8 Best PS2 Racing Games to Play in 2025

Racing games on the PlayStation 2 usually offer an exhilarating gaming experience. Well, that’s because if you’re not evading the cops, then you’re probably trying to increase the gap between you and your opponent.

On the PlayStation 2, there are plenty of racing games that have captured the hearts of many players. From arcade racing to open-world and drag racing titles, the PS2 is home to some popular releases. What if you’re new to the racing category on PlayStation 2 and you need some recommendations?

Rather than downloading different games or having to waste time on one, there’s a better way. There are some PS2 racing titles out there and diving right into them might save you a lot of time. If you need the best PS2 racing games to play right now, here’s an article that has you covered.

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List of The Best PS2 Racing Games to Play Right Now

From the list of games below, you’ll discover car racing games, bike racing games, off-road and a lot more.

1. Midnight Club 3: Dub Edition

Ratting 4.3

Graphics85%

Sound90%

Gameplay88%

Story70%

If you want to get started playing car racing games, one of the best options for you is Midnight Club 3: Dub Edition. It’s a popular title that offers players a space to race, and customize cars and bikes anyhow they like. With a vast selection of vehicles and endless customization options, the game offers a unique racing experience.

One of the reasons why Midnight Club 3: Dub Edition makes sense is due to its open-world gameplay. In this game, players can explore different cities, including Detroit, Atlanta, and San Diego, making each race feel fresh and exciting. Also, you’ll be able to play game modes like career mode, challenge, tournaments and much more on Midnight Club 3.

2. Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec

Ratting 4.5

Graphics95%

Sound92%

Gameplay90%

Story65%

One of the best-selling PlayStation 2 games of all time is Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec. It’s known for its realistic driving mechanics and a vast collection of cars. With over 180 vehicles from various manufacturers, players can experience the thrill of driving different cars on a wide range of tracks.

When it comes to realistic graphics, Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec has one of the best. The game offers several modes, including Arcade, Simulation, and Time Trial. In the Simulation mode, players can participate in a career where they start with a basic car and work their way up by earning credits through races.

3. Need for Speed: Underground 2

Ratting 3.8

Graphics88%

Sound89%

Gameplay85%

Story75%

As one of the known titles from the Need for Speed series, Underground 2 is an amazing car racing game that shouldn’t be missed. It’s the perfect game for those who enjoy open-world gameplay with a touch of street racing. The whole racing took place in the city of Bayview and there are loads of races to play.

Need for Speed: Underground 2 is known for its intensity, relaxing and electrifying soundtracks, unique driving mechanics and much more. Furthermore, it features plenty of cars, game modes that’ll test driving skills and much more.

4. Burnout 2: Point of Impact

Ratting 4.4

Graphics82%

Sound80%

Gameplay87%

Story60%

Car racing gameplay doesn’t make sense on PS2 without the likes of Burnout 2: Point of Impact. You’re looking at a game known for its high-speed crashes and adrenaline-pumping races. Most times, the gameplay is the aggressive driving one and that’s what made it a fan-favourite.

Burnout 2: Point of Impact does make sense to play and the features and game modes speak highly of it. One of its cool features is the Crash mode. It’s a mode where players get to inflict more damage on each other. Whether you’re playing multiplayer or single-player, you’ll surely enjoy it.

5. Downhill Domination

Ratting 4.1

Graphics78%

Sound75%

Gameplay80%

Story55%

Downhill Domination isn’t a car racing game but its bike-racing gameplay has earned it a spot on the list. It offers a unique twist on the racing genre with its focus on mountain biking. Players race down steep and treacherous mountains, using a combination of speed, skill, and aggression to reach the finish line.

Unlike other racing games, Downhill Domination offers cool features that make racing better. You can throw bottles at opponents, you can also kick and knock them off their bikes. Players can explore different bikes and riders, apply upgrades, unlock racing tracks and much more.

6. MotorStorm: Arctic Edge

Ratting 4.5

Graphics86%

Sound80%

Gameplay86%

Story54%

From topping the spot as one of the best racing games on PSP, MotorStorm: Arctic Edge also has a rank on the PlayStation 2 console. You’re looking at a racing game that features the icy terrain of the Arctic. Unlike other games where it’s just racing in streets and cities, MotorStorm: Arctic Edge is quite different.

In this one, players can explore different vehicle types from bikes, ATVs, snowmobiles, and trucks, each with their strengths and weaknesses. The game’s tracks are filled with obstacles, shortcuts, and destructible environments, making each race unpredictable and exciting.

7. XGIII: Extreme G Racing

Ratting 3.8

Graphics80%

Sound77%

Gameplay82%

Story50%

Similar to Downhill Domination, XGIII: Extreme G Racing offers something similar. However, there are certain differences because this game is a futuristic racing game. In XGIII: Extreme G Racing, players will be controlling high-speed bikes on gravity-defying tracks.

XGIII: Extreme G Racing is highly recommended because of its fast-paced action and intense races. In terms of game modes, there are multiple options for users to explore. Different bikes and racing tracks can also be unlocked. Lastly, it’s game modes will keep you glued to your screen.

8. Crash Nitro Kart

Ratting 4.2

Graphics79%

Sound81%

Gameplay78%

Story65%

Another popular racing game is Crash Nitro Kart and it’s a fun racing game that kept us engaged years back. Most PS2 gamers played this game due to its engaging and fast-paced gameplay. With the likes of Crash Bandicoot being present in the game, it offered a lot of fun that lasted for centuries.

Crash Nitro Kart features unique characters, a vast collection of karts and racing tracks. The game’s tracks are filled with obstacles, shortcuts, and power-ups, making each race exciting and unpredictable. Its game modes are engaging, which makes it an amazing racing game.

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Conclusion

When it comes to choosing racing games on the PlayStation 2, you’ll surely find plenty of titles online. However, none comes close to the ones mentioned above. Even after decades, a lot of PS2 gamers are still enjoying these car racing titles.

For more guides, PS2 Bios, reviews, and everything you need to elevate your PlayStation 2 experience, Bookmark our website psbios.com. Stay connected for the latest in PS2 gaming and beyond!