Dirt 5, released in November 2020 by Codemasters, is the latest entry in the long-running Dirt series, offering an exhilarating off-road racing experience. Unlike its predecessor, Dirt Rally 2.0, which focused on hardcore rally simulation, Dirt 5 leans into arcade-style gameplay with a greater emphasis on fun, accessibility, and vibrant visuals.
With its stunning environments, dynamic weather, and a variety of race types, Dirt 5 aims to provide a thrilling ride across different terrains. However, while the game succeeds in delivering fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled action, it isn’t without its flaws. In this review, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the strengths and weaknesses of Dirt 5, analyzing its gameplay, graphics, multiplayer features, and overall reception among players. This big review is sponsored by SlowRoads io
The Strengths of Dirt 5
1. Fast-Paced and Accessible Gameplay
One of Dirt 5’s biggest strengths is its arcade-style gameplay, which is designed to be accessible to both casual players and racing enthusiasts. The handling of vehicles is forgiving compared to simulation-based racing games, making it easy to pick up and play. Drifting around corners feels satisfying, and the sense of speed is exhilarating, especially on narrow dirt tracks with unpredictable terrain.
The game encourages aggressive driving, with AI opponents that aren’t afraid to bump into you and create chaotic moments on the track. This aggressive racing style fits well within the game’s off-road theme, making every race feel intense and unpredictable.
2. Stunning Visuals and Dynamic Weather
Visually, Dirt 5 is a feast for the eyes. The game features a diverse range of environments, from snowy mountains to sun-drenched deserts and neon-lit urban tracks. The dynamic weather system is one of the game’s standout features, adding an extra layer of challenge and immersion.
For example, a race that starts under clear skies might suddenly be hit with a torrential downpour, dramatically changing the driving conditions. Snow and mud accumulate on the track, affecting grip and visibility. The lighting effects, particularly in nighttime races with neon signs reflecting off wet roads, make for some breathtaking moments.
On next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, Dirt 5 benefits from smooth 60 FPS performance and an optional 120 FPS mode for an even more fluid experience.
3. Diverse Race Types and Career Mode
Dirt 5 offers a variety of race types, ensuring that players aren’t stuck doing the same thing over and over. From traditional circuit races to point-to-point rally events, ice racing, and even Gymkhana-style stunt challenges, there’s plenty of variety to keep things interesting.
The Career Mode features a story-driven progression system where players work their way up through different events while being guided by a fictional racing podcast hosted by real-world motorsport personalities, including Troy Baker and Nolan North. While the narrative elements are minimal, they add some personality to the experience.
4. Strong Multiplayer and Playgrounds Mode
Multiplayer in Dirt 5 is a highlight, offering both online and split-screen modes. The inclusion of four-player local split-screen is a rare feature in modern racing games, making it an excellent option for couch multiplayer fans. Online multiplayer allows players to compete in standard races or engage in more creative modes.
The Playgrounds Mode is a welcome addition, allowing players to design and share custom stunt arenas. This mode extends the game’s longevity by giving players the tools to create unique challenges and obstacle courses. While it may not be as expansive as some track editors in other games, it provides a fun creative outlet.
The Weaknesses of Dirt 5
1. Lack of Depth in Vehicle Handling and Customization
While Dirt 5’s arcade-style handling is fun, it lacks the depth found in other off-road racers. Vehicles feel somewhat floaty at times, and while the game features a variety of off-road vehicles, they don’t handle as distinctly as one might expect. Unlike Dirt Rally 2.0, where each car requires careful handling adjustments, Dirt 5 prioritizes accessibility over realism, which may disappoint hardcore racing fans.
Additionally, the customization options are somewhat limited. While players can apply liveries and adjust some settings, there’s no deep tuning system to fine-tune performance. For those who enjoy tinkering with their cars, this may feel like a missed opportunity.
2. Career Mode Can Feel Repetitive
Although the Career Mode offers a variety of events, it lacks the sense of progression and challenge found in other racing games. The structure boils down to completing races to unlock more races, with little incentive beyond unlocking new cars and cosmetics. The AI difficulty can feel inconsistent at times, with some races being frustratingly difficult while others are too easy.
The inclusion of voiceovers from real-world motorsport figures is a nice touch, but the story itself feels underdeveloped. Unlike GRID Legends, which incorporated a more cinematic narrative, Dirt 5’s story elements are largely forgettable.
3. Limited Realism and Depth for Hardcore Racing Fans
For players who enjoy deep simulation experiences, Dirt 5 may feel too simplified. The game lacks real-world rally stages and the nuanced driving mechanics found in more simulation-heavy racers. There’s no in-depth damage model, meaning crashes have minimal consequences beyond cosmetic effects.
While this accessibility makes the game more appealing to casual players, it may not satisfy those looking for a more technically demanding off-road racing experience.
4. Some Technical Issues at Launch
Upon release, Dirt 5 faced some technical issues, including frame rate drops, lighting glitches, and occasional crashes. While many of these problems have been addressed through patches, some players reported lingering bugs in online multiplayer. Fortunately, Codemasters has provided ongoing support to improve stability and performance.
Reception and Player Reviews
Upon launch, Dirt 5 received generally positive reviews from critics and players. Many praised the game’s accessibility, vibrant visuals, and fun multiplayer options. The variety of race types and dynamic weather effects were particularly well received.
However, some players criticized the game’s lack of depth, especially in vehicle handling and customization. Hardcore Dirt fans who preferred the more simulation-focused approach of Dirt Rally 2.0 found the game to be too simplified. Others noted that while the game is fun, it doesn’t offer the same lasting appeal as some of its predecessors.
On aggregate review sites like Metacritic, Dirt 5 holds a solid score in the mid-70s to low-80s, indicating a generally favorable reception with some room for improvement.
Final Verdict: Is Dirt 5 Worth It?
Dirt 5 is an enjoyable and visually stunning off-road racing experience that prioritizes fun over realism. Its accessible gameplay, dynamic weather effects, and multiplayer options make it a great choice for casual racing fans or those looking for a more relaxed alternative to hardcore simulators.
However, for players who crave deep vehicle customization, realistic handling, and a more structured Career Mode, Dirt 5 may fall short. The game is best suited for those who want an arcade-style racer with a strong emphasis on spectacle and variety.
Final Score: 7.5/10 – A fun and visually striking arcade racer, but lacking depth for serious racing fans.