Usually, when you play a racing game, it leans one of two ways. It’s either a full blown arcade fest where you race for the finish line in a winner-take-all scenario; or it’s a simulation, where the game moves at a more natural, but still, exciting pace as you compete for victory. But sometimes you get a game that seamlessly blends the two, and with pretty good effect. That’s what Original Fire Games’ iRacing Arcade does, to a certain effect.
You get behind the wheel of a racing car of choice (I prefer the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup) and then compete in races. You can go online, take on the best leaderboards, or just take part in the campaign. Whatever you do, it’s about going fast and scoring the victory.
The racing itself is very good, except in some of the faster cars. With these, it can be tricky to master cornering. Still, the sensation of speed can’t be matched, so some folks may take that chance. I just wish the campaign offered more variety, or, at the very least, better personality with rivals. At least the online stuff will keep you busy. The presentation is good, too.
The game lacks the finesse of the amazing Forza Horizon 6, which I definitely prefer. But for an indie project with a reasonable price and a relatively smaller development team, iRacing Arcade does have something to offer. It’s recommended for those looking for a simplified racing experience – but for some, it might be too basic.
iRacing Arcade Puts the Pedal To the Metal
In the game, you’ll be able to compete with some of the best racing vehicles in motorsport. There are plenty that will take you all around the world, including some sweet licensed rides – like the aforementioned Porsche 911 that revs me up a certain way. There’s a lot of competition here, including a nice online wrinkle that has a pretty stable community.
That said, let’s talk about the handling. On some of the starter cars, it’s excellent. I had no trouble with cornering with these babies, and the speed level was just about right when it came to keeping up with others. However, the game does go a little oft-kilter when it comes to faster cars. They’re trickier to handle, like a stick of butter sliding around in a hot pan. They’re stylish, so some of you may see the risk; but they definitely take some practice.
The game gives you a lot to do with the global leaderboards, as well as online play. It was fairly easy to get into a session, but don’t be surprised if you get into a wreck or two. There’s also a campaign, but it’s mostly “samesies” sort of stuff, with very little personality to make it stand out. Especially when compared to the bonkers approach that GRiD Legendstook on the Nintendo Switch 2 a little while ago.
At least the ability to create your own racing community is a nice touch. Here, you can save up your money, purchase buildings, and create a brand out of your own imagination. It’s a nice touch and adds distinction to the game.
iRacing Arcade isn’t bad, but it’s missing certain things – balance with faster cars, a better campaign – to make it a true competitor. Still, racing fans looking for new track to cover probably won’t mind it. Just approach with patience.
How Revved Up Is iRacing Arcade’s Presentation?
Next, let’s get to how iRacing Arcade is built. I think the game looks pretty good, with great car models and a variety of wondrous tracks to burn rubber on. It also has performance stuff you can balance, in case you prefer general speed or a little more detail. And yes, it looks pretty good on Steam Deck, provided you tweak a few things here and there. Nothing major.
The music doesn’t really pop for me, though. There are good racing tracks here, but it lacks that certain something to elevate your heart race during a match. The sound effects, though, are on the money, with some authentically captured engine noises.
Should You Hit the Gas With iRacing Arcade?
The competition is fierce right now in the racing market, so I can see what iRacing Arcade has to go up against. That said, it’s missing a few things that keep it from being a true contender, namely with faster car handling and a more inventive campaign. But there’s more than enough for racing fans to indulge in here, especially online. And dang it, some of these cars are pretty nice.
It’s definitely worth your time if you don’t mind an investment. On the outside it may show some wear, but its heart is definitely in the right place.
GAMERHUB RATING: 3.5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to iRacing for providing us with a review code! iRacing Arcade is available now for Steam/Steam Deck!
