The best sports games for PlayStation, Xbox and PC

The best sports games to flex your skills on the field, pitch or even in the ring.

A photo of two people playing a football video game

by Isabel Martins |
Updated on

Whilst watching your favourite players compete and go toe-to-toe for the big win is incredibly entertaining, interpreting them and actually getting a slice of the action can be just as exciting!

They may not seem as riveting first-person-shooter games, but we think they're just as thrilling and pack plenty of action.

Sports games are a great way of tapping into your competitive side and diving into a whole world of various sports, whether it's basketball, racing, rallying, American football, or even golf - the choice is yours.

Another fantastic benefit of sports games is that whilst they're usually impeccably realistic, they allow you to mix in a world of fantasy - scoring the winning goal, placing first in the snowboarding world championship, beating Tiger Woods, or delivering the final blow that'll knock Connor McGregor out.

Plus, you can achieve all of this without ever having to leave the comfort of your own home. Because there are quite a few options, it can be slightly confusing when it comes to picking just one, that's why we've rounded up the best of the best sports games.

We've included a wide range of different games so that no matter what you're looking for, you'll find it in our roundup.

The best sports games

FIFA 2021 (Multi)

Developer: Electronic Arts | Publisher: EA | Released: October 2020 | Age Rating: 13+

Description

This is an essential game for any football fan, and it's pretty obvious to see why it made the top of our list. Not only does it have some of the best gameplay the series has seen, but it also has impressive new features such as Manager Mode and Virtual Pro, the latter allowing you to create your own Game Face on the web.

Gran Turismo: Sport (PS4)

Developer: Polyphony Digital | Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Released: October 2017 | Age Rating: 4+

Gran Turismo: Sport
Price: $24.95

Description

It may not have been immediately popular, but once updates were made and features were added, Gran Turismo: Sport became one of the most sought-after racing games. You're getting an incredible array of tracks and cars to choose from, paired with some outstanding graphics to help you become truly immersed in the game.

F1 2020 (Multi)

Developer: Codemasters | Publisher: Codemasters | Released: July 2020 | Age Rating: 1+

Description

With F1 2020, Codemasters has made significant upgrades to last year's instalment. The cars are a vast improvement on 2019's offering, with overhauled cornering, acceleration, and braking physics merging perfectly with the cars' complexity and power. The new My Team mode is a big addition this year, putting you in the boardroom and paddock, as well as the cockpit. It's a holistic game mode that should appeal in a big way to those who love all aspects of the F1 industry.

UFC 3 (Multi)

Developer: EA Vancouver | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Released: July 2020 | Age Rating: 13+

UFC 3
Price: $35.00

Description

It doesn't get more action-packed than UFC 3. This is truly an incredible simulation game, featuring RPM technology which makes the matches more fluid and realistic. It also allows you to completely customise your UFC fighter, and it features the G.O.A.T mode which allows you to design your own UFC story.

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 (Multi)

Developer: Vicarious Visions | Publisher: Activision | Released: August 2020 | Age Rating: 12+

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2

Rrp: $25.71

Price: $24.49

Description

An incredibly fun collective remake of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater and Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2. Even though this is an amalgamation of the two games, you'll still be getting the same features, including all of the levels, tricks, and pro skaters. Without a doubt, this is one of the best games of 2020.

NBA 2K21 (Multi)

Developer: 2K Games | Publisher: 2K Games | Released: September 2020 | Age Rating: 13+

NBA 2K21
Price: $17.50
Alternative retailers
Walmart$19.99View offer

Description

There's no doubt that NBA 2K11 is one of the best sports video games out there, so if you're a fan but need something a little more up to date with improved features and graphics, then NBA 2K21 is an excellent choice. You're now getting incredible next-generation graphics, as well as a new defensive system, a whole new range of different moves, and a full 360 degrees of player movement.

Steep (Multi)

Developer: Ubisoft Annecy | Publisher: Ubisoft | Released: December 2016 | Age Rating: 10+

Description

When it comes to winter sports, it doesn't get more thrilling than Steep. Fly down the mountains on a pair of skis or a snowboard, land your favourite tricks, or even participate in the competitions.

MLB The Show 21 (Multi)

Developer: San Diego Studio | Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Released: April 2021 | Age Rating: 10+

MLB The Show 21
Price: £49.99+

www.xbox.com

Description

The Major League Baseball video game series is one of the best in the franchise, but we've selected this version as it has many more features than previous instalments. You can now choose to be a hitter or a pitcher without the added hassle of having to create a new save file when switching between the two. MLB The Show 21 brings pristine and crystal clear visuals to the world of simulation games and is without a doubt one of, if not the best baseball game you can play.

