Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown Discussion Thread

[SestoScudo]

Really worried about this game, to be honest. And I'm pretty sure it's not an unpopular opinion. We only got a couple of CGI trailers with zero in-game footage, and I think at some point we got a couple of scenery screenshots with no cars supposedly from the actual game with (if I remember correctly) a post, which told us about a delay. And wasn't there also a promise to keep posting more about the game? Regardless, there was nothing since and it has been months. And now it seems like they are not even showing it on their big conference? And that is after their last conference, where it was probably the game they hyped the most. I think if they say nothing at all about Solar Crown this time we may not only forget about 2023 release but about the game at all.

I believe it will be stuck in development hell.

 

[McLaren]

Maybe after surprise announcement of The Crew 3, they stopped marketing plans and wait for them to give not anything for the concurrent. Or delayed it intern to 2024 ^^

Is that what The Crew Motorfest based on Oahu is? Because I've been getting a bunch of ads on it, and admittedly, it's gotten my interest. Also making me wonder what's going on with TDU; no news since October?

 

[FerrariF1GT]

Maybe after surprise announcement of The Crew 3, they stopped marketing plans and wait for them to give not anything for the concurrent. Or delayed it intern to 2024 ^^

I would not think that The Crew would have anything to do with Nacon’s/KT’s plans.

I’m not going to go out and think that the sky is falling simply because the game isn’t shown on the thumbnail.

 

[ICEYOU3]

Didn't they drop last gen ports for the game? They're probably reworking their code to run better on current gen.

 

[inCloud]

reworking their code to run better on current gen

Its same architecture and needs little to none adjustments, considering you doing multiplatform game. If there will be three racing games by the end of the year, all three will suffer. FM less because of gamepass, but for TDU and TC it would be devastating. Everyone should remember Blur/Split Second/NFSHP/GT5 release year.

 

[sirjim73]

Its same architecture and needs little to none adjustments, considering you doing multiplatform game. If there will be three racing games by the end of the year, all three will suffer. FM less because of gamepass, but for TDU and TC it would be devastating. Everyone should remember Blur/Split Second/NFSHP/GT5 release year.

Or more recently, look what happened with Grid Legends and GT7 (rightly or wrongly, the sales for the Grid game would surely have been higher without the poor timing of release).

 

[INEEDNAWZZZ]

They also had the unfortunate timing of coming out the same time as Elden Ring. Totally different game of course, but racing games have become even more niche in the years since TDU2's release. With the world economy the way it is, the gen pop seems less likely to pick up a new racing title unless its from a huge, pre-established franchise (GT, Forza and NFS being the big three, I'd argue).

 

[Mr Fahrenheit]

They also had the unfortunate timing of coming out the same time as Elden Ring. Totally different game of course, but racing games have become even more niche in the years since TDU2's release. With the world economy the way it is, the gen pop seems less likely to pick up a new racing title unless its from a huge, pre-established franchise (GT, Forza and NFS being the big three, I'd argue).

I'm not sure about how much world economy affected racing game audiences, but I agree on all other points. Racing games have definitely gotten more and more niche over time.

I think this one might have a chance though, Test Drive Unlimited name (I think) has some recognition even among non-racing game crowds.

 

[ICEYOU3]

There's new info on the game coming soon according to a subreddit post, finally something to look forward too! I haven't played Test Drive since PS2.

 

[Firehound427]

It's been a long time since we heard something about TDU Solar Crown (I definitely think they announced the game about a year too early), but they've just released a new blog post providing details of the car dealers and workshops.

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown - Solar Club Letter #1 - Car Dealers & Workshops - Steam News

Car acquisition, customization, and much more!

store.steampowered.com

To summarize the new details:

• 14 dealers in the game map, including dedicated dealers for Ferrari and Lamborghini
• A Workshop featuring performance modifications, handling tuning and a livery editor
• Modifications are unlocked through Reputation levels, and the two different factions (Streets and Sharps) will also have exclusive customization options
• Electric cars will be included in the game, with performance parts also available for them
• Finally, TDU Solar Crown will not be at the next Nacon Connect on March 9th, but more game info will be revealed through monthly newsletters

 

[MroczMR]

It's been a long time since we heard something about TDU Solar Crown (I definitely think they announced the game about a year too early), but they've just released a new blog post providing details of the car dealers and workshops.

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown - Solar Club Letter #1 - Car Dealers & Workshops - Steam News

Car acquisition, customization, and much more!

store.steampowered.com

To summarize the new details:

• 14 dealers in the game map, including dedicated dealers for Ferrari and Lamborghini
• A Workshop featuring performance modifications, handling tuning and a livery editor
• Modifications are unlocked through Reputation levels, and the two different factions (Streets and Sharps) will also have exclusive customization options
• Electric cars will be included in the game, with performance parts also available for them
• Finally, TDU Solar Crown will not be at the next Nacon Connect on March 9th, but more game info will be revealed through monthly newsletters

can't wait!

