Far more colorfully named than NASCAR, World of Outlaws is the pro league of sprint cars, and naturally, this game has its license, offering 15 real-life dirt tracks and 25 pro drivers ranging from Steve Kinser to Andy Hillenburg. World of Outlaws Sprint Cars offers sharp season and single-race action, but the heart of this game is its excellent Career mode. You start out as a rookie driver, and strong finishes earn you cash to buy upgrades, repairs, and better cars as you battle through the ranks of four different series. You’ll also attract sponsors, and grease monkeys can tune the nuts and bolts of their ride. The sweetly responsive controls and the beautiful feel to the handling are a huge part of what makes World of Outlaws’ gameplay so compelling. It’s definitely not an easy game, though, requiring an appreciation of tough, technical challenges. Sharp graphics supply great car models and detailed tracks, and while the sounds are respectable, they fall squarely in the “average” category. Like the remarkable Colin McRae series before it (which also delved into a niche sport), World of Outlaws deserves attention because of its captivating feel and deep features. Casual gamers, however, should rent this one first to make sure its technical, unique gameplay suits them.
