In last year's version, even when using the easier settings with the computer assists turned on, there was a steep learning curve just to hold the line with your car around the track at a representative speed, let alone race against the aggressive AI. This year, the driving model is much more accessible. Serious simulation fans can still ramp up the challenge, but the more casual fan will be able to drive respectably and race reasonably well with much less tweaking, time, and frustration.

There are plenty of set up options and assists available for drivers of any experience to find a comfort level. The cars can be set up as well, either by using the four basic sliders (gearing, handling, downforce, suspension) or by using the advanced options that offer over 40 settings that gear heads can tweak and try out in the Test and Tune mode. The driver AI is improved, too. Your opposition won’t try to drive through you, and they’ll tend to hold their line appropriately and pass appropriately, save the occasional occurrence of them holding the line blindly to your pass underneath. It doesn’t happen too often, though.

The main game mode is the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, which is the career mode, although picking your favorite driver and racing a season is also available. You can play a full schedule, a customized or shortened schedule, or jump right to the Chase for the Cup. The Craftsman Truck series, Nationwide Series, and Sprint Cup series with all of their licensed tracks are available for your career, although you can’t jump right into the Nationwide series or the Sprint Cup series without earning some Reputation Points first.

Based on the number of reputation points you have, you’ll earn sponsorship and team contract offers. As your points rise, more offers come in. You earn points any time you race your created driver and created car, and they’re awarded based on your performance. You also earn Performance Points which can be used to upgrade your car’s performance on the four different types of tracks (Superspeedway, Speedway, Short Track, and Road Course). A good way to pile up some points prior to starting your career is to spend some time completing a portion of the 77 Sprint Driver Challenges, They will improve your driving skills as well. Your ultimate goal is to work your way through the sponsorships and teams to earn an offer from Jeff Gordon himself.

NASCAR 2009 is a no-brainer purchase for fans of the sport, but also offers a high quality experience that any racing fan can enjoy. The game serves both arcade racing fans and simulation fans very well, with enough variety in the racing series, course types, and driver challenges to keep it interesting and entertaining.

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