DIRT 5 is an off-road arcade racing game developed by Codemasters for PC. It emphasizes high-speed competition across varied terrains with a focus on accessible controls and spectacle rather than strict simulation. Players handle a range of vehicles through gravel, ice, snow, and sand while navigating dynamic conditions that shift during events.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on racing through dozens of routes set in ten global locations. These include frozen rivers in New York, landmarks in Brazil, and northern lights in Norway. A dynamic weather and season system alters track conditions, such as limiting ice events to winter periods in certain areas. Vehicles span rally icons, trophy trucks, buggies, muscle cars, and high-power sprint cars capable of 900 horsepower. Handling balances arcade responsiveness with terrain challenges like jumps and loose surfaces. Players customize liveries in detail and use a photo mode to capture moments from races.
Game Modes
Career mode follows a narrative structure where the player competes under a mentor while facing a rival driver across championships. Sponsorships and rewards unlock as locations are conquered. Local split-screen supports up to four players in offline modes, including Career. Online play allows up to twelve participants in curated playlists of standard races. Additional options include Playgrounds, an arena creator mode, and objective-based Party modes set in dedicated arenas for cooperative or competitive play.
Locations and Vehicles
Routes cover Arizona, Brazil, China, Greece, Italy, Morocco, Nepal, New York City, Norway, and South Africa. Disciplines range from rallycross and ice racing to stadium super trucks and off-road buggies. The roster mixes established rally cars with heavy trucks and agile machines suited to extreme off-road demands. Conditions evolve with seasons, requiring adaptation to rain, snow, or clear tracks on the same paths.
Is It Worth Playing?
DIRT 5 suits players who enjoy arcade-style off-road racing with strong local and online multiplayer options. The split-screen feature makes it suitable for couch sessions, while online modes add variety through objective events. Steam user reviews sit at mixed overall, reflecting varied opinions on long-term engagement. Those seeking a bold, visual racing experience with career progression and creative tools will find the package aligned with that preference. The game remains available on PC with its full feature set intact since launch.
