Last week, Team VVV was fortunate enough to get some seat time with Project CARS 2, testing out the recently announced inclusion of the Red Bull Ring. There was a catch though: recorded video would be done with a controller instead of the expected sim racing rig.
While not an ideal setup for those looking for the final word on immersion, the controller implementation is nonetheless very important, as it’s what the majority of players are expected to be using when the game launches later this year.
The results are a bit of a mixed bag. The video talks about the over-sensitive controller inputs, resulting in the frequent over-correction and fish-tailing on screen. However, it is also stated that a large improvement over the original Project CARS has definitely been made, with just the unpredictability mid corner being the only real concern.
The visual side of Project CARS 2 receives far more unanimous praise, with constant compliments towards the liveliness of the rendition of the Austrian circuit, as well as the stunning 24-hour day-to-night transition (sped up for the preview).
Slightly Mad Studios has opted for a more colorful feel for the track, as opposed to the more subdued color palettes of the Gran Turismo 6 and Assetto Corsa offerings. The race taking place in autumn surely helps. Occasional pop-in of objects and textures does occur in this early build, however.
A contrast of the AI between the RallyX and GT disciplines is also noted. Drivers show far more courtesy when racing on the tarmac, as opposed to the rough ‘n’ tumble nature of RallyX. An issue with the AI racers is brought to light in the video: there does seem to be a glitch with the pack shifting down to post-race cruising speed too early.
Project CARS 2 is showing a lot of promise. The improved controller implementation is sure to please many after the complex setups required in the original. With release set for “late 2017”, we hope the niggles mentioned in the video can be addressed before copies land on shelves.
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