Nitro Canyon

Nitro Canyon knows exactly what it is: a fast, forgiving arcade racer you can play in portrait with two thumbs. Drifting is the whole game, and it feels great once it clicks — the boost you build from a clean corner is what carries you.

Tracks are the highlight. The desert canyon routes have real verticality, with shortcuts you'll only spot on a second lap. I kept replaying tracks just to shave a couple of seconds.

The tilt-steering option is decent but I stuck with tap controls, which are more precise. Progression through car classes is steady and never felt like a grind.

What we liked

• Drift mechanics that reward practice
• Track shortcuts encourage replays
• Responsive tap controls in portrait mode