Video games take you into a virtual world and let you enjoy a different reality from the comfort of your favorite location. You get to control one or more avatars to fulfill your wishes and achieve the goals you set out for in the game. Sports video games let you enjoy the thrill of participating in your favorite sporting activity without the need for your physical presence in an arena.

The best sports video games, vividly mimic the realities of the sport you love, following the rules of the game. They let you live the lives of some of your favorite sporting stars, without the need for you to go through some of the rigors they pass through.

We want you to enjoy your gaming experience. And so we have compiled this list of sports such as football, basketball, cricket, skating, hunting, wrestling, and others. The games in this guide also include the most popular platforms such as the PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and Nintendo Switch.

Editors choice

1. Nintendo Switch Sports

9.40 / 10
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If you use Nintendo Switch or you have someone who does, then Nintendo Switch Sports is one of the best video games you can buy. This game contains various sports. Hence, you would be getting multiple exciting sports games for the price of one.

The six sports in this game include soccer, volleyball, bowling, tennis, badminton, and Chambara (swordplay). Having access to a variety of sports keeps you engaged and having fun for a long time. If you are a soccer fan, you simply choose that sport and have fun in pro leagues across the world. The same goes for the other sports in this game. You can even use the Joy-Con controller with the included Leg Strap for parts that can be played with the leg, such as kicking the ball in soccer.

If you don’t want to play alone, you can play against other players from various places across the world, thanks to the online multiplayer option. The game randomly matches you with other players across the globe and lets you battle it out with them. You can then redeem the points you gain from winning against them for rewards such as outfits, sports accessories, gear, and other things your avatar needs in the game.

The in-game rewards change weekly. So, if you don’t like what you see in stock one week, you can always check back the following week. A local multiplayer option is also available for moments when you want to play with someone in the same room.

Key Features
  • Soccer
  • Volleyball
  • Bowling
  • Tennis
Specifications
  • Publisher: Nintendo
  • Genre: Sports
  • Mode: Single-player, Multiplayer
  • Platform: Switch
  • Rating: E
Pros
  • Various sports
  • Motion control
  • Online multiplayer option
  • Rotating in-game rewards
Cons
  • Can’t get player cosmetics without playing online
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Nintendo Switch Sports

Cricket 22 gives cricket fans and lovers a robust gameplay experience of the sport. With this, you get to enjoy the full licensed ashes contest. This contest is the peak of the long-standing competition between Australia and England, two rivals in the cricket world.

In this game, you can also contest in Australia’s Big Bash T20 competition. You can also play The Hundred in England, the tropical party of the CPL in the Caribbean, and other international games.

For the international games, you can play using teams from countries such as Australia, England, The West Indies, New Zealand, and Ireland. You can also play both men's and women’s games in Cricket 22.

This version gives you access to bowling and fielding controls. With tight controls, you get an improved cricket gaming experience as you experience improved attention to detail in the game.

There is a career mode where you enjoy clean and interesting narrations. In this mode, you not only get to experience cricket gameplay, but you also get to see the other aspects of the cricket sports world such as training, conferences, and injuries on your road to winning the championship.

You enjoy a smooth gaming experience, thanks to the visual updates that take advantage of your hardware to give you a more realistic experience. It loads with speed, saving you from long wait periods before you can enjoy your gaming session.

The game is available on various platforms including PlayStations 4 and 5, Xbox Series X and One, and Nintendo Switch.

Key Features
  • New bowling and fielding controls
  • Narrative-driven career mode
  • New commentary team
  • Accessible
Specifications
  • Publisher: Nacon
  • Genre: Sports
  • Mode: Single-player, Multiplayer
  • Platform: PS5
  • Rating: E
Pros
  • Great graphics
  • Immersive gameplay
  • Tutorials for new players
  • Fun to play
Cons
  • Some bugs might interfere with player experience
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Cricket 22 - The Official Game of The Ashes (PS5)
Best value

3. Madden NFL 22

9.00 / 10
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The Madden NFL 22 is another sports game by Electronic Arts, a popular name in the gaming world. This is a game targeted at football fans (Known as American football to people outside the US). In NFL 2022, Dynamic Gameday ensures all game modes have those elements you love about the NFL.

Dynamic Gameday helps you enjoy a smarter gameplay experience, as the game makes use of real-life data. The game makes use of Next-Gen Stats Star-Driven AI and Gameday Atmosphere elements. It also gives you the most realistic depiction of football players. However, the Gameday Atmosphere is only available on PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X|S versions of the game at the moment. You get to see your gameplay happen in open-air stadiums designed with great attention to detail. The attention to detail is up to the extent that the shadows cast by the structures in the stadiums look realistic.

