Nitro Canyon Drift

Nitro Canyon Drift is pure arcade joy. Forget realistic physics — this is about sliding sideways through a canyon at absurd speed and feeling like a hero. The drift mechanic is forgiving enough to learn quickly but has a high ceiling if you want to chase perfect times.

I tested three control schemes and settled on tilt steering with an auto-accelerate option, which freed up a thumb for the boost button. It just clicks once you get the rhythm of tapping the brake to initiate a slide.

The tracks are varied and the sense of speed is excellent. Progression through new cars feels fair, and time trials kept me coming back long after I'd finished the main circuit.

What we liked

• Forgiving but deep drift mechanic
• Real sense of speed
• Multiple control schemes that all work