This is a review of a game Dirt Rally 2.0. Dirt Rally 2.0 is a rally game developed by Codemasters for the Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, and PS4. The game is the 13th game in Colin McRae Rally series.

What is the game like to Play

Well, the first thing to say is this is not an arcade racer. The Colin McRae series is based on harsh realism and for new players, the first few races will be a huge struggle. Just to stay on the track, however, once you get to grips with the braking system drifting around corners, and balancing your speed trajectory, and planning for each turn up ahead you'll have a much more enjoyable experience.

You can race from in the cockpit for ultra-realism not just visually but also in terms of the sound impact. The rally tracks are vast and very challenging even at the start with various weather and terrain conditions adding to the intense and difficult night races. If you don't know anything about rally racing it's mainly a time trial type event you and your co-driver start at each checkpoint and get an update on your overall position. At the end of each stage, you'll have a chance to repair your car then it's off to the next race with rallies taking place over several stages to identify the eventual winner.

Game modes in Dirt Rally 2.0? Well, you've got the FIA World Rallycross championship, a free play mode, rally championships, historic races, and daily and weekly challenges. So, there's plenty here to keep you coming back with each race you gain experience and you can add that to upgrade your garage or your staffing.

Graphically, the game looks good throughout with excellent detail on the cars and varied and lush landscapes to race through. The menus are clear and easy to navigate with fantastic presentation throughout. Also, the car damage effects would feel realistic rather than being over the top like in destruction derby type games. The audio is fantastic from the detailed and accurate sounds coming from the rally vehicles to the voice of your co-driver and the menu narrator who breaks down what everything is. You will find the rally terminology a little bit of a struggle at first. It's all kind of rally jargon so if you're a rally fan you'll understand it if you're not, you'll be a bit like What's this?

What's Good and What's Bad

What's Good: It's a challenging but very rewarding experience. The car handling feels realistic and the cars are satisfying to drive. The game mode variety is extensive and it's one of the better racing games I've played in recent times.

What's Bad: It may be a bit too challenging for some gamers at the start and it requires a serious amount of concentration during the long rally stages.

What's the Verdict

Dirt Rally 2.0 is a very challenging and realistic rally simulation that ultimately provides a real sense of achievement as you progress through the ranks. When you finally get the hang of it and start flying through the dirt road tracks hanging off sheer cliff faces as you slide around the corner to take victory those moments are incredibly satisfying and enjoyable. It will take time and it's more a game for rally fans or driving purists if you're a casual racing fan who likes more arcade-type games this definitely won't be for you. However, if you're up for the challenge and are prepared to put in the hard work you'll be rewarded with a thoroughly enjoyable racing experience.