Top 8 Demolition Derby Games to Play

Deep within us lies a primal urge to crash vehicles, and while games like Grand Theft Auto Online or arcade racers such as Forza Horizon 5 may satisfy this craving temporarily, nothing quite captures the raw thrill of destruction like dedicated demolition derby games.

Rooted in the motorsport of the same name, demolition derby games—sometimes referred to as destruction derbies—focus solely on crashing vehicles for entertainment, distinguishing themselves from other vehicular combat titles like Crossout and Twisted Metal. Rather than utilizing weaponry, players engage in impactful collisions that mirror the chaotic energy of real-life demolition derbies.

8 Destruction Derby 2

Until The Wheels Fall Off

Released in 1996, Destruction Derby 2 introduced groundbreaking mechanics such as deeply destructible vehicles that lose parts upon damage. This innovative feature laid the groundwork for future demolishing games.

While it resembles its predecessor, the sequel enhances the gaming experience with improved graphics and physics. Despite its age, it remains enjoyable today, delivering a physics experience that is delightfully chaotic. Watching friends get launched into the air only to take a comical amount of time to fall is part of the lasting appeal.

7 Dirt: Showdown

Another Way to Drive Dirty

Known for its realistic approach to rally racing, the Dirt series takes a departure from its core principles in Dirt: Showdown, favoring an arcade-style gameplay that embraces demolition derbies.

This title offers a satisfying experience, characterized by robust metallic crashes. Gamers should embrace the game’s unrealistic physics to fully appreciate the wild and enjoyable encounters.

6 Trail Out

A Legend Returns

Trail Out serves as a spiritual successor to the beloved FlatOut series, seamlessly integrating over-the-top physics and zany mini-games featuring drivers being ejected from their vehicles.

While it borrows from real-life demolition derbies, including races through destructible environments and whimsical mini-games, it exudes a charming nostalgia lacking in more modern racing titles.

The game includes a rival system similar to Need for Speed: Most Wanted, providing a narrative drive to enhance gameplay progression.

5 Carmageddon

A Nightmarish Twist

Initially conceived as a demolition derby game, Carmageddon took on a graphic, post-apocalyptic theme akin to other vehicular combat games. However, it distinguished itself by opting for ramming over weaponry, retaining its demolition roots.

The game’s notorious scoring system rewards players for running over pedestrians, a mechanic later altered in some versions to feature zombies instead, highlighting its unique and controversial approach to gameplay.

4 FlatOut 2

Is No One Wearing A Seat Belt?

Famed for its unique feature that allows players to eject their drivers, the FlatOut series has captivated audiences with chaotic races and demolition derbies.

FlatOut 2 enhances the original with a richer variety of vehicles, tracks, and challenges, while maintaining a balance between mini-games and core demolition derby elements.

While leaning more towards the arcade side, the game’s heart remains in its obliterative chaos, ensuring players encounter the thrill of demolition throughout.

3 Destruction Derby: Arenas

Style and Substance

Destruction Derby: Arenas pushed the boundaries of its predecessors with unique characters, cars that reflect their personas, and immersive environments.

With an arcade-style twist, this title encourages players to engage in chaotic destruction, emphasizing vehicle ramming as the main means of combat.

Champions present on each track provide motivation for players to compete, often making it necessary to balance scoring and survival—definitely not a winning formula in a derby!

2 Wreckfest

A Festival Worth Crashing

Positioned as a revival of classic demolition derby experiences, Wreckfest combines elements from the *FlatOut* games while embracing a more realistic approach.

Given the genre’s decline in popularity, this game honors its legacy with genuine respect, merging intense races with varied destruction scenarios involving unconventional vehicles.

Where else can you pit lawnmowers against each other and expect a thrilling, explosive outcome?

1 Test Drive: Eve Of Destruction

It’s A Way Of Life

More than just a game, Test Drive: Eve of Destruction serves as a heartfelt tribute to the world of demolition derbies.

It excels due to its unique race formats, including chain races and school bus competitions, echoing real-life demolition events along with a diverse range of gameplay mechanics that prevent monotony.

Players can unlock actual race footage, a testament to the extensive research the developers undertook to create an authentic experience. With its interesting campaign that features a roguelike twist—where car damage can be permanent—this game encourages a strategic management of your junk vehicle fleet.