Madden Ultimate Team is no longer part of the game. The Franchise mode now has the same content rollout as others. You get a new coaching management system, and you have better control over other avatars apart from the players. You can now control the head coach, coordinators, and other personnel to improve your team’s chances of success in the game.

In Madden NFL 22, you not only get to enjoy better visuals, but you get more realistic gameplay as the players’ movement and colliding also look more real when compared to previous versions of the game.

Key Features
  • Dynamic Gameday
  • Gameday Atmosphere elements
  • Improved control over team staff
  • Direct control of the head coach
Specifications
  • Publisher: Electronic Arts
  • Genre: Sports
  • Mode: Single-player, Multiplayer
  • Platform: Cross-platform
  • Rating: E
Pros
  • Available on multiple platforms
  • Improved Franchise mode
  • Great football gameplay
  • Clean and realistic graphics
Cons
  • Some occasional bugs
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Madden NFL 22

You can show off your skateboarding skills without getting off your couch. This is thanks to the Tony Hawk Pro Skater game. The game is available on various consoles including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.

In this skateboarding game, you can show off your unique skateboarding style and skate as the legendary Tony Hawk. You can hit various trick combos thanks to the handling of the skater series. You can also play in various modes such as playing alone or with a competitor in the local 2-player mode. There’s the online multiplayer mode too for those who would love to compete with other skaters from across the world.

The game’s Collector’s Edition includes the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 game, the Digital Deluxe Edition Content, and the Limited Edition Full Size Birdhouse Skateboard Deck.

However, if you buy just the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 game, you get ‘The Ripper’ skater from Powell-Peralta; unique retro outfits for Tony Hawk, Steve Caballero, and Rodney Mullen; and unique retro content for the Create-A-Skater mode.

The game adds to your entertainment by letting you listen to songs from the era-defining soundtrack during your gameplay. If you’re playing on Nintendo Switch, you can use the Nintendo Switch Pro controller. You can also use the OLED switch with it. It all depends on your preference. You should however be aware that an internet download update is required before you can start playing on Nintendo Switch for the first time.

Key Features
  • Create-A-Skater
  • Skate as Tony Hawk
  • Trick combos
  • Various game modes
Specifications
  • Publisher: Activision
  • Genre: Sports
  • Mode: Single-player, Multiplayer
  • Platform: Cross-platform
  • Rating: E
Pros
  • Interesting soundtrack
  • Online multiplayer
  • Available on multiple platforms
  • 4K graphics on PS5 and Xbox Series
Cons
  • Internet download update is required before the first play
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Tony Hawk Pro Skater

Soccer, which is known as football in many places outside the US is a uniting sports game that is very popular among many. If not the most popular sport globally, it sits on the table as one of the most popular ones. The global body that oversees this sport is called FIFA, and FIFA 22 is a sports game making reference to the body that oversees many tournaments.

FIFA 22 by EA makes use of HyperMotion technology to improve the player’s gameplay experience. It also uses a new goalkeeper system that increases the intelligence your goalkeeper avatar shows on the football pitch. In this edition, the goalkeeper makes smarter decisions and stops shots from opponent players in a more reliable manner.

In FIFA 22, you can see the different goalkeeping styles and reflexes of the world's topmost goalkeepers in play during the game. This edition of the FIFA game tries to replicate the styles of these known goalkeepers. Hence, when you select your keeper, you can expect a performance similar to the one they exhibit in real life.

This game also makes use of real-world data to improve the ball’s physics. It makes use of parameters such as speed, swerve, air drag, air resistance, ground friction, and rolling friction to make your game much more realistic. This reflects when you dribble, pass, shoot, and touch the ball.

You also get more control over your acceleration when playing either in attacking or defending modes. You can use the explosive sprint feature to suddenly increase your speed during games.

Key Features
  • HyperMotion technology
  • Goalkeeper Rewrite
  • True ball physics
  • Explosive sprint
Specifications
  • Publisher: Electronic Arts
  • Genre: Sports
  • Mode: Single-player, Multiplayer
  • Platform: PS5
  • Rating: E
Pros
  • Improved motion technology
  • Smarter goalkeepers
  • Real-life football parameters
  • New attacking tactics
Cons
  • AI on career mode needs improvement
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If you’re a hockey lover and an avid gamer, you might have wished to find a way to enjoy your favorite sport as more than just a spectator. NHL 22 provides you with this option. You can now enjoy your favorite game, not just as a spectator, but also as a player in the virtual world.

The game is by EA Sports and powered by Frostbite. The NHL 22 also gets the superstar treatment as it has a huge improvement in graphics when compared to its predecessor. In this version, you also get the arrival of Superstar X-factors which gives you an all-new layer of class-based play.

The Superstar X-factors lets you experience each NHL elite player's unique personality and skills. The game has been customized so that as a player, you also get access to the real-life skills and playing style of your favorite most elite Hockey players in the league.

