Xbox 360 Critic Reviews

Varied events, sparkling social challenges, and rowdy online skirmishes make Dirt Showdown the rare spinoff that's as amazing as its much-loved predecessor, albeit in its own unique way. It's an absolute blast throughout, and proof that accessible, arcade-style thrills and spills can still deliver via superb execution.

Not since the old days of Psygnosis' Destruction Derby games have we been able to really go in and trash cars for the sake of trashing cars.

Do not be fooled by Showdown coming just a year after Dirt 3. This is an excellent game that easily stands on its own. If you are looking for an accessible title to play alone or with friends all the while having an absolute blast then Dirt Showdown is a no brainer purchase.

Codemasters has delivered once again with DiRT Showdown. It's another superlative racer, even if it is a little one note. Unapologetically brash, bold and loud, DiRT Showdown is Codemasters' racing id unleashed. And it's freakin' great.

Dirt Showdown is certainly a different type of racer, trading bumpy wheel-to-the-road driving mechanics for the dents, scrapes, and screams of vehicular mayhem. In some ways, it feels more like an expansion pack than an all-new game, but if you don't take this departure too seriously, it makes for some great summer parties online.

In the end, DiRT Showdown is an outstanding game and probably the most polished demolition-style racer out there. Online play is surprisingly smooth, and outside of relatively small issues like needing login data for Youtube and Codemasters' own Racenet service nearby, there isn't much I didn't enjoy about the experience as a whole. It's definitely a worthwhile purchase for either fans of the DiRT franchise or of demolition racers in general.

The "Showdown Tour" is long enough to have hours of fun and it can be played on three different modes: "Destruction", "Style" and "Race". Multiplayer mode played online is essential to have a good experience with that game.

Unfair at times, but the throwaway metal mayhem is a welcome diversion for the series. [July 2012, p.70]

What if Dirt 3 becomes a Destruction Derby-style game? The answer is an experiment known as "Dirt Showdown", an excellent arcade racing game.

Codemasters adds a "Destruction Derby Twist" to the core formula of its rally series. The result is a fast-paced arcade, capable to entertain every fan of the genre with an accessible driving system.