DiRT Showdown Review

The problems continue with many of the other modes. The 8 ball races are particularly terrifying to experience in multiplayer. One appealing aspect of 8 Ball is that first place is easily attainable from dead last thanks to horrifying crossovers. Domination is consistently enjoyable due to the steady racing but appears so infrequently. Matches are finished quickly regardless of the mode you are playing. These short stints prevent the action from becoming stale but it also means you’ll have to endure the bad to play the good.

Steam matchmaking and achievements are used for Showdown, marking the first transition from GFW Live for the series. You can search for solo and team matches or try your luck with specific game mode searches. Solo is more popular with player numbers already on the low side. Vetoing tracks and modes is a lot quicker but the rest functions much the same as the previous titles. One good feature is being able to send challenges to friends after you finish events. Your friends will get limited attempts against your ghost car for in-game money and bragging rights. Steam integration works well but the in game net code is not quite up to the task when crashes become the focus.

Unfortunately you can't ride the Ferris wheel

Showdown is a letdown for the series and a rather ordinary arcade racer. Its biggest failure is the sheer lack of good original content with tracks reused from its predecessors. Very few of the new modes provide more than casual enjoyment and some rely too much on luck. In Multiplayer, you’ll need to turn a blind eye to collision problems and grit your teeth through the unsatisfying game modes. At least the driving controls and visuals remain excellent. If you are still tempted by a destruction and racing combination, FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage is one better option. Showdown is an attractive jukebox with a few passable modes on a small number of new tracks.