Racing games have always been thrilling, but Mac users often missed out—until now. With the power of the M1 chip, Mac gaming has hit top speed. Whether you’re on an Intel or M1 Mac, I’ve got the best racing games for 2024 lined up for you. From realistic simulators to arcade-style fun, these picks will have you on the edge of your seat.
Tried and Tested ✅: The methods and steps mentioned in this article have been tried and tested firsthand by Ojash Yadav on his MacBook Pro M3 and rechecked for errors on Hashir’s MacBook Air M2.
Best Racing Games for Mac in 2024
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Here’s a quick list of the best racing games for Mac:
Each of these games offers something unique, whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore racing enthusiast. Let’s explore into the details to find your next favorite:
1. DiRT 4
DiRT 4 System Requirements
| Specifications | Minimum Requirements | Supported Mac Models |
| OS | macOS 10.14.2 | – 13″ Retina MacBook Pros (since 2016) – 15″ MacBook Pros with a 1GB graphics card or better (since Mid 2012) – 21.5″ iMacs with a 1.8GHz i5 processor or better (since Late 2013) – 27″ iMacs and iMacs Pros (since Late 2013) – All Mac Pros (since Late 2013) – All Mac minis (since 2018) – Late 2012 models with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 675MX or 680MX graphics card |
| Processor | 1.8Ghz Intel Core i5 | |
| Graphics | 1GB NVIDIA GeForce GT 650M, 2GB AMD Radeon R9 M290, Intel Iris Pro 5200 or better | |
| Memory | 8GB RAM | |
| Storage | 38GB available space |
If you’re into rally racing, DiRT 4 is a must-play. It mixes arcade-style fun with just enough realism to keep things interesting. What I love most is the Your Stage feature, where you can create your own tracks—it’s like having endless new races to explore.
Why I Loved It:
- Custom Tracks: Designing my own racing stages is pure fun.
- Balanced Gameplay: It’s easy to start but gets challenging as you go.
- Immersive Feel: The graphics and music keep your adrenaline pumping.
Downsides:
- Multiplayer isn’t very active.
- Hardcore simulation fans might want something more realistic.
Play This If: You’re new to racing games or love a mix of strategy and speed.
2. F1 2017
F1 2017 System Requirements
| Specifications | Minimum Requirements | Supported Mac Models |
| OS | macOS 10.12.5 | – 13″ MacBook Pros (since Late 2016) – 15″ MacBook Pros (since Late 2016) – 21.5″ iMacs with 2.0GHz CPU or better (since Late 2015) – 27″ iMacs (since Late 2014) – All Mac Pros (since Late 2013) |
| Processor | 2.0 GHz Intel Core i5 | |
| Graphics | 2 GB AMD R9 M290, 1.5 GB Intel Iris Pro 6200 | |
| Memory | 8GB RAM | |
| Storage | 36GB available space |
If you’ve ever dreamed of speeding around famous Formula 1 tracks, F1 2017 is for you. It’s not just about racing; you’re also managing pit stops and tweaking your car’s performance. I loved the career mode, which kept me hooked for weeks.
Why I Loved It:
- Deep Customization: Fine-tuning my car gave me a sense of control.
- Long Career Mode: It’s like living a full F1 driver’s life.
- Multiplayer Fun: Racing with friends across platforms is a blast.
Downsides:
- Demanding on your Mac—make sure it’s powerful enough.
- Can feel overwhelming if you’re not into F1.
Play This If: You’re an F1 fan or enjoy games with both strategy and action.
3. Art of Rally
Art of Rally System Requirements
| Specifications | Minimum Requirements | Supported Mac Models |
| OS | macOS 10.12.5 | MacBook Pro or iMac |
| Processor | 2.0 GHz Intel Core i5 | |
| Graphics | 2 GB AMD R9 M290, 1.5 GB Intel Iris Pro 6200 | |
| Memory | 8GB RAM | |
| Storage | 36GB available space |
This one surprised me. Art of Rally doesn’t try to be hyper-realistic. Instead, it’s beautifully simple, with a Zen-like vibe. Driving classic rally cars across stunning, minimalistic landscapes feels refreshing. It’s challenging, though—don’t expect to win without some practice.
Why I Loved It:
- Relaxing Yet Fun: The visuals are calming, even during intense races.
- Nostalgic Cars: Driving vintage rally cars feels special.
- Smooth Gameplay: Runs perfectly on both Intel and M1 Macs.
Downsides:
- No multiplayer mode.
- Overhead camera angles can make sharp turns tricky.
Play This If: You want something different from the usual racing games.
4. Dirt Rally
Dirt Rally System Requirements
| Specifications | Minimum Requirements | Supported Mac Models |
| OS | macOS 10.13 | – All MacBook Airs with a 1.6 GHz i5 Processor or better (since Mid 2012) – All 13″ MacBook Pros (since mid-2012) – All 15″ MacBook Pros with a 1GB graphics card or better (since mid-2012) – All Mac Minis (since late 2012) – All 21.5″ iMacs (since late 2013) – All 27″ iMacs with a 1GB graphics card or better (since late 2012) – All Mac Pros with an AMD 7950 (Mac Edition) (since Mid 2010) |
| Processor | 1.8GHz Intel Core i3 | |
| Graphics | 1GB Nvidia 650M / 2GB AMD Radeon M290 / Intel HD 4000 graphics card or better | |
| Memory | 8GB RAM | |
| Storage | 48GB available space |
Dirt Rally is the game that made me realize I’m not as good at racing as I thought. It’s tough, but that’s what makes it so rewarding. Whether you’re sliding through rain-soaked forests or climbing steep hills, every race feels like an adventure.
