Dale Earnhardt Jr. stands out as one of the few traditional drivers who has swiftly embraced the latest trends in NASCAR racing. One major innovation in recent years is the rise of simulation racing, particularly through platforms like iRacing, which has become the go-to simulator for the NASCAR community. However, enjoying iRacing requires a substantial setup, creating a gap in the market for a mobile racing game. Bryan Blackford seized this opportunity with his passion project, DRAFTYCAR. He had no idea that his mobile game would achieve such widespread popularity, even catching the attention of Dale Earnhardt Jr., who congratulated him on the game’s success.
DRAFTYCAR is a unique simulation game that mirrors the excitement of stock car racing. Unlike iRacing, players only need a mobile phone and the app to experience the thrill of racing. The game is available for free with ads, but users can opt for a one-time payment to enjoy an ad-free experience.
Dale Jr. discovered the game during his Xfinity race at Bristol Motor Speedway and was impressed by Bryan Blackford’s dedication to its development. Praising Bryan on his show, DJD, he said, “The thing about DRAFTYCAR is that it was developed by a single individual; I’ve known him for 20 years in sim racing. He has been posting about this project for a couple of years, and it’s really achieved more than he could have imagined. It’s a real app on the App Store.”
Bryan was overwhelmed by Dale Jr.’s endorsement and took to social media to share his gratitude, reflecting on his journey: “Ten years ago, I was in the hospital with severe burns, ready to give up. I’m glad I didn’t; dreams can come true.” Dale Jr. further recognized Bryan’s efforts, stating, “You created something fun and convenient around stock car racing. Bravo, Bryan.” The game features a career mode that simulates the entire NASCAR ecosystem, including sponsorship deals, loans, and racecar construction. One of the game’s standout qualities is its user-friendliness. “It’s not challenging; anyone can play it. It’s entertaining,” Dale Jr. remarked.
The backdrop of this story is a personal tragedy that struck one of Earnhardt’s fellow iRacing competitors. After a devastating loss, the individual expressed a desire to return to the sport, seeking both closure and a way to honor their loved one’s memory. Earnhardt, known for his camaraderie and support within the racing community, publicly backed this decision, emphasizing the importance of resilience and the healing power of racing.
However, the announcement has not come without controversy. Critics argue that returning to competitive racing, especially after such a personal loss, could be emotionally detrimental. They express concerns about the mental health implications and the pressure that comes with high-stakes racing. Supporters, on the other hand, praise Earnhardt for standing by his friend and advocate for the idea that racing can serve as a therapeutic outlet.
As the debate unfolds, one thing remains clear: Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s influence in the racing community is profound. His decision to support his friend reflects not only his character but also the close-knit relationships forged in the world of motorsports. Whether this comeback will be a triumphant return or a cautionary tale, it serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between personal struggle and the pursuit of passion.
While finding a solid NASCAR video game has become increasingly challenging, earlier fans had various options. The first significant title was “NASCAR Racing,” developed by Papyrus Design Group in 1994, which laid the groundwork for sim racing. It effectively captured the feel of the tracks and incorporated real-life events, even helping NASCAR Busch Series drivers (now Xfinity) practice for races. Denny Hamlin credited the game for his success at Pocono in 2006.
EA Sports also entered the fray with its series, starting with NASCAR 98, which continued annually until 2008. Initially released on platforms like PlayStation and Nintendo, it eventually expanded to Microsoft Windows and Xbox. However, EA and NASCAR eventually parted ways over licensing disagreements, halting the yearly releases. Eutechnyx attempted to fill the void left by EA’s exit with their own title, NASCAR: Inside Line, launched in 2012. They aimed to reach both mobile and PC gamers simultaneously, releasing a licensed game for iOS and on Steam in 2013. Despite this, iRacing has emerged as the preferred choice for NASCAR gaming enthusiasts, with Dale Jr. serving as executive director, helping to rally support from the traditional NASCAR fanbase.
Dale Jr. Sparks Debate by Supporting iRacing Buddy’s Stock Car Comeback After Heart-Wrenching Tragedy
