Players Like...

❤ Driving Physics and Handling

Reviewers praise the game's driving physics as a significant improvement over previous entries in the series. Players highlight the cars' adherence to realism, requiring careful throttle control, braking, and countersteering to navigate the tight, demanding tracks. Each vehicle class, from the 305 Wingless Sprints to the SRX cars, handles distinctly, demanding players master unique driving techniques to be competitive. Reviewers frequently cite the sense of weight and momentum in the cars as a highlight, with the vehicles feeling solidly planted and responsive to the player's inputs.

❤ AI Opponents

The game's AI drivers are widely regarded as a major strength. Reviewers commend the AI for providing challenging, realistic competition that races the player hard without resorting to unfair, physics-defying maneuvers. Players describe the AI as adaptive, with drivers adjusting their lines and tactics to the player's style. Many appreciate the sense of building rivalries with specific AI opponents over the course of a career.

❤ Variety of Disciplines and Tracks

The game offers a diverse array of racing disciplines, from the raw power of the 305 Wingless Sprints to the loose, slide-heavy SRX cars. Reviewers highlight the value proposition, which packs in over 50 unique dirt and asphalt tracks across multiple series. The inclusion of both fictional and laser-scanned real-world venues is praised, with the varied track layouts and surfaces keeping the gameplay fresh.

❤ Career Mode Progression

The game's career mode is a standout feature, with reviewers enjoying the sense of progression as they advance through the different vehicle classes. The ability to hire and develop AI "team drivers" to compete in certain series is seen as a clever solution to the challenge of mastering each car type. The career mode's focus on building up the player's team and resources is appreciated, adding a sense of investment and strategy to the on-track action.