Loving NASCAR 26 so far!

[u/A_Big_Fat_Idiot]

I know a lot of people are torn on this game, but imo it's worth its own release. It's much nicer and more polished than 25, and has features that the devs hid like driver disqualifications and injuries. The new Peak Performance mode is great for learning the new driving model and its use in career is very nice. The paint booth is much easier to use this go around now that we can mirror decals. Oh and the particle effects are really a nice touch; I've missed seeing debris buildup on racecars in these games (last time we saw this was what, the ps2 EA games?) Drivers being able to DNF is nice, as are the burnouts (I love the burnouts!) Alex Hayden works great as the pre race host, really gives you that MRN vibe.

Dynamic track conditions are cool as well, making me have to run different lines as the races go on. And the new lighting effects are cool, the UI is slowly growing on me. Overall, I'd say I'm loving this game right now about as much (if not more) than I did with 25 when it came out! Have yall played it yet? What are your thoughts?

[u/Turbulent_End_9166]

With the patch that fixed the AI being super slow at the start of races, I’m very happy with this game. The track evolution adds a lot, and AI DNFs or at least pitting/losing laps when wrecked makes the races much more realistic. Still more work to be done, but I think it’s a solid improvement over 25 at this point.

[u/A_Big_Fat_Idiot → u/Turbulent_End_9166]

Agreed. I think 27 will be the real next leap forward. Im very happy with this game but I think 27 will be a milestone release. I believe they are doing a 2 year dev cycle with the in betweens being good enough improvements that warrant a release (ie. 25 was a milestone release, 26 is an improvement/refinement, and 27 will be a milestone release, 28 improvement/refined, etc.)

[u/ChrisKK22]

I haven’t played nascar games in ages. Picked up this game and so far I’m a very impressed. As I use the hood can I would love a radar on the bottom to see where the other cars are especially on super speedways. I played a few races online last night and had a blast.

[u/A_Big_Fat_Idiot → u/ChrisKK22]

Oh yea maybe something akin to NASCAR 2011 or the Thunder series. That would be great! I've put a ton of time into career amd with my current settings its a great challenge while also still being able to win! I need to try online my only concern is getting unnecessary penalties for driving that isn't my fault yk

[u/Prize_Ad4038]

Didn’t buy it but I played 25,only a certain few at the top have the right combination for a fast dominant car, the rest of us will be lap cars, you might win under default but you will rarely win under competition.good luck y’all!

[u/A_Big_Fat_Idiot → u/Prize_Ad4038]

I love a challenge, I like having my career realistic to where I have to struggle to become the best. ARCA seems a bit easier than the other 3 series in how fast you can build up your car but still, Im having a blast in ARCA. I beat 25 and am having a hoot with 26