 

[GTboyz]

For a next gen only game, it looks like an early last gen IMO.

 

[ICEYOU3]

For a next gen only game, it looks like an early last gen IMO.

100% agree, but as long as the gameplay is addictive the graphics can be overlooked.

Also hope the C7 is in there as well...

 

[INEEDNAWZZZ]

I think it looks decent. Not quite the visual showpiece that Forza or GT is, but it did start as a cross gen title and KT aren't the biggest studio after all. The biggest surprise for me is the SLK55 returning. That's one of my favourite AMG models, and to see it in a 2023 release is certainly welcome.

 

[FT-1]

The graphics look better than adequate to me, I wasn't expecting the prettiest visuals given that KT are a relatively small studio compared to those working on more popular open-world racers.

The information released is pretty reassuring in the sense they have implemented features that made previous TDU games unique, especially the dealership and car buying experience. I look forward to hearing more!

 

[MroczMR]

If the gameplay and driving model will be decent. Than graphics really don't matter. I hope it will go with "more realistic" way than other titles on market. I would love to drive this with the wheel

 

[juanffy18]

Not bad, this or The Crew Motorfest. The spirit of TDU is back in the both games.

Car list from those images:

• Porsche 918
• Porsche 911R
• Shelby Cobra
• Apollo Intensa Emozione
• W Motors Fenyr
• Nissan 370Z
• Ford Mustang GT
• Ford Mustang 1967
• Chevrolet Corvette C1
• Mercerdes Benz SLK55 2008
• BMW I8
• Audi TTS

 

[sw3g005]

I agree with @GTboyz that it looks a bit dated, but besides the fact that the game is developed by a relatively small studio, "dated" doesn't amount to much graphically today. Yeah it doesn't look like Gran Turismo 7, but it still looks good.

Also, on another note, this (so far, atleast) appears to be a great example of a thesis I've held for a while - that there'll come a point where games on average will look realistic and good enough for devs to not see the point in developing graphics further and start focus on other stuff like gameplay. For (I think) alot of customers, myself included, this point was reached a surprisingly long time ago - it's just a matter of waiting for the devs to start realizing it. While yes this could just be the game being a work in progress, if what I said is the case then props to Kylotonn for coming to this conclusion themselves

 

[nukleabomb]

I agree with @GTboyz that it looks a bit dated, but besides the fact that the game is developed by a relatively small studio, "dated" doesn't amount to much graphically today. Yeah it doesn't look like Gran Turismo 7, but it still looks good.

Also, on another note, this (so far, atleast) appears to be a great example of a thesis I've held for a while - that there'll come a point where games on average will look realistic and good enough for devs to not see the point in developing graphics further and start focus on other stuff like gameplay. For (I think) alot of customers, myself included, this point was reached a surprisingly long time ago - it's just a matter of waiting for the devs to start realizing it. While yes this could just be the game being a work in progress, if what I said is the case then props to Kylotonn for coming to this conclusion themselves

I would agree that it looks good enough (not enough to be purely next gen) that they can prioritize gameplay but nothing I have seen or heard implies that there is revolutionary gameplay. If it is just Hong Kong Island like the marketing implies, it isn't even a big map like the old tdu games at 85km² (for reference fh4 is 72 km², fh5 is 107 km², tdu1 is 1500 km², tdu 2 is 2100 km², the crew 2 is 5000 km²). The houses aren't confirmed (it is implied that apartment studios will take their place, which is much less cooler).


The only unique things about it are rolling down windows and using indicators. Interior customization is also in crew 2 while every single open world racing game has upgrades and customization. This will also not have a big car list and will focus more on premium sports/supercars, so no ****boxes.

I know more competition is good but it seems like all this game will do is reinforce that crew and fh are top of their class by a big mile.



All that pessimism aside, the screenshots of the Map look great (layout wise), and if the MMO comments mean anything, it will be good dense and full of players online. I hope we can cosplay as an Uber delivery driver across the (dense looking) map for hundreds of hours.

 

[GTboyz]

I never really expect GT7 level graphics for this kind of game but come on, this is supposed to be next gen only. Gameplay wise, nothing that makes it sound revolutionary enough that they have to ditch last gen. The only hope is they make the handling realistic enough.

 

[ScottPuss20]

This new information is hardly mind-blowing but it's good to see that this game is being taken somewhat seriously. KT aren't just cashing in on the name alone.

 

[SestoScudo]

It's been a long time since we heard something about TDU Solar Crown (I definitely think they announced the game about a year too early), but they've just released a new blog post providing details of the car dealers and workshops.

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown - Solar Club Letter #1 - Car Dealers & Workshops - Steam News

Car acquisition, customization, and much more!

store.steampowered.com

To summarize the new details:

• 14 dealers in the game map, including dedicated dealers for Ferrari and Lamborghini
• A Workshop featuring performance modifications, handling tuning and a livery editor