Football Manager 2021 (Multi)

Developer: Sports Interactive | Publisher: Sega | Released: November 2020 | Age Rating: 3+

Description

With stunning visuals and incredible graphics, this simulation game is one of the best on the market. You're getting very smooth and fluid gameplay with a myriad of upgraded functions and brand-new features to help you be the best manager possible, whilst managing some of the world's best clubs. These include Team Talks, Press Conferences, Quick Chats, Gestures, In-Match Presentation and more.

PGA Tour 2K21 (Multi)

Developer: HB Studios | Publisher: 2K Games | Released: August 2020 | Age Rating: 10+

PGA Tour 2K21
Price: $20.95

Description

Build yourself from the ground up whilst refining your skills and eventually play against the pros, including Jim Furyk, and Patrick Cantlay. It also has a feature called MyPlayer, which actually lets you create your own golfer with an incredible amount of detail. This includes what you'll wear, as well as gender, name, height, weight as well as the club sets you will be using.

Golf With Your Friends (Multi)

Developer: Blacklight Interactive | Publisher: Blacklight Interactive | Released: January 2016 | Age Rating: 10+

Description

If the previous game is a little bit too serious for you and you prefer something a little bit more light-hearted, then Golf With Your Friends may just be the one for you. This sports game is very fun, casual, and pretty simple, it's ideal for anyone wanting a chilled-out game to just relax to.

Sports Party (Nintendo Switch)

Developer: Ubisoft | Publisher: Ubisoft | Released: July 2008 | Age Rating: 3+

Description

Another incredibly fun and laid-back game, Sports Party brings you a variety of exciting and different activities. Choose between Frisbee, Basketball, Golf, Jet Ski, Beach Tennis, or even Skateboarding. You'll be able to play each of the games in varying difficulties so you can perfect your craft. Soak up the sun, paddle in the sea or play a beach game, there are endless options for fun.

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games (Nintendo Switch)

Developer: Sega | Publisher: Nintendo | Released: November 2007 | Age Rating: 7+

Description

With vibrant colours and fluid gameplay, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games is incredibly entertaining. Have a go at winning the gold in the sport of your choice, be it Surfing, Karate, or even Sport Climbing. This sport game also gives you multiplayer options, with four people locally and up to eight people online.

Ring Fit Adventure (Nintendo Switch)

Developer: Nintendo | Publisher: Nintendo | Released: October 2019 | Age Rating: 7+

Ring Fit Adventure
Price: $79.64
Alternative retailers
Walmart$16.17View offer

Description

Another excellent switch game, Ring Fit Adventure manages to make exercise entertaining. By mixing goal focussed adventure gameplay with well-executed and accurately tracked exercises, they've succeeded in bringing out one of the best fitness games of all time. You'll complete cardio, strengthening, and yoga exercises to win battles and mini-games, following accurate guides and on-screen prompts and building up quite the sweat

Knockout City (Multi)

Developer: Electronic Arts | Publisher: Velan Studios | Released: May 2021 | Age Rating: 10+

Knockout City
Price: £13.49 +

www.ea.com

Description

A super casual and fun game that everyone can enjoy, Knockout City lets you play dodgeball in the form of a video game. It's a multiplayer competitive game so don't be surprised if you find yourself getting a little bit addicted to it.

Tennis World Tour 2 (Multi)

Developer: Breakpoint | Publisher: Nacon | Released: May 2018 | Age Rating: 3+

Tennis World Tour 2
Price: $37.10

Description

This game is designed for hardcore tennis fans, with a myriad of features that will help you reach plenty of wins and successes. You can choose to compete as one of the world's best players or create your own, unique tennis player. Career Mode is especially fun, as this lets you manage your team, equipment, season and even your sponsors!

Descenders (Multi)

Developer: RageSquid | Publisher: No More Robots | Released: February 2018 | Age Rating: 3+

Description

A very fast-paced and competitive game, Descenders is ideal for anyone wanting a fun, action video game. As it's a multiplayer game, you also have the option to speak to and interact with other players. Freeride down mountains, throw in an MTB Whip, and avoid obstacles in your way, all whilst trying to beat your best possible time.

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Isabel Martins is a Commercial Content Writer for What's The Best, specialising in technology.

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