NHL 22 lets you enjoy your time on ice while playing as the elite hockey players you know without leaving the comfort of your sofa. However, on PlayStation 4, for instance, you can’t edit a player’s ability when you’re in franchise mode. Hence, you must ensure you get your players’ skills and settings before you begin a franchise.

This game is available on various consoles and different modes. You can opt to play it on your PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5. It is also available on X-Factor Edition, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, as Xbox Digital Code, and as Xbox SeriesX|S Digital Code.

Key Features
  • One unlocked hockey bag
  • Includes players’ unique skills
  • Superstar X-Factors
  • Powered by Frostbite
Specifications
  • Publisher: Electronic Arts
  • Genre: Sports
  • Mode: Single-player, Multiplayer
  • Platform: Cross-platform
  • Rating: E
Pros
  • Works on multiple platforms
  • Improved graphics
  • Single and multiplayer modes
  • Fun to play
Cons
  • You might be unable to edit a player’s ability once franchise mode starts
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EA Sports NHL 2022

Many wrestling fans and non-fans know the name ‘WWE’. This is because it has become a household name in the world of sports and wrestling alike. The WWE 2K22 game is based on wrestling as a sport being played in the WrestleMania ring.

The WWE 2K22 game is one you can play with your friends using the local co-op mode. You can then battle it out while enjoying a good time together. You can also choose to play against your friends who are not nearby by using the online play mode if you are on the same platform.

This is because there is no cross-platform support for gamers who want to compete with one another online. 2K sports only offer cross-generational support which makes it for a player on PlayStation 4, for instance, to play online against another player using PlayStation 5. However, all you need do if you are together in a physical space is to change your opponent to ‘human’ and you can trash it out with the person beside you.

In the game, you can choose to play as one of your favorite WWE stars as many of them have their avatars there. This list includes The Rock, Logan Paul, Sasha Banks, Goldberg, Machine Gun Kelly, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Roman Reigns, Brock Lesnar, and Randy Orton.

You can also enjoy the game’s community creations and model your character to suit your tastes. You can then choose to upload this character online in the community. This community is accessible via any platform as long as it is one that the game supports.

Key Features
  • Redesigned gameplay engine
  • WWE superstars
  • WWE General Manager
  • MyRISE adventures
Specifications
  • Publisher: 2K
  • Genre: Sports
  • Mode: Single-player, Multiplayer
  • Platform: Cross-platform
  • Rating: T
Pros
  • Improved graphics
  • Available on multiple platforms
  • Various wrestling tournaments
  • Classic wrestling legends
Cons
  • Some occasional bugs and glitches
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Hunting Simulator 2 is a cross-platform game that lets you enjoy the thrill of hunting as a sport. You get to hunt over 36 animals of various sizes in their simulated natural habitats. You can choose any of three major regions to hunt in, and select any of the multiple sub-regions for variety and content.

Canine lovers will also find this game interesting as you can partner with your dog companion when you go on hunts. You can command your dog mechanic to track, freeze, and follow, plus other commands.

The game also gives you access to licensed gear from top-rated hunting brands. You can customize your player with up to 65 different weapons. You can also use 13 special items and 87 apparel options. These items come from brands such as Browning, Winchester, Bushnell, Kryptek, and Verney-Carron.

The open-world maps are immersive and give you the feeling of being on an actual hunt. You can also choose from hunting styles such as traditional hunting, stand hunting, and waterfowl hunting. Hunting is available in places such as the plains of Colorado, the desert of Texas, and the forests in Europe.

You can also choose a Labrador Retriever, a German Shorthaired Pointer, or a Beagle to be your canine companion on your hunting trip. Choosing any of them gives you access to each one’s unique hunting features.

Hunting Simulator is an offline game you can enjoy without the need to connect your console to the internet. However, you can run into some difficulties in lining your shot through the scope as the controls can sometimes be finicky.

Key Features
  • Over 36 different animals
  • 3 major regions
  • Multiple sub-regions
  • Dog companion
Specifications
  • Publisher: Maximum Games
  • Genre: Sports
  • Mode: Single-Player, Multiplayer
  • Platform: Cross-platform
  • Rating: T
Pros
  • Licensed gear from popular brands
  • 65 different weapons
  • 13 special items
  • 87 apparel options
Cons
  • Lining up a shot in scope can be tricky
Buy This Product
Hunting Simulator 2

NBA 2K22 immerses you into a virtual world of basketball. You can play in real NBA and WNBA environments thanks to this game. You also get to play against real teams and authentic players.

The game lets you build your dream team using MyTEAM. In MyTEAM, you get to choose from present and past stars to build your formidable team and compete against others. Each game season also opens you up to new rewards.

