DiRT is back and it's better than ever!
A small mistake in this game can cost you the whole race or rally. Luckily, you have the flashback system. It lets you go back in time and rectify your mistake. Whether you're almost on the edge of falling off a cliff in Finland or totaling your car by crashing into the wall because of a mistake in nailing a corner, the game always keeps you on your toes. There are many assists if you find it difficult in handling the car. The new gymkhana events are very addictive. Pulling off 'donuts' and spins can have an immensely satisfying effect.
One of the main reasons I liked this game a lot is because of the environments. They totally immerse you into the game. Each place has it's own unique feel. Whether it's the dry and sunny tracks in Kenya or the lush, green forests of Finland, you always get the urge to stop and look your surroundings. The weather system also works great. You can see the raindrops on the cars' exterior and water splashes on your car's windshield when you drive through a puddle. The cars themselves are a treat to look at.
The damage physics look great too. Taking too much damage turns your car into a heap of scrap metal on four wheels.
The rumble of the cars' engines sound convincing. You can also hear the grinding of metal when your car trades paint with another car. The soundtrack offers some soothing electro during the main menus and the loading screen and some rock and electro tunes during the menus before the race begins. There are three people who tell you about the basics of the game. The voice-acting was okay but I thought the American guy was annoying because of his extremely bad Spanish. The same guy also pesters you to post videos on Youtube after every race. Overall the sound area is solid and I won't be surprised if it gets some 'Best Sound Effects' awards.
The game has a lot of content. There are 100+ racing events and over 50 cars. Cars include buggies, cars from the 60s,70,80s,90s, trucks etc. The sheer amount of content will iensure that you stay glued to your seat for weeks. This is the type of racing game I've been waiting for a long time. DiRT 3 is definitely a 'Game of the Year' nominee for me.