Grid Review – Free Download on Steam
The Grid series has undergone notable changes since its inception as a TOCA spin-off over a decade ago. In its latest iteration, simply titled Grid, Codemasters has chosen to return to the series’ roots, capturing the essence of its beginnings while infusing it with modern gameplay elements. Often referred to as Grid Junior, this new chapter combines the exhilarating thrills of arcade racing with just the right amount of challenge, delivering dramatic racing experiences in a contemporary format. Codemasters is well-known for its intense racing simulations like the F1 series and Dirt Rally, but Grid takes a different approach.
With adjustable settings, it can pose a significant challenge for players who underestimate their throttle control in tight corners. While the optional rewind feature is available, it’s essential to recognize that Grid is not a strict simulation like iRacing. Instead, it offers a responsive, engaging racing experience that leans toward fun, staying true to what made its predecessors so enjoyable. The handling model is designed to be accessible, yet it varies across Grid’s diverse vehicle lineup. For instance, GT cars provide a stable feel, while stock cars may be more prone to oversteer. The game effectively captures the unique characteristics of iconic vehicles, from the turbo lag of a Ford Sierra Cosworth to the downforce of specialized World Time Attack cars. Though there are tuning options, I primarily used them to gain an edge on oval tracks.
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Table of Contents
Grid Review
The Grid series has seen its fair share of moderate transformations since it first emerged from the TOCA spin-off franchise over ten years ago. In its latest iteration—simply named Grid—Codemasters has opted for a fresh start, returning to the essence of the series that began in 2008. This new chapter, often referred to as Grid Junior, embodies the spirit of its predecessor while balancing the exhilarating fun of arcade racing with a touch of challenge, providing thrilling and dramatic racing experiences wrapped in a contemporary package.
Codemasters has gained significant praise for its intense racing simulations like the F1 series and Dirt Rally, but Grid offers a different flavor altogether. With a few adjustments in the settings, it can certainly become a formidable challenge, enough to catch out players who misjudge their throttle control in tight corners. And while players can choose to avoid the optional rewind feature, it’s important to note that this is not a simulation like iRacing. At its core, Grid is a gripping, responsive racer that leans towards the arcade side of the spectrum, and it stays true to the essence of what made its predecessor so enjoyable. Driving it is simply a blast.
“Accessible” aptly describes the handling model, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach; there are distinct differences across Grid’s diverse array of vehicles. For instance, the GT cars feel solid and anchored, while the stock cars are a bit more prone to oversteer. The game captures the unique traits of some iconic vehicles, too—like the lag in a Ford Sierra Cosworth if the turbo isn’t kept in check, or the incredible downforce of specialized World Time Attack cars that land gracefully after catching air. While there are some tuning sliders available, I mostly adjusted them to squeeze out extra speed on oval tracks.
The car lineup has some gaps, but it offers a good variety of racing machinery. It would be great to see some new entries join the classic touring car roster, which is enjoyable but largely unchanged since Grid Autosport. Nevertheless, it’s exciting to see the return of brands like Ferrari, Porsche, and Holden after their long absences. One of my favorite aspects is how the cars appear rugged and battle-worn even as they line up for a race, showcasing scuffs, bits of rubber, and marks from previous events. They resemble race cars that have just come off a truck, not preserved relics in a museum, and I really appreciate that authentic feel. The sound design is decent, with subtle audio distinctions across different racing perspectives, but it can feel a bit muted at times.
Grid Rebirth: New Roads and Memories of the Past
Grid boasts 12 exciting racing locales, blending real-world and imaginative circuits, each with multiple configurations. Some tracks harken back to the original Grid, like the iconic San Francisco and Okutama, while others are brand new. Among the highlights are stunning street circuits set in Shanghai and Havana, along with China’s Zhejiang Circuit, which was still a construction site when Grid: Autosport launched in 2014. Notably, Australia’s Sydney Motorsport Park makes its long-awaited return to a Codemasters title, having been absent since 2006’s TOCA Race Driver 3/V8 Supercars 3.
- 12 unique locations with real and fictional tracks.
- The return of classic tracks such as San Francisco and Okutama.
- New exciting street races in Shanghai and Havana.
- Limited number of tracks compared to Grid Autosport.
