NASCAR 25, the highly anticipated racing video game by iRacing Studios, has sparked debate among fans with its controversial driver ratings. The game's release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S marks a new era for the developer, as it ventures into console gaming for the first time. One of the most talked-about ratings is that of seven-time Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson, who was given a score of 54 out of 100, making him the eighth-worst active driver in the game. But is this rating fair? Let's delve into the complexities of driver ratings in racing games and explore why Johnson's score might be a subject of contention.
The Evolution of Driver Ratings in Racing Games
In the world of racing simulations, driver ratings have evolved to mimic the competitive landscape of real-life championships. While iRacing's flagship PC service focuses on human-to-human competition, NASCAR 25 takes a different approach by featuring AI representations of real drivers. However, the AI drivers aren't all created equal. The game scales driver ability to produce realistic results, a technique that has become more prominent in recent years to align with the user-facing ratings found in sports video games like EA's Madden NFL series.
Jimmie Johnson's Rating: A Reflection of Reality?
Jimmie Johnson's rating of 54 in NASCAR 25 is a stark contrast to his past achievements. The seven-time champion, who retired from full-time competition after the 2020 season, has seen a decline in performance. Finishing 18th in points in his last two full-time seasons, Johnson's current status as a part-timer with Legacy Motor Club is a far cry from his peak. The game's developers seem to have taken into account the decline in Johnson's performance, as his rating reflects his current role and the team's performance. The 40th-highest-rated driver in the game is a more accurate representation of Johnson's current standing.
The Case for William Byron's Perfect Rating
In contrast, William Byron, the 2025 regular season champion and back-to-back Daytona 500 winner, received a perfect 100 rating. Byron's consistent performance and dominance in recent races make him the best driver in the game on a week-to-week basis. The developers' decision to award him a perfect score is a bold move, reflecting his current status as the top driver in the Cup Series. This rating is a testament to Byron's skill and the game's ability to capture the competitive landscape accurately.
The Complexity of Driver Ratings
Driver ratings in racing games are not just about individual skill. They are a reflection of the game's attempt to replicate the competitive dynamics of real-life championships. The ratings of drivers like Johnson and Byron highlight the game's ability to capture the ebb and flow of performance in the sport. While some ratings might seem controversial, they are a result of the game's intricate algorithms and the developers' efforts to create a realistic racing experience.
The Debate Continues
NASCAR 25's driver ratings have ignited a debate among fans, with some questioning the fairness of certain scores. The game's developers have made a conscious effort to reflect the reality of the sport, but the subjective nature of ratings leaves room for interpretation. As the game continues to evolve, the debate over driver ratings will likely persist, with fans eagerly awaiting the next update to see how the developers address the complexities of the sport.
