Title: DiRT 4
Developer: Codemasters
Publisher: Codemasters
Platform: PC, Xbox One, Playstation 4
Genre: Racing/Simulation
Price: £44.99 / $59.99 MSRP

System specification for review:

Intel Core i5 6600K
16GB RAM
NVIDIA GTX 1070

Codemasters are back with DiRT 4, released on the PC, PS4 and Xbox One. Following in the footsteps of DiRT Rally, they’ve decided to step away from the hardcore driving required by DiRT Rally and instead offer a much more accessible platform for those hoping to equip the knobbly tyres and hit some corners at maximum attack.

One of the biggest features added to DiRT 4 is the ‘Your Stage.’ This tool allows the user to very quickly build a completely unique race track with the use of just two sliders; one for length and one for complexity. This offers an almost unlimited amount of stages to be created, further embracing the sheer terror of off-road rally driving.

Another big addition is the DiRT Academy, offering a driving school alongside a three million square feet playground, from which many of the in-game tasks and challenges are set out from.



Once set up and going, you would be hard pressed not to instantly notice the beauty of the surroundings. Codemasters have really pulled it out of the bag this time, with the lighting and details being incredible! The reflections from other cars, the sunlight breaking through the trees, even the crowds look better, instead of their 2D counterparts from previous games. Another thing to note is the fog, this is unlike any other game, making the rally stage you’re currently blasting through absolutely terrifying.

Audio has also been absolutely nailed with DiRT 4, the pops and bangs from the red hot exhaust along with the whistle of a blow-off valve when lifting are all excellent. The gravel scuttling along the underside of the car sounds perfect, giving a true feeling of how quickly you’re approaching the coming bend.

Physics and aero both feel vastly improved, with weight transfer being properly pronounced and grip being very predictable and consistent. Codemasters have clearly put a lot of work into this area.

Veterans to the Colin McRae franchise will remember Welshman, Nicky Grist, he’s back and better than ever, providing you with pace notes along with a dash of nostalgia. Canadian, Jen Horsey, also accompanies you through the forests.

Codemasters on DiRT 4: