The Best HD Racing Games for the iPad

The iPad is a natural when it comes to racing games. The larger screen, at nearly 10 inches, means every game looks bigger and brighter. Games designed specifically for iPad provide fantastic, immersive graphics. Games made for iPhone and iPod allow users to play with original screen size or stretch to full screen. iPad offers greater in-game control than other devices due to the fact that you don't have to play while holding it. Options include multitouch gestures and virtual buttons that can be moved to suit your preferences.

When it comes to iPad apps, racing games are always a favorite but it can be hard to know which one to choose. On any platform these games traditionally push the graphic and processing capabilities of the device, so it's always about finding a balance. However, the iPad offers a powerful processor, fast 3D graphics, extensive memory, and a long battery life. It works with nearly every racing game in the App Store, so you can be satisfied knowing that know matter what racing game you finally choose, playing it on the iPad will be an excellent experience.

If you're ready to start racing in HD, this list of consistently popular racing games for the iPad is a good place to start.

Raging Thunder 2 HD

Raging Thunder 2 HD features multi-platform, multi-player internet gaming with both Career and Instant modes. In Career mode, you will unlock advanced cars and tracks. You will unlock and buy cars and upgrades to create the perfect racer, then challenge opponents around the world or play any of five adrenaline-fueled single player modes. RT2 showcases intense 3D graphics with stunning textures and effects. The fast-paced play and difficult maneuvers make the game challenging, tricks and power-ups keep it interesting.

Low Grav Racer 2 HD

Low Grav Racer 2 HD features 18 "space systems:" crazy, twisting, looping tracks that you race through at mind-blowing speeds. The larger size of the device makes for fantastic accelerometer and turn control. Alternatively, you can steer using the buttons to the right and left of your screen. Your only other options for control are a weapons button and a brake button. The weapons button is used to activate weapons and power-ups that you've acquired by driving over them. The game is not heavily into customization, and the simplified controls mean beating each track is mostly about memorization and power-ups. This is a solid, all-around racing game that is perfect for the casual racer.

Real Racing 2 HD

Real Racing 2 HD is iPad and iPad2 optimized. This exciting, visually incredible game offers both Career mode and 16 player online multiplayer modes. The graphics in RR2 test the limits of the device. Choose from 30 cars designed by real auto manufacturers and race through 15 breathtaking landscapes. Improvements and events are available via update. The game makes your iPad the ultimate machine with flawless handling due to advanced gyroscope technology. Upload video of your amazing finishes to YouTube.

Fastlane Street Racing HD is one of the fastest racing games for iPad. Traffic-congested city tracks test your maneuvering skills while high speed circuits offer the opportunity to improve driving techniques. The smooth, richly detailed graphics give a flawless sense of speed and polish. Choose from ten different cars and five game modes with city routes, race circuits and challenge tracks. This is one of only a few games that do not contain advertising. FSR is a good choice for kart racing fans that enjoy Need for Speed or Crash Bandicoot Nitro Cart.

Ducati Challenge HD

Ducati Challenge HD is a unique racer featuring official Ducati racing motorcycles and an opulent 3D graphic environment. The game provides one-of-a-kind thrills and challenging maneuvers requiring precision steering. Choose from several of Ducati's my2011 models including the Streetfighter S and the Monster 1100 EVO. The smooth, fast tracks take racers through medieval villages, desert valleys and narrow winding roads. Single player mode includes several levels of difficulty or quick race options and you can challenge your friends in 4 player multiplayer mode.

Cubed Rally Racer HD

Cubed Rally Racer HD is a unique 3D isometric rally car game. Every level is generated randomly and racers compete by collecting power-ups to get the best time. The smooth 3D graphics and configurable controls can be enjoyed in single player or versus mode and the game can be integrated with Twitter and Facebook. CRR offers 99 unlockable sections with plenty of visually entertaining track elements.

The Fast and the Furious movie is one of the most popular of 2011. So, of course Gameloft created another app to match. Fast and Furious Movie: Official Game is the fourth to hit the App Store following Pink Slip, Adrenaline and the original Fast and Furious The Game. This racing game lets players become Brian O’Conner where they can race in single and multiplayer modes in exotic locations all over the world such as Hong Kong, Rio de Janeiro, and the Dominican Republic.