- Impressive visuals and dynamic lighting.
However, the selection of tracks feels a bit sparse compared to its competitors. In fact, there are significantly fewer courses here than in Grid Autosport. The varied time-of-day lighting and impressive wet-weather effects help to alleviate this somewhat, and more locations are promised as free DLC in the future. Still, the limited number of tracks means you’ll be driving the same routes quite a bit during your career.
Visually, the tracks are stunning, especially at night when fireworks light up the sky. They are vibrant and full of life, shedding the muted tones that characterized earlier entries in the series. The street circuits, in particular, capture a lively atmosphere, complete with animated spectators who don their ponchos and pop up umbrellas when the rain starts, flinching at the slightest chance of a car veering their way. Grid structures its progression across various racing categories, each featuring different car classes. Players earn cash, purchase vehicles, and gain experience from a range of on-track accomplishments—nothing out of the ordinary.
Unlike Grid Senior, there’s no complex sponsorship management; your team dynamics are limited to hiring a single teammate from a growing pool of candidates as you advance in the main career mode. Fans of the series will appreciate the return of familiar names, adding a nice touch of nostalgia. Leveling up unlocks new teammates and some pre-made livery designs for your cars, although the lack of a custom livery editor feels a bit outdated compared to what many other racing games offer today. There’s also been buzz about F1 champion Fernando Alonso’s participation in Grid. However, the special events featuring him mostly mirror challenges you’ve likely encountered before, with Alonso appearing as one of the AI competitors. While it’s enjoyable, it doesn’t leave a lasting impression; it’s more of a neat addition than a standout feature.
Artificial Intelligence on the Grid: Hate on the Track and the Dynamics of Rivalry
The AI in Grid really deserves a special mention, and not just because it’s quick to react, realistic to drive, and actively participates in the races. Grid has a new system that allows rivals to get mad at you if you push them too much. They can now become your “foes,” which adds an interesting element to the gameplay dynamic. These foes aren’t afraid to take revenge when the opportunity presents itself, which makes every race more intense. When your rival becomes a foe, they get a temporary bonus to their driving skills, and at these moments they become especially motivated to return the favor. This adds a whole new layer of strategy: now you have to be careful not only about other drivers, but also about your teammates. If you push too much to get a boost, your teammate may start to hate you too. This can fuel their fighting spirit, but also make it harder for them to follow your commands.
- AI reacts quickly and actively participates in races.
- New enemy system adds strategy and dynamics to the game.
- Enemies receive time bonuses, increasing competition.
- Time rewind function reduces pressure from opponents.
- Each race is unique due to unpredictable consequences.
The return of the time rewind feature in Grid can take some of the pressure off the enemy system. If you choose to use it to undo the effects of a collision, it can reduce the impact of your interactions with your opponents. However, Grid’s focus on the fun of racing rather than harsh punishment makes for a more accessible and fun experience. I actually enjoyed the way the AI responded to my actions, and wasn’t shy about hitting the rewind button if they drove me into a wall. Interestingly, the enemies don’t stick around for long. They only last for a single race, meaning I wasn’t running into the same opponents throughout the season, looking for revenge for old grievances. This may seem like a downside, but it does help keep each race fresh and varied.
Each race in Grid feels like a unique experience, thanks to the AI not just following you around, but actively reacting to your actions. This creates a sense of real competition, where every collision can lead to unpredictable consequences. The idea that your rivals can become enemies adds an emotional charge that makes racing more exciting. Grid really succeeds in creating an atmosphere of intense competition on the track. Each race becomes not just a competition for speed, but a real battle for survival. This dynamic not only makes the game more exciting, but also gives players the opportunity to adapt and learn from their mistakes. The AI’s reactions to your actions add an element of strategy, where you need to think about every move to avoid becoming a victim of revenge.
Ultimately, interacting with enemies in Grid not only adds variety to the gameplay, but also creates unique moments where you can either strengthen your skills or fall into the abyss of failure. This balance between fun and challenge makes the game especially attractive to racing fans. This attention to detail in the AI and interactions with opponents shows that Codemasters is striving to create not just a race, but an entire world where your every action matters. And while the enemy system may sometimes seem like it adds unnecessary complexity, it actually enriches the game, adding new colors and emotions.
