Fans of the cutthroat chaos of demolition derby video games can rejoice. This month, PlayStation released Destruction AllStars, a new entry in the long-forgotten genre for free to all PlayStation Plus subscribers. The game melds sleek traversal controls with intense vehicle combat that is addictive. Those new to this type of game may be eager to leap into the medium.
Because PlayStation 5s are in such short supply, those interested in the series may seek alternatives to hold them over until they can grab a PS5 of their own. Whatever the reason, those interested in wild games featuring racing, destruction, and parkour need look no further. Check out the following games if Destruction AllStars interests you, and you’re sure to have an amazing time.
10 Twisted Metal
Twisted Metal is often lauded as PlayStation’s original demolition derby. Those interested in a more adult experience within the genre can check out the PS3 reboot of the popular franchise. While Destruction AllStars inhabits an arena with adoring fans, Twisted Metal populates town streets.
Much like Lucid’s new game, players can face off against each other online. Fans of the series haven’t seen an entry since February 14, 2012. Hopefully, Destruction AllStars’ popularity will revitalize this underappreciated genre, and fans will soon see a new entry.
9 Sunset Overdrive
Those aiming to emulate the addictive parkour experience afforded to AllStars on foot have several options available to them. Xbox and PC players can check out Sunset Overdrive. This once-Xbox exclusive offers traversal is akin to Destruction AllStars, where characters must run, grind, slide, and shoot their way through crowds of infected enemies with a cartoony backdrop.
If this game had to be compared to a PlayStation Title, it’s almost like Ratchet & Clank and even comes from the same developers, Insomniac. Those who love humor, wild weapons, and stylistic art will fall in love with this gem.
8 Dying Light
Those open to a more serious parkour experience can check out Dying Light, a game where the undead hunt players within a dilapidated town. The darker it gets, the more dangerous they become. Players will have to traverse an increasingly dangerous hellscape on their way through the game.
With ‘The Following’ expansion and a sequel on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to jump into this game from the mid-2010s, especially for those looking for a game far below retail price. Fans on almost every platform can engross themselves in Dying Light, as it can be played on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation. Just make sure that you’re ready for a suspenseful and, at times, nerve-wracking parkour experience.
7 Crazy Taxi
Those looking for a game with quick and addictive sessions will love ‘Crazy Taxi.’ This relic of the late-90s tasks players with taking passengers across town as quickly as possible, wracking up points for speeding across the city. Players continue the process until time has expired, banking what points they’ve garnered up to that point. This is an excellent experience for those keen on earning high scores and competing against friends.
6 Forza Horizon 4
Those looking for an open-world to experience behind the wheel will love Forza Horizon 4. This Microsoft Studios title offers some of the most immersive driving in all of gaming. Players can race on tracks or ride around the map exploring with friends with an extensive collection of cars to take control of. Xbox and PC players can enjoy this title, taking in the beautiful visuals and exceptional controls.
5 Split Second
If a more streamlined racing experience is preferential, Split Second is a great option. In Split Second, players can influence their surroundings to impede other racers, wrecking them to gain an edge. This makes for intense and unpredictable action in every circuit.
This arcade racing game was released in 2009 and unfortunately received little attention. While the game is still available on Steam today, it may be hard to find others to play with, so consider grabbing a few friends to join in should you find this game enticing.
4 Titanfall 2
Another criminally underrated game that melds parkour and vehicle combat is the Titanfall franchise. Players must master combat both in and out of colossal mechs known as Titans to take down other players online. Like Destruction AllStars, Titanfall 2 characters need to use traversal to weave in and out of the way of vehicles. Only those who master gunplay on foot and in mechs will truly thrive in this online ecosystem. Of the games on this list, Titanfall boasts the most similarities to Destruction AllStars’ hybrid gameplay.
3 Mirror’s Edge
2 Rocket League
Few games can compete with the over-the-top nature of Destruction AllStars, but Rocket League is one game that offers insanity on a comparable level. Here, rocket-powered cars compete to see who can score the most goals before time expires. This insane take on soccer is entirely free-to-play and cross-platform. No matter where friends play, they can take to the field together, boosting and banking shots into oversized goals with hectic gameplay.
1 Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled
When talking about insane video-game characters, it’s hard to forget the wacky marsupial, Crash Bandicoot. Originally a PlayStation mascot, Crash Bandicoot rose to recognition with his platformers but capitalized on his fame with other games such as Crash Team Racing. In 2019, Activision and Beenox remade the classic, creating Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled, this hectic cart racer sees the faces of the Crash franchise race while using items to stop their rivals much like in Mario Kart. Unlike Mario Kart, however, every modern platform houses this title.
