Monday, December 29, 2025

Noah Gragson Calls iRacing’s NASCAR 25 a Game Changer: “Best NASCAR Game in 10 Years”

Noah Gragson shared his verdict on the highly anticipated NASCAR ’25 by iRacing, praising it as the most impressive NASCAR console game in a decade and calling it a significant breakthrough for console racing fans. As the official release approaches, his reaction and feedback from other drivers highlight the impact of bringing authentic PC-quality racing to wider gaming platforms—a leap for both new and seasoned racers.

Why NASCAR ’25 Is Generating Such Enthusiasm

For fans of NASCAR like Noah Gragson, replicating the sensation of real racing has always been a challenge outside professional simulators, with high costs and limited access to tracks. Now, iRacing aims to close that gap with the standalone title NASCAR ’25, launching soon on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The promise is clear: delivering realistic physics and authentic track experiences previously reserved for high-end PC users, making sophisticated racing more accessible than ever.

After years spent developing a respected simulation community, iRacing secured exclusive rights for this console release, with Matt Lewis announcing a launch timed for the NASCAR playoffs, expected between late September and early October. The arrival of the game has already stirred excitement inside the Cup Series garage, with drivers reportedly testing the new title ahead of its public debut.

Noah Gragson
Image of: Noah Gragson

Noah Gragson, who gained recent attention for lighthearted banter with fellow driver Chase Briscoe, shifted focus to his gaming experience by becoming one of the first to offer his thoughts on NASCAR ’25. His opinion quickly gained traction among motorsport fans and gamers alike, putting the spotlight on how well the game transfers the real-world feel of racing onto a console.

“Just played the new @iRacing NASCAR video game. I gotta say, impressed is an understatement! It is a true racing game with good physics. Haven’t played a NASCAR game this good for 10+ years. This game will revive NASCAR console gaming. I’m so hyped! Great work to everyone involved!!”

—Noah Gragson, NASCAR Cup Series Driver

Gragson’s bold assessment speaks to the authenticity of the game’s physics, which benefit from more than 15 years of development on PC before being remastered for the console audience. His enthusiasm sets high expectations for what the general racing community might experience upon release.

How iRacing’s NASCAR 25 Stands Apart from Previous Titles

Noah Gragson’s feedback suggests the game delivers realistic feedback and an immersive driving experience, even though his exact setup details remain unconfirmed. Fans have been eager for a true advancement since iRacing took over from 704 Games—whose tenure included the NASCAR Heat series and NASCAR ’21 Ignition, both now seen as outdated by many in the community. Gragson’s reaction is a clear sign that gamers’ requests for improvements have been addressed.

Ty Majeski, celebrated for winning the 2024 Craftsman Truck Series championship, also voiced his excitement after experiencing the game.

“Did some shooting for @Nascar25Game today. Even got to rip a few laps… You all are going to love it.”

—Ty Majeski, NASCAR Driver

Majeski’s behind-the-scenes involvement and positive remarks reinforce the idea that NASCAR ’25 offers a depth of simulation that surpasses its predecessors, suggesting that this edition is more than just an update—it’s potentially a revolution for console-based NASCAR titles.

Legacy NASCAR Games Disappear as the New Era Approaches

With the excitement building for NASCAR ’25, longtime fans have watched as digital platforms begin delisting older NASCAR console games. Motorsport Games announced the license expiry on December 21, 2023, leading to the removal of titles such as NASCAR The Game: Inside Line, NASCAR The Game: 2013, and NASCAR Rivals (2022) in the near future. For collectors and preservationists, there’s a rush to secure these games before they vanish from storefronts and servers.

This period marks the end of several key eras in virtual stock-car racing, including releases from EA Sports in the late 1990s, Papyrus’ early 2000s contributions, and the 2010s The Game franchise, each of which helped advance gaming physics and presentation. For many, these games are milestones—moments that shaped racing on consoles, now threatened by the ticking clock of digital distribution rights.

What Lies Ahead for Console Racers and the NASCAR Community

With legacy titles fading from the market, fans are turning their attention to iRacing’s plans for NASCAR ’25 after launch. While specific downloadable content and extra features haven’t been officially announced, the game’s developer has hinted at potential updates, including seasonal challenges, new events, and possibly classic car packs. Drawing on the longstanding PC model, features like real-time races and global leaderboards could become regular fixtures, expanding possibilities for new and veteran players alike.

Noah Gragson iRacing NASCAR 25 verdict and reviews like Ty Majeski’s are shaping expectations for a game set to redefine the landscape of NASCAR racing on consoles. As the console gaming era resets this fall, the community finds itself both nostalgic for the classics and eager for what iRacing’s latest effort will bring. The coming months promise a turning point for the way fans, drivers, and gamers experience simulated stock-car action, with more immersive and challenging races than ever before.