NASCAR Heat 5 - PlayStation 4 - Authentic 2020 Racing

In this review of NASCAR Heat 5 for PlayStation 4 the bottom line is simple: this is the best pick for players who want an accessible, official NASCAR experience that covers the full 2020 season. It puts players behind authentic cars and drivers across 38 tracks and delivers a focused career mode, split screen and online multiplayer. The game is especially compelling for fans who want licensed teams and a variety of series without a steep simulation learning curve.

Key Features

• Official 2020 Content: Includes all official tracks, teams, cars, drivers and the 2020 schedule across four NASCAR series so races feel authentic.
• Career Mode and Progression: A full, immersive career challenges players to become the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion while managing team-building elements.
• Multiple Series and Tracks: Race in the Cup Series, XFINITY, Truck Series and the fan-favorite Extreme Dirt Tour across 38 authentic tracks for varied racing environments.
• Multiplayer Options: Split screen for local head-to-head play and online multiplayer let friends compete together on the same console or over the network.
• Test Session Mode: A new test session mode helps players tune setups and learn tracks before committing to races or the career.
• Pre-order Bonus: Pre-ordering grants a free Career Booster Pack and in-game cash to help build your own team early in the career.

Who It's For

NASCAR Heat 5 is for players who want an official NASCAR title that emphasizes accessible arcade-like racing with realistic cars and licensed content. It suits fans of the sport who care about accurate teams and season schedules and those who enjoy both solo career progression and local split screen with friends.

Players seeking a hardcore simulation with ultra-realistic handling and telemetry may want to look elsewhere, as this game leans toward a more approachable racing experience. Likewise, those who need extensive esports integration or pro-level setup tools may find the offering more casual than specialist racing sims.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Official 2020 NASCAR content delivers faithful teams, drivers and tracks for fans.
• Accessible gameplay that many players describe as fun and immediately engaging.
• Split screen and online multiplayer provide flexible options for local and network play.
• Pre-order bonuses help jump-start a career with in-game cash and a booster pack.

Cons

• Controls receive mixed feedback and may feel less precise to players who expect simulation-level handling.
• Some players looking for a deeper simulation experience may find the game too arcade-like.

Specifications

Our Verdict

NASCAR Heat 5 for PlayStation 4 is a strong choice for NASCAR fans who want licensed content, accessible gameplay and both local and online multiplayer. It provides excellent value for players who prioritize authentic teams and tracks and enjoy a career mode without a steep simulation barrier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this include real 2020 teams and drivers?
Yes. The game features all official 2020 NASCAR tracks, teams, cars and drivers across four series.

Can you play split screen with a friend?
Yes. Split screen multiplayer is supported so two players can race on the same console.

What do pre-orders include?
Pre-orders include a free Career Booster Pack and in-game cash to help build your team early in the career.