Dirt 5

About Dirt 5

Dirt 5 launched on November 5, 2020 from Codemasters Cheshire. It sits at the intersection of racing simulation and arcade sport across PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Google Stadia. This title strips away the gritty realism of its predecessors to focus on high-speed chaos and visual flair. You drive a massive roster of vehicles ranging from classic rally cars to modified trucks and GT heroes. The game drops you into iconic global locations for events that feel more like a stunt show than a serious competition. It aims to be the next generation of extreme racing with a focus on accessibility and party play.

Gameplay

Sessions revolve around completing event series in Career mode or jumping into quick online matches. You race against AI opponents or human players using straightforward controls that prioritize drifts and jumps over technical setup tuning. The career path features voice acting from Troy Baker and Nolan North as you chase sponsorships and unlock new rides. A standout feature is the four-player split screen support, which allows local groups to compete without needing an internet connection. You can also customize vehicle liveries in the editor between races. Tracks change dynamically with weather effects that alter grip levels on dirt or snow surfaces. The pace remains frantic as you navigate tight corners and launch off massive ramps for style points.

What Players Think

Critics gave Dirt 5 a solid Metacritic score of 79 out of 100 while IGDB users rated it 77.1 based on 77 reviews. PlayPile data shows players have unlocked 40 achievements with an average completion rate of just 9%. The hardest task remains "That's the Spirit!" which only 1.50% of the player base has managed to unlock. Community moods suggest a split opinion where fans of chaotic arcade fun rate it highly while simulation purists find it too casual. Average playtime varies widely depending on how much time users spend in the career mode versus multiplayer lobbies. The rare achievement stats indicate that mastering the specific skills required for high-level events is a significant barrier for most participants.

PlayPile's Take

This game works best if you want to play with friends locally or enjoy fast-paced arcade racing over realistic physics. The 40 achievements offer some long term goals but the low unlock rates show they are quite difficult. At its current price point, it is a solid purchase for console owners who missed the launch window. Avoid this title if you need deep vehicle tuning options or strict simulation elements. The split screen feature remains a strong selling point for parties. It delivers exactly what it promises without trying to be something else.

Storyline

World-renowned voice talents Troy Baker and Nolan North head up the cast of DIRT 5’s story-driven Career mode. Earn sponsorships and unique rewards and take on a fierce rival in our biggest ever Career.