Turn on your monitor and grab your controller, because today we're diving into the exhilarating world of driving franchises that have fuelled the passion of countless petrol-heads in the gaming world.

From high-speed pursuits to realistic simulations and off-road adventures, these games have captured the hearts of gamers and car enthusiasts alike for decades.

As we strengthen our own move into this field with our new selection of Racing Simulator Experiences, let's go on a journey through some of the most beloved franchises in the gaming world.

• Need for Speed: Where Speed Meets Style

When it comes to adrenaline-pumping street racing and heart-thumping chases, Need for Speed takes the pole position in our opinion. This iconic franchise has been around since the early days of gaming back in 1994, offering a thrilling blend of high-speed action and car customisation.

From dodging the police in Need for Speed Hot Pursuit, to outmanoeuvring pimped up supercars in the Need for Speed: Underground series, the franchise never fails to deliver, and we are sure everyone has their own favourite release from this consistent game!

• Forza: The Ultimate Driving Experience

If you're a true petrol-head seeking a realistic driving simulation, you know to look no further than Forza. This acclaimed franchise offers an unparalleled experience in the world of motorsport.

Whether you're conquering the tracks in Forza Motorsport or exploring vast open worlds in Forza Horizon, we love how you'll find yourself immersed in stunning graphics, meticulously detailed cars, and a physics engine that makes every turn feel authentic. This franchise gets our vote for the most realistic of the lot.

• Gran Turismo: The Art of Racing

While Forza may only be available for Microsoft gamers, Gran Turismo is Sony's offering for its PlayStation cohort. Gran Turismo has long been synonymous with racing games since its release in 1997.

With a focus on delivering unbridled precision and authenticity, this franchise became a staple for both casual players and hardcore racing enthusiasts, boasting an extensive line-up of meticulously recreated cars and an impressive array of real-world tracks. Gran Turismo captures the essence of motorsport in a visually stunning and immersive manner.

• DiRT: Unleash Your Inner Off-Road Enthusiast

For those who crave that thrill of off-road racing and rally events, DiRT is the ultimate playground. We found it hard to consider our off-road option, as the Colin McRae rally games were so memorable back when we were young and have a sentimental place in our hearts.

However, the DiRT franchise by Codemasters lets you experience the excitement of mud-splattered tracks, intense jumps, and hairpin turns in a more modern world – so we had to go with the times on this one. With a range of off-road vehicles at your disposal and dynamic weather conditions that keep you on your toes, DiRT offers a heart pounding off-road experience that rally heads love!

• F1: Get in the Driver's Seat of Formula One

The official F1 video game franchise allows you to live out your F1 fantasies without having to put your body through the real G-Forces these racing heroes go through.

Featuring all the teams, drivers, and circuits from the real-world championship, F1 games provide an authentic and immersive racing experience which even the racers themselves dive into when they're doing some training.

From mastering the art of overtaking to managing tyre strategies, you'll feel the adrenaline rush as you compete in the pinnacle of motorsport, brushing shoulders with the greats.

So, there you have it, a joyride through some of the most beloved driving franchises that have left an indelible mark on the gaming world. Whether you prefer the thrill of illegal street racing in Need for Speed, the realism and precision of Forza and Gran Turismo, the off-road adventures of DiRT, or the high-speed action of F1, these franchises have something to offer every true petrol-head.

For those looking to get off the sofa and experience the next step-up from gaming from your couch, visit TrackDays.co.uk and check out our newly added Racing Simulator Driving Experiences, available to book from open Gift Vouchers at a wide selection of UK venues.