Some kids are born ready to grab a wheel to hop in the next best kart. If your children love racing just as much, check out some kid-friendly games that they can play together with you or on their own.
Photo credit: Microsoft
Is your child already a motorsports maniac? There is an easy way to support their passion or maybe spark that flame when it comes to fast cars: playing racing games. But we don’t want to give them cheaply made phone games for kids that are plastered with ads. Real simulators on the other hand can be way too overwhelming and complex. Luckily, there are top titles that you and your children can enjoy together on consoles and PC.
Mario Kart
The classic title to kick things off is Mario Kart. There are countless editions available for various consoles. The newest game was released in 2017 for the Nintendo Switch. It is completely suitable for children, but with the scaling levels of difficulty, parents can enjoy driving it just as much. Players can choose between various characters from the Mario universe and a range of colourful different cars, tyres and gliders that can be combined. All circuits are super playful with crazy obstacles and creative surroundings, from a haunted house to tropical islands to a candy canyon and the iconic rainbow road.
Cars 3: Driven to win
If there is one franchise that really targets kids and their interest in fast things, it’s Cars. The movie franchise developed such hype, that countless types of merchandise followed quickly. Naturally, there is also a racing game and if your little ones enjoyed the film, they will surely love driving as their favourite characters. The game Cars 3: Driven to win was released in 2017 for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 3 and 4, Wii U, Xbox 360 and Xbox. Players can not only play standard races, but also test different modes such as a stunt show or takedown.
Forza Horizon 4
Forza Horizon 4 might not be specifically designed for children, but they will certainly have a great time playing the game. The main content is set in an open world environment where you can compete in various races, explore the area and unlock further vehicles. This entry is the most realistic and life-like when it comes to graphics and physics, while of course it is far from being a simulation. On top of the base game, there is also a Lego DLC available called Lego Speed Champions. The add-on features additional Lego cars and a map build from Lego bricks. Forza Horizon 4 is available for Xbox One, Xbox Series and PC.
Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled
Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled is a great choice for kids as well. The new generation might not have grown up with the iconic mammal, but the racing spin-off still is a great and fun game to test. Similar to Mario Kart, players can choose from a range of characters from the franchise and have to race around crazy circuits with power-ups and obstacles. You can play the game on the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
DIRT 5
While DIRT 5 is another title that is enjoyed by adults, you can also hand over the controller to your young ones. The game has simple controls, is easy to understand and you can even tackle the campaign in co-op mode. If your child is still very young, the Playgrounds feature where you build your own circuits might be a little bit too complicated to try alone. But you can also create your own simple playground together with your kids. DIRT 5 is available on PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series and PlayStation 4 and 5.
What other racing games would you recommend for kids? Tell us on Twitter at @OverTake_gg or in the comments down below!