DIRT 5 is an arcade-focused off-road racer that sends drivers across varied terrain and changing conditions. Its routes span gravel, ice, snow and sand, with locations ranging from New York to Brazil and Norway. That global setting gives the racing a broad visual scope, while the car roster covers rally vehicles, trucks, GT cars, buggies and other off-road machines.
The game pairs a star-led Career with local and online competition. In Career, players pursue sponsorships and rewards, race across locations and face a rival. Offline split-screen supports up to four players, including in Career, making shared play part of the main format rather than a separate racing novelty. Online, curated playlists accommodate up to twelve players, alongside objective-based modes.
Beyond the races, a livery editor lets players customize cars, and Photo Mode is built for capturing jumps and driving moments. Together with its mix of event formats, these creative tools round out a game whose identity combines accessible arcade racing, off-road variety and multiplayer competition.