Six Racing Games to Anticipate in 2024
As the New Year unfolds, so do our gaming resolutions, or lack thereof. Despite our annual promises to reduce the hours spent immersed in the virtual world of racing video games, 2024 seems determined to put those resolutions to the ultimate test. With promises of realistic simulations, off-road adventures, and a long-awaited sequel, the racing game landscape in the coming year looks incredibly promising. Let's dive into the six racing games that have captured our attention and fueled our anticipation for the year ahead.
Le Mans Ultimate (Release Date: February 20th):
After more than two decades, Le Mans Ultimate is set to bring the excitement of the world's most famous endurance race to our screens in 2024. Timed perfectly with the resurgence of sportscar racing, the game boasts the powerful technology behind rFactor 2, a renowned simulation platform. Offering an immersive experience, Le Mans Ultimate covers the entire World Endurance Championship season, ensuring diverse challenges beyond the iconic Le Mans circuit. For those intimidated by a 24-hour race, an asynchronous mode provides flexibility without compromising the thrill.
Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown (Release Date: TBA 2024):
Despite being a consistent tease in previous years, Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown holds the promise of finally gracing us with its presence in 2024. The anticipation has only grown as the developers assure fans that the delays were invested in polishing the game to perfection. With a one-to-one scale Hong Kong playground and an array of supercars, the sequel aims to recapture the magic of its predecessor, a true pioneer in seamless open-world racing.
Assetto Corsa 2 (Release Date: Summer 2024):
Shrouded in secrecy, Assetto Corsa 2 is the talk of the town, even without a single official image released. Following the success of Assetto Corsa Competizione, expectations are high for the upcoming sequel. While details are scarce, fans are hopeful for the return of road cars, reminiscing about the joy of racing classic cars in the original game. With a thriving online community still enjoying the first instalment, the prospect of a proper sequel has enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the summer of 2024.
Hot Lap Racing (Release Date: TBA 2024):
Overcoming its somewhat contradictory title, Hot Lap Racing is poised to make a mark in the racing game arena. Despite a modest budget, this 'simcade' title aims to deliver real cars and circuits spanning the history of motorsport. From a 60s Ford GT40 to Mygale F3 and F4 chassis, the game promises a diverse experience. Intriguingly, most of the visuals take place at sunset, hinting at a potential apocalyptic future – a detail we'll be keeping a close eye on.
Expeditions: A Mud Runner Game (Release Date: March 5th):
Combining the thrill of off-road driving with scientific exploration, Expeditions takes the Mudrunner formula to new heights. As you navigate specialised off-road vehicles, you'll deploy advanced technology like drones and metal detectors for research objectives in the wilderness. Known for its impressive off-road physics, the Mudrunner series has consistently turned slow-paced off-road driving into an entertaining gaming experience, and we expect nothing less from Expeditions.
GTRevival (Release Date: To Be Announced in 2024):
Embarking on ambitious territory, GTRevival aims to harness artificial intelligence for context-sensitive commentary and pit crew audio. Developed by the core team behind the Project CARS series, the game seeks to revive the motorsport magic of the mid-2000s with classic FIA GT1 cars and modern GT3 machinery. While the release timeline might be uncertain, the potential for GTRevival to become an instant classic is undeniable.
As the year progresses, racing game enthusiasts will have their hands full with an array of titles that promise innovation, realism, and a nostalgic nod to the classics. Whether you're a fan of endurance races, open-world exploration, or off-road adventures, 2024 is shaping up to be a thrilling year for virtual racing aficionados. Buckle up, gamers – it's going to be a fast-paced ride!