Why I Loved It:
- Realistic Controls: Every turn and skid feels lifelike.
- Varied Tracks: From Greece to Norway, the challenges never get old.
- Intense Gameplay: It keeps you on your toes with tough conditions.
Downsides:
- The learning curve is steep.
- You’ll need a controller for the best experience.
Play This If: You’re up for a challenge and love rally racing.
5. Warped Kart Racers
Warped Kart Racers System Requirements
| Specifications | Minimum Requirements | Supported Mac Models |
| OS | macOS 12.0 | All MacBook models that can run macOS 12.0 or later |
| Processor | – | |
| Graphics | – | |
| Memory | – | |
| Storage | 920MB available space |
This game is pure fun. It’s like Mario Kart but made for Mac. The colorful tracks and quirky characters kept me entertained for hours. My favorite track? Cosmic Rainbow—it’s like racing through a neon disco.
Why I Loved It:
- Easy to Learn: I got the hang of it in minutes.
- Multiplayer Action: Competing with friends is so much fun.
- Vibrant Visuals: The tracks are eye candy.
Downsides:
- The tracks can feel repetitive after a while.
- Occasionally lags in multiplayer.
Play This If: You’re looking for a lighthearted racing game to enjoy with friends.
6. Gravel
Gravel System Requirements
| Specifications | Minimum Requirements | Supported Mac Models |
| OS | macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) or later | Metal 2-capable Macs |
| Processor | Intel Core i5 or better | |
| Graphics | Metal 2 compatible with 4GB VRAM | |
| Memory | 8GB RAM | |
| Storage | 15GB available space |
Gravel is all about high-energy, off-road racing. I loved switching between modes like Wild Rush and Cross Country, each offering a different kind of thrill. It’s not overly complicated, so you can jump in and start having fun right away.
Why I Loved It:
- Exciting Tracks: From muddy forests to sandy deserts, every race feels fresh.
- Beginner-Friendly: Easy to play but still exciting.
- Great Graphics: It’s visually stunning, especially on newer Macs.
Downsides:
- Needs a powerful Mac to run smoothly.
- The in-game promotions can get annoying.
Play This If: You enjoy off-road racing and want a mix of fun and competition.
7. Absolute Drift
Absolute Drift System Requirements
| Specifications | Minimum Requirements | Supported Mac Models |
| OS | OSX 10.0+ (64-bit Systems Only) | MacBook Pro or iMac |
| Processor | 2.2GHz Dual Core | |
| Graphics | 512 MB RAM | |
| Memory | 2GB RAM | |
| Storage | 350MB available space |
Drifting isn’t easy, and Absolute Drift makes sure you know that. But once you get the hang of it, it’s incredibly satisfying. The minimalist design and open-world maps give it a unique charm.
Why I Loved It:
- Challenging but Rewarding: Nailing a perfect drift feels amazing.
- Exploration: Drifting through open-world maps keeps things interesting.
- Optimized for Mac: Works flawlessly on both M1 and Intel machines.
Downsides:
- Steep learning curve, especially for beginners.
- Limited variety in the soundtrack.
Play This If: You’re into drifting or love games that test your skills.
8. FlatOut 2
FlatOut 2 System Requirements
| Specifications | Minimum Requirements | Supported Mac Models |
| OS | macOS 10.6.8 | – Via Parallels on all Macs – Via Boot Camp on Intel Macs only |
| Processor | Intel | |
| Graphics | Nvidia GeForce 7300, ATI Radeon X1600, Intel GMA X3100, 128 MB of VRAM | |
| Memory | 512MB RAM | |
| Storage | 4GB available space |
FlatOut 2 is chaos in the best way possible. It’s an old-school arcade racer where smashing into things is just as important as finishing first. The mini-games and destruction derby modes are ridiculously fun.
Why I Loved It:
- Pure Mayhem: It’s all about crashing, smashing, and having a blast.
- Variety: With 34 cars and multiple game modes, it never gets boring.
- Nostalgic Feel: It’s a throwback to simpler gaming days.
Downsides:
- The graphics are dated.
- Controls can feel clunky at times.
Play This If: You love chaotic, over-the-top racing action.
Play the Best Racing Games on Your Mac
The world of racing games on Mac is more exciting than ever. From intense rally races to retro arcade fun, there’s something for every gamer. Ready to race? These top picks for 2024 will get your adrenaline pumping.
Here are a few tips to make your Mac gaming even better:
- If you’re wondering whether your MacBook is good for gaming, the short answer is yes. If you have a MacBook with M1 or M2 chip, it can easily run racing games.
- If you want to play seamlessly on your system, make sure to optimize your Mac for gaming.
- Mac keyboard shortcuts can significantly enhance your gaming experience. So, learn the common keyboard shortcuts and play like a pro.
