Dirt Trax FX is a Motocross racing game where players choose between 8 drivers with different characteristics to compete on 22 tracks. The tracks feature obstacles like mounds, ramps, pits, and water mud or ice. To navigate the motorbike through these obstacles, players use shoulder buttons to lean the bike and adjust the angle by pressing up or down.
The choice of Dirt Trax FX bike affects the game's speed and difficulty. Before the game begins, players can choose between four bikes, ranging from 50cc to 500cc, with the last one needing to be unlocked first. The chosen bike greatly impacts the game.
The game also features a "Rad Tag" mode where a timer ticks down and can only be stopped by hitting the opponent. The driver whose timer reaches zero first loses, adding an extra layer of challenge to the game.