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Project CARS (PS4) Review
Developer: Slightly Mad Studios
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Genre: Racing / Simulation
Release: 2015
Project CARS is a serious racing simulation designed around one central idea: put the focus on driving rather than grinding for cars and upgrades. Instead of locking vehicles and tracks behind progression, the game gives players an enormous amount of content from the beginning and lets them decide how they want to race.
The result is an ambitious and highly detailed racing game that rewards patience and skill. It can be intimidating for newcomers, but once the handling, assists and tuning are understood, Project CARS delivers some of the most convincing racing available on PS4.
Gameplay & Mechanics
Project CARS is considerably more simulation-focused than arcade racers. Cars behave differently depending on their class, tyres, weather, track conditions and setup.
The handling model is one of the game's biggest strengths. A lightweight kart feels completely different from a GT car, prototype or open-wheel machine. Braking points, throttle control and cornering lines all matter, particularly when driving without assists.
The game also includes extensive tuning options covering areas such as suspension, tyres, gearing and aerodynamics.
Strengths:
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Excellent physics and vehicle handling.
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Wide range of racing disciplines.
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Detailed tuning system.
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Realistic tyre and fuel considerations.
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Damage and mechanical variables add tension.
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Extensive driving assists allow difficulty to be customised.
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Strong wheel support.
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Excellent weather and track-condition systems.
Weaknesses:
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Steep learning curve.
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Controller setup can require considerable adjustment.
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Default settings aren't ideal for everyone.
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Tuning can be overwhelming for casual players.
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AI behaviour can occasionally be inconsistent.
The game rewards precision rather than simply driving as quickly as possible. Overdriving the car can result in lost traction, damaged tyres or missed braking points.
Track Design & Racing
One of Project CARS' greatest strengths is its selection of real-world circuits.
The game includes famous venues such as Silverstone, Brands Hatch, Nürburgring, Spa-Francorchamps and Monza, alongside road courses and other racing locations.
The tracks are highly detailed and feature changing conditions that can dramatically affect a race.
Dynamic weather and time-of-day progression are particularly impressive. A race can begin in bright daylight and gradually transition into rain or darkness, forcing you to adapt your driving and potentially change tyres or pit strategy.
This creates a much more authentic racing experience than simply selecting a weather effect before a race.
Final Verdict
Project CARS is an ambitious racing simulator that prioritises authentic driving over progression and rewards. That philosophy makes it different from many console racers, and while it won't appeal to everyone, it works remarkably well for players who want a more serious racing experience.
The handling is the star of the show. Cars feel distinct, weather affects grip and visibility, tyres matter, and mistakes can quickly ruin a race. The enormous variety of racing disciplines also ensures that there is always another type of car to learn.
Its career system is more divisive. The freedom to choose almost any discipline from the beginning is excellent, but the lack of a traditional garage, currency and car-unlocking system can make progression feel less satisfying. The game's complexity can also be a barrier to newcomers.
Nevertheless, once you overcome the learning curve, Project CARS becomes a highly rewarding simulator. Its combination of excellent physics, detailed tracks, dynamic weather, extensive tuning and varied motorsport makes it one of the more serious racing experiences available on PS4.
For simulation enthusiasts, Project CARS is particularly easy to recommend. For players looking for an arcade-style racer with instant gratification, it may require considerably more patience.
Score: 8.5/10
