DiRT 3 Review

Without fantastic, responsive driving mechanics the game would be but an empty shell. Thankfully the controls, with and without assists, are superb across the entire generation of vehicles. For many events you can choose which decade or type of vehicle to select. This enhances replay value due to the differences in speed and handling. The introduction of weather effects and snow only helps to demonstrate how amazing the driving feels. Sliding around on snow through Aspen contrasts nicely with high grip tarmac of Los Angeles. There are also the superb transitions from tarmac to dirt in the woods around Michigan.

Racing a bobsled down the mountain

It is important to find a difficulty that matches your own skill level. Much of my time was spent without assists using a 360 controller. The difficulty sweet spot was higher than the prequel for racing and rally events thanks partly to five flashbacks being available on all difficulty levels. On this higher difficulty I was brutalized during the competitive Gymkhana events due to my propensity to crash. Being able to change difficulty on the fly with no adverse consequences removes much frustration. There are still some timed events that will be tough to get through no matter what difficulty or assists you use.

The on-track personality has thankfully been redirected for the sequel. Although drivers from the previous game return they say nothing when racing. No longer do you have Ken Block or other characters talking during races. Nor do they make comments when arriving at a new destination. Ken Block does provide some basic training for Gymkhana early on but he is never heard of again. Most of the personality has been shifted to the three characters, Ellie, Christian and Jack, who are also silent during races.

These three characters cover a wide demographic but manage to stay out of the way. They provide some memorable gems like, “being the fastest is a good strategy for success,” although these words of advice can be skipped. As they narrate the tour they tell you how good you are and preview upcoming events. Spectators are also more vocal and responsive. They will boo and flinch if you crash near them. In some events they are seen running from the track and jumping over barriers as your car approaches. During races in particular they will call out flattering or derogatory comments depending on how well you are driving. These nice extras go along well with the improved graphics.

Visual improvements include color toning, weather effects and a sleek new menu system. The menu is still 3D but it’s minimalistic, consistent and quicker to navigate than the trailer interface from DiRT 2. Pyramids and triangles hold seasons and events, and cars drift through the menus kicking up more gold pyramids to make everything flamboyant. Music is mellower than the original, solidifying the reduction in extroverted personality.

Let is snow, let it snow, let it snow

Aside from the improved menu system the weather effects provide some visual variation to the tracks and vehicles. Varying conditions make attractive texture modifications to your car, placing layers of icicles on the hood or mud on the rear. The precipitation events do result in a change in vehicle handling. Rain naturally makes the tarmac slippery and snow storms make Trailblazer events hazardous at full clip. Color toning does change the look of locales from sunburnt Kenya to overcast Finland. Those who enjoy racing online will be pleased with the inclusion of more modes.