises the AMD Ryzen 7 7700X CPU, boasting eight cores, sixteen threads, and boost speeds up to 5.0GHz. Paired with the AMD Radeon RX 7900 XT GPU and RDNA 3 architecture, this gaming PC is ready to bring Forza Horizon 5 to life, from paint job to wheel trims. What’s more, take advantage of high-speed DDR5 RAM and flexible SSD storage to experience near zero latency and input lag.
The OcUK Gaming Osprey is another of our configurable gaming PCs. Adjust the PC case, CPU, memory, GPU, cooler, braided cables, and operating system. You even have the option to install up to four storage drives. Perfect for if you need to create content between races! Please note that any changes will affect the price.
Learn more about Forza Horizon 5 and its support for crossplay in our dedicated article.
Disney Speedstorm
Maybe your racing sims need a sprinkling of magic. You know Disney Speedstorm brings the Disney magic in spades! Still in early access, this is a hero-based, combat racing sim where you race your favourite Disney stars on Pixar- and Disney-inspired tracks. Hit the Scare Floor from Monster’s Inc, speed around Kraken Port from Pirates of the Caribbean, or even traverse the Jungle Ruins from The Jungle Book. There are many iconic locations to explore, as well as customisations for your racer and car to unlock. Disney Speedstorm launched from early access to a full release in September 2023, and seasonal content inspired by popular Disney titles is still dropping.
Disney Speedstorm has an online, global multiplayer mode where you can face off against racers from around the world. But for your weekend gaming, you can also challenge your friends in local and online multiplayer racers. Simply pick your favourite Disney star and put the pedal to the metal! I call dibs on Megara!
Disney Speedstorm Official Specifications
Is your gaming PC the ultimate Disney Princess or a straight to VHS sequel?
| Component | Minimum Specs | Recommended Specs |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 64-bit |
| CPU | Intel Core i5-4460 AMD Ryzen 3 1300X | Intel Core i7-7700 AMD Ryzen 5 3600X |
| Memory | 8GB RAM | 16GB RAM |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 4GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 AMD Radeon R7 370 4GB | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 AMD Radeon 5700X |
| DirectX | Version 12 | Version 12 |
| Network | Broadband Internet connection | Broadband Internet connection |
| Storage | 20GB available space | 20GB available space |
MSI Vector 17 HX Gaming Laptop
Take your racing sims on the go, with the MSI Vector 17 HX. This gaming laptop boasts a QHD+ display with 240Hz refresh rate, for crisp visuals and smooth refresh rates. Disney has never looked so good! What’s more, this gaming laptop features an Intel Core i9-14900HX CPU and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 GPU, which will expertly manage your workloads and bring your games to life in photorealistic quality. Plus, with an NVMe SSD and 32GB DDR5 RAM, this laptop has a near-zero latency that only a fairy godmother can bestow! Bibbty-bobbity-booyah!
What’s more, the MSI Vector 17 HX is kept cool by Cooler Boost 5 technology. This thermal solution keeps your gaming laptop running at optimum temperature, thanks to six heat pipes and two fans working to minimise the heat and maximise the airflow.
Want to upgrade your racing sim set up, but don’t know where to start? We have a breakdown of the best racing wheels you can get from the Overclockers UK website all written up for you.
iRacing
Our final pick is the classic racing sim iRacing. If it’s used by esports professionals, then it has to be good, right? iRacing offers a range of different races to compete in, from NASCAR to Grand Prix. Whatever you and the squad are in the mood for! There are forty official series to race through, as well as over 150 cars and tracks to choose from. What’s more, with dynamic track surfaces that change over the course of your races, this game offers a true-to-life experience.
Having an online community is a core tenant of iRacing, so naturally you have plenty of options for your multiplayer gaming. You can create private sessions and host your own tournaments, either using existing series or creating your own! Plus, there are hundreds of existing leagues for you and the squad to join and compete in.
iRacing Official Specifications
Is your gaming PC ready for premier online racing or is a pit stop required?
| Component | Minimum Specs | Recommended Specs |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 / 10 64-bit | Windows 11 / 10 64-bit |
| CPU | 4 core CPU or better Intel Core i5-4430 Intel Core i5-2320 AMD FX-6300 AMD Ryzen 3 1200 | 8 core or more CPU Intel Core 9-10980XE @ 3.0GHz Intel Core i9-9900KS @ 4.0GHz AMD Ryzen 9 3900X AMD Ryzen 9 3950X |
| Memory | 16GB RAM | 32GB RAM |
| GPU | At least 2GB VRAM NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 2GB NVIDIA GTX 1050 ATI Radeon HD 7850 2GB AMD RX 550 | At least 8GB VRAM NVIDIA RTX 2080 Ti AMD Radeon VII |
| DirectX | Version 11 | Version 11 |
| Network | Broadband Internet connection | Broadband Internet connection |
| Storage | 16GB available space | 16GB available space |
OcUK Gaming Zirconium Configurable PC
Experience the road like never before, with the OcUK Gaming Zirconium. This gaming PC is equipped with an Intel Core i7-14700K CPU, sporting the innovative hybrid architecture. The core count is split into P- and E-cores, which are optimised for different workloads to keep your PC running efficiently. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 Super GPU harnesses the innovations of Ada Lovelace, NVIDIA’s latest graphics architecture with enhanced ray tracing and AI capabilities. Game in glorious detail! Oh, and you can bet there is high speed DDR5 RAM and SSD storage to keep things running smoothly.
The OcUK Gaming Zirconium is another gaming PC that can be configured. Customise the CPU, memory, graphics card, operating system, and install up to three lightning-fast SSDs. Any changes will affect the price.
Razer Barracuda Wireless Gaming Headset
Now, it wouldn’t be multiplayer gaming if we did not recommend a headset. This time, it is the stunning Razer Barracuda Wireless Gaming Headset in Mercury White. Sleek and stylish, this gaming headset offers SmartSwitch dual wireless connectivity, capable of connecting via Razer Hyperspeed Wireless and Bluetooth simultaneously. The SmartSwitch feature allows the headset to seamlessly shift between wireless modes as needed, so you never need worry about dropping from the call. Plus, this is on top of Razer TriForce Titanium 50mm drivers that produce clear and powerful sound, and a noise cancelling microphone for the utmost clarity. What more could you want from a headset?
Start Your Engines!
What are your go-to racing sim games to play with friends? Drop a comment below with your favourite racing sims for your very own Grand Prix.
PC specs are subject to change.
- 12 min read
Emily Haylock
Author
Emily is a board and cosy gamer, keyboard obsessive, and content copywriter for Overclockers UK. She has been with Overclockers UK since 2020, writing about everything from noblechairs to 8Pack PCs. She writes from within her desk nest with a foster pup at her feet. (What, a desk duvet is a totally normal thing!) In her downtime, she likes to play board games, farming sims, and old-school Final Fantasy. IX to be specific. It is the best, and that is a hill she will die on.
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