The world of racing games just got a whole lot more interesting with the release of NASCAR 25, but a controversial rating system has fans talking.
A Shocking Rating for a Racing Legend
Imagine the surprise when fans discovered that Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time Cup Series champion, was rated a mere 54 out of 100 in the game! This puts him as the 8th worst driver in the NASCAR Cup Series, according to iRacing Studios. But here's the twist: is this rating a fair assessment of Johnson's skills, or is it a controversial decision that sparks debate?
The game, developed by iRacing Studios, takes a unique approach to driver ratings. Unlike traditional racing games, NASCAR 25 doesn't just focus on the drivers' abilities. It considers a range of factors, including recent performance and team dynamics. And this is where it gets complicated.
Jimmie Johnson, a veteran driver, retired from full-time competition after the 2020 season. His recent results don't reflect his legendary status. But does that justify such a low rating? And this is the part most people miss: iRacing Studios seems to have plotted the drivers on a curve, with ratings ranging from 40 to 100. William Byron, the 2025 regular season champion, received a perfect 100, despite not yet winning a Cup Series championship.
The Controversy Unveiled
The rating system raises questions. Should a driver's rating be solely based on their current performance, or should past achievements be considered? Is it fair to compare drivers from different series and teams? These are the kinds of discussions that make the gaming community so vibrant.
What's your take on this? Do you think Jimmie Johnson's rating is justified, or is it a controversial move by the developers? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a friendly debate!