Should you buy NASCAR 25? First Weekend Review

It’s finally here, and everyone’s asking the same thing: Should you actually buy NASCAR 25? After a full opening weekend behind the wheel, the verdict isn’t as simple as “yes” or “no.” The game brings some serious improvements where it counts most — on-track — but other parts still feel like they’re in the pits waiting for updates.

• How good is the AI really, and does it finally feel like you’re racing real drivers instead of drones?
• Do the “sim-cade” physics strike the right balance between challenge and fun?
• Is the career mode worth your time, or just another checklist to click through?
• And what about those bugs and restarts — are they dealbreakers or just early growing pains?

NASCAR 25 feels like a title with strong bones — thrilling AI battles, surprisingly solid online play, and handling that can make even a casual fan grin. But career depth, pit logic, and some janky race starts keep it from fully crossing the finish line. Still, for players who just want to race and don’t mind a few rough edges, this might be the most fun console NASCAR game in years.

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