iRacing Studios Develops New INDYCAR Game For PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC

After years of speculation and silence surrounding INDYCAR's future in the gaming world, the news is finally official: an all-new standalone INDYCAR game will be released in the second half of 2026. iRacing Studios has been granted a long-term licence by INDYCAR to develop and release the game on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC as well as the Steam Deck. The project marks a major milestone in the return of this iconic racing class to the digital realm, and promises to be a unique experience for both sim racers and console gamers worldwide.

A milestone: first official INDYCAR game since 2005

It has been almost 20 years since Codemasters released the last full-fledged INDYCAR title. Since then, fans had to make do with mods or limited integrations into other racing games. The new collaboration between INDYCAR and iRacing Studios marks a fresh start for the iconic American racing class in the gaming world. This collaboration stems from a growing need for high-quality motorsport titles with authenticity and experience at their core.

For many fans, this is a long-awaited moment. For years, the absence of an official game led to frustration and missed opportunities for INDYCAR to raise its digital profile. With this announcement, the organisation is showing that it is seriously investing in its presence within the gaming industry.

Built on the Orontes Engine - not a copy, but its own game

Unlike previous simulation projects of iRacing, the INDYCAR game will not be built on the traditional iRacing engine, but on the Orontes game engine. This engine was previously used for ExoCross and offers more freedom in game design, physics and graphics - crucial for a game that should not only feel realistic, but also be suitable for a wider audience on console. The choice of this engine shows iRacing Studios' conscious decision to take a different technical direction, aiming for more flexibility and improved visual presentation.

The Orontes engine uses modern rendering techniques, improved physics for crash dynamics, advanced weather simulation and scalable performance for different platforms, among others. This allows developers to deliver an immersive yet accessible experience that honours the unique characteristics of INDYCAR racing.

What can players expect?

iRacing Studios has already confirmed some core features:

• Full career mode with advancement opportunities from INDY NXT to the top of INDYCAR
• Official teams, drivers and liveries from both the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the INDY NXT class
• Available for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC and Steam Deck
• Realistic driving characteristics thanks to input from existing iRacing projects and feedback from professional drivers
• Involvement of real drivers, including Scott McLaughlin of Team Penske
• Online multiplayer and championships, for those who want to compete with other sim racers
• Advanced customisation options, such as setups, liveries and team management

In addition to these features, track details, dynamic weather systems and real-world racing rules are also incorporated into the gameplay. All this contributes to an in-depth, competitive racing experience suitable for both casual and hardcore sim racers.

Input from the paddock: Scott McLaughlin involved in development

A notable detail is INDYCAR driver Scott McLaughlin's active role in the development process. McLaughlin, himself an avid iRacing user, will provide valuable feedback on driving behaviour, racing experience and the overall authenticity of the game. As a result, sim racers can count on an experience in line with reality.

McLaughlin has already expressed how important he thinks it is that the game not only feels fast, but also reflects the unique nature of INDYCAR competition: the oval tracks, street racing, road courses and the intense rivalry between teams. His involvement adds credibility to the project and ensures that the voice of the paddock is heard.

A new phase for INDYCAR and iRacing Studios

This release is not a standalone project. The licence agreement between INDYCAR and iRacing Studios is long-term and provides for multiple releases and updates. In addition, iRacing.com Motorsport Simulations will remain active as developer of the PC simulation variant of INDYCAR within the iRacing platform.

With this expansion, iRacing strengthens its position as a leading developer in the sim racing landscape. In addition to the new INDYCAR title, the company also produces console games for NASCAR and World of Outlaws. iRacing Studios now has several specialised development teams, one of which focuses exclusively on this INDYCAR title.

This structure makes it possible to build console-first experiences in parallel with existing simulation platforms, without compromising on quality or depth. By using existing technology and experience, it bridges the gap between competitive sim racing and widely accessible racing games.

Why this is important for sim racers

For sim racers, this announcement means the following:

• Access to a high-quality, standalone INDYCAR game which uses sim experience but is also playable on console
• A bridge between realism and accessibility, thanks to the combination of sim tech and console game design
• Increased visibility and growth of the INDYCAR discipline within the sim racing community
• A new cross-platform standard for how open wheel racing can be experienced virtually

The fact that this game appears on multiple platforms - including the portable Steam Deck - increases accessibility and connects different types of racers: from couch-hanging console fans to avid rig builders with triple screens. So expect plenty of spectacle!

History and future

The relationship between INDYCAR and iRacing dates back to 1989, with titles such as Indianapolis 500: The Simulation and IndyCar Racing II. The new game represents a modern continuation of this heritage, with a clear look to the future. For the first time in decades, fans will be able to play a game dedicated to the unique world of American open wheel racing.

In addition, this game forms an important link in iRacing Studios' broader strategy of bringing different racing classes to life on console. By using recognised licences, committed drivers and modern engines, it is committed to quality, consistency and community building within motorsport gaming.

Release date INDYCAR game

The INDYCAR game from iRacing Studios is expected in the second half of 2026. More details on gameplay, tracks and multiplayer features will follow later. An official trailer or first footage may be expected as early as 2025.

Want to know more?

• Visit www.iracingstudios.com for updates on all iRacing Studios products.
• Or check out the current iRacing offer at www.iracing.com.