Grid: Exciting Races and Realistic Tracks in Hollywood Style
Grid manages to carve out its own unique niche among racing games. Yes, team management has become easier compared to previous parts, and the choice of tracks could be wider. But the game takes not quantity, but pure excitement. This is the case when racing brings maximum pleasure without unnecessary complications.
- Grid offers exciting gameplay without being too complicated.
- The racing atmosphere is a real show with bright lights and crowds.
- The “nemesis” system adds drama and tension on the track.
- The locations are detailed and unique, from Havana to Shanghai.
- Progressing in the game allows you to unlock new cars and settings.
Let’s be honest – no one expects Grid to be a strict simulation of motorsports. The final race can include prototypes flying through the hills of San Francisco at insane speeds, and although this is far from reality, it fully conveys the spirit of the game. If everything was real, the tracks would have already turned into chaos of wrecked cars and frightened spectators. But Grid is not about realism, but about spectacular, almost cinematic races, where the main priority is fun. The atmosphere here is top notch. The streets are full of bright lights, the engines are roaring, and crowds of fans react vividly to what is happening – they cheer, gasp, and watch every maneuver. Thanks to this, the races feel not just like races, but like a real show.
As for the gameplay, Grid is betting on tough, contact fighting. Here, no one is afraid of side collisions, and the fight for position is a real duel, where every maneuver can be decisive. AI opponents are not just extras – they are aggressive, cunning, and sometimes even vengeful. The game has a “nemesis” system, thanks to which racers offended by you will try to knock you off the track. This adds drama to the races – each fight can become the beginning of a real feud or unexpected rivalry. Yes, there are not many tracks in the game, but each one is made with love. The locations are worked out to the smallest detail, each with its own unique style – from the hot streets of Havana to futuristic Shanghai. Night races are especially cool – sparkling lights, fireworks, cars cutting through the darkness at breakneck speed. All this creates the feeling that you are participating in a spectacular racing festival.
The progression system is also pleasing – the more you race, the more cars and settings are unlocked. Yes, the team management here is not as deep as in some other series, but this is even a plus – you can focus on the main thing, on racing and adrenaline. As a result, Grid is not just a game, but a real race on emotions. It gives pure pleasure from speed, collisions and intense struggle. Here you do not need to think about fine-tuning the suspension or ideal trajectories – just step on the gas, turn on the music louder and enjoy.
System Requirements for Grid
Before diving into the thrilling world of racing in Grid, it’s essential to ensure that your hardware meets the necessary system requirements. The game offers a dynamic and visually stunning gameplay experience that requires specific resources to deliver smooth and engaging action. Minimum requirements will allow you to run the game at a basic level, though with some limitations on graphics and performance. In contrast, recommended requirements will provide higher image quality, smoother frame rates, and an overall enhanced gaming experience.
System Requirements
Pay attention to your PC’s components, such as the processor, graphics card, and RAM. Moreover, having a stable internet connection may be necessary for online play and downloading updates. Ensure you have enough disk space for installing Grid and any additional content. Properly configuring your hardware will help you enjoy every adrenaline-fueled race.
How to Play Grid for Free on Steam via VpeSports
Are you eager to experience the thrilling races of Grid without spending any money? You’re in luck! There are easy ways to access the game for free through our platform. We provide shared Steam accounts that come with Grid pre-installed via our Shared Steam service.
To kick off your racing adventure, head over to the VpeSports website and create an account. Once you’re logged in, explore the Shared Steam section, where you’ll find a variety of shared accounts. Look for Grid and click on its review page. Here, you’ll discover a download button that leads you to a detailed guide on how to access the game.
We’d love to hear your feedback, so feel free to leave a positive comment about our review! Just remember, comments are moderated, so if yours doesn’t get approved, consider adjusting it to align with our guidelines. Once approved, our moderators will send the account details to the email you registered with.
Alternatively, you can join our Telegram channel, Shared Steam Accounts VP, for another quick access option. By subscribing, you’ll receive updates and gain access to an account with Grid for free play. This method is great for staying informed about patches and new releases while enjoying the game.
If you encounter any issues, we have a comprehensive guide available on our website at the following link: How to Play for Free – Detailed Instructions!
One of the good racing game out there.