Every year, the sports and racing game genre often sees the skies dominated by annual releases, capturing the spotlight simply because they are sometimes the only options available. However, 2025 painted a different picture, bringing us a fresh breeze of creativity and competition. Let’s dive into our top choices for 2025’s best in sports and racing games.
Mario Kart World: A New Horizon
Mario Kart World marked a revolutionary step for the franchise, being the first new game since Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U. Released exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2, the game introduced players to an open world full of collectibles, mini-challenges, and the ability to navigate between tracks without the interruption of loading screens. This innovative approach allowed gamers to experience the series in a whole new light, with added mechanics akin to a Tony Hawk game, incorporating grindrails and tricks. Mario Kart World stood out not just for its bold new direction, but also for challenging players with the question of value at an $80 price tag.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4: A Nostalgic Ride
Activision’s Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, developed by Iron Galaxy, completed the remastering journey of the iconic skating series. With a mix of nostalgia and modern flair, the game succeeded in capturing the original fun while adding new elements. Though not a straightforward remaster, the game offers a compelling escape for fans of the series. For anyone seeking to relive golden gaming moments, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 serves as a delightful trip down memory lane, with the classic gameplay maintaining its charm over the years.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds & Other Highlights
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds joined the kart racing fray with style, offering a high-speed alternative to Mario Kart World. It adhered to classic racing principles, focusing on refining its gameplay for an exhilarating experience. Meanwhile, EA Sports’ F1 25 continued to thrive on its established formula while Rematch introduced a refreshing take on arcade football, despite facing some initial challenges. Even with these hurdles, the game stood out for its tight mechanics and engaging gameplay.
These games, alongside other noteworthy mentions, shaped 2025 into a memorable year for sports and racing enthusiasts.