Project Motor Racing: A Review of Its Current State
The spiritual successor to Project CARS, Project Motor Racing, has arrived in 2025, promising to be a racing sim that many console players have been eagerly awaiting. However, despite its potential, the game currently faces a multitude of issues that have left players and critics alike somewhat disappointed.
The game's engine, which is typically associated with the Farming Simulator series, feels ill-suited for a racing sim. Graphically, it appears outdated with flat lighting and low-detail track environments, falling short of the visual standards set by Project CARS 2 in 2017. While graphics aren't the sole determinant of a game's success, the handling mechanics present a mixed bag. Some older cars, particularly those with a slidey, throttle-driven style, feel relatively natural. The car selection is an impressive mix of eras in sportscar and GT racing, offering a diverse range of historic options.
However, post-2001 cars, especially the Hypercar class, are a challenge due to a sense of disconnection from the asphalt. Even with force feedback adjustments, these cars handle unpredictably, resembling a broken shopping trolley. The penalty system is overly punitive, with instant two-second penalties for track limits, often deciding multiplayer races based on minor off-track excursions. The single-player career mode, while intriguing, is marred by AI cars that seem oblivious to your presence, leading to frustrating collisions.
Despite these issues, there are glimpses of the game's potential. The game occasionally offers moments of enjoyment, such as navigating the Craner Curves at Donington Park, showcasing the developer's vision. However, the overall experience is hindered by a sense that it's still a work in progress, with a mountain of issues overshadowing the potential.
The game's future remains uncertain, but players are hesitant to become guinea pigs, as the current state of Project Motor Racing leaves much to be desired.