MyCAREER allows you to build a career from the ‘bottom’ and rise to the ‘top’ in the NBA while being in the City or Neighborhood. You can also play while in ‘college’, the NBA-G League, or the NBA.

As a player, the game also allows you to develop your brand outside the court. You can use your brand in the fashion or music industries, and the likes. Play a game of tactical offensive in combination with an overhauled defense to win the game. You also get to use and enjoy skill-based dribbles as you shoot, dunk, block, and contest while using alley-oops on the court.

The game exposes you to the world of high-level professional basketball. You can also use MyGM and MyLEAGUE to show your management and executive skills. It uses high-resolution visual presentation as player AI to give you a stellar gaming experience.

NBA 2K22 also features updated rosters and historic teams to give you a more realistic experience when compared to NBA 2K. This is in addition to the energy of the crowd you feel during your game sessions.

Key Features
  • MyCAREER
  • MyGM
  • MyLEAGUE
  • NBA and WNBA environments
Specifications
  • Publisher: 2K
  • Genre: Sports
  • Mode: Single-player, Multiplayer
  • Platform: Cross-platform
  • Rating: E
Pros
  • Authentic teams and players
  • Improved visuals
  • New tactical offense and overhauled defense
  • Diverse events
Cons
  • Can be frustrating for first-time players
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Bassmaster Fishing 2022: Deluxe Edition lets you go on a fishing adventure in licensed boats from popular companies. You get boats and other licensed content from Yamaha Outboard Motors, Skeeter Boats, Missile Baits, and others. The game comes with ten pro anglers and you get to play as or compete against stars such as Hank Cherry, Scott Martin, and eight other legends who are official pro anglers.

Bassmaster Fishing 2022 lets you go on the water across eight real-world venues, including the Sabine Rivers backwaters and huge open horizons on Lake Hamilton. You can play online modes and compete for the top of the leaderboard against other players worldwide. You can also jump into cross-play modes or go for being a champion in Bassmaster Royale.

This game adds another flair to your fishing experience as you get a new perspective thanks to the underwater camera. You can also use the new GPS map system to explore and mark up venues. Furthermore, you get to finesse fishing around weeds by using the right equipment to avoid snagging.

By playing this game, you get to experience the world of competitive fishing in various locations across the globe. You also get to see what it takes to earn sponsors and progress through a fishing career to become a Bassmaster Classic champion. The Unreal Engine helps bring beautiful visuals to life as you also get to see various fish species.

Play the game, show off your skills by conquering in-game seasonal challenges, and collect cosmetic items and equipment.

Key Features
  • 8 official venues
  • 10 pro anglers
  • Licensed content
  • GPS map system
Specifications
  • Publisher: Maximum Games
  • Genre: Sports
  • Mode: Single-player, Multiplayer
  • Platform: Cross-platform
  • Rating: E
Pros
  • Beautiful visuals
  • Different play modes
  • Unique fishing perspective
Cons
  • Tutorials can be difficult to understand
Buy This Product
Bassmaster Fishing 2022: Deluxe Edition

The best sports video games cut across various sports and gaming platforms. They are games based on some of the most popular sports globally. Such sports include soccer, football, volleyball, basketball, cricket, skating, wrestling, hunting, tennis, volleyball, hunting, and fishing.

In addition to playing the actual sport via an avatar, some of the best sports games also introduce you to the management side of the sports. In some games, you get to build teams, train players and deal with other staff members while trying to successfully run the team and achieve success. Some games also include other personal player management details such as letting you act as a player that has to manage his brand to get endorsements, deals, and the likes, further immersing you into the lives of your favorite stars in those sports.

Many sports games are named after the popular bodies and brands involved in those sports. Such bodies include FIFA, NBA, NHL, NFL, and brands such as WWE. The video games also cut across various platforms such as PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC.

We couldn't cover every single sport in this list of the best sports video games. However, the above are many of the best ones that are also popular among players. Many of them are also realistic simulations of real-life sports. Hence, if you have not already found one that you love, go through the list again and pick at least one game you can enjoy on your console.

Console

Gamers play on various consoles. Such consoles include the Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox series S, PlayStations 4 and 5, and PC. These are the most common gaming platforms today. However, other gaming platforms were more popular in the past. They include the earlier versions of the PlayStation such as PlayStation 1, PlayStation 2, and PlayStation 3. There are others such as SEGA too.

Many of the games are available on multiple platforms. Hence, you can play and enjoy the best sports video games on any of the recent platforms you are on. On a Windows PC, for instance, all you may need to do is to download the game and install it. However, on platforms such as PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, you may need the physical game hard copy to install and enjoy your favorite game. Platforms such as the Xbox allow you to install the games from a physical copy or by buying a downloadable version that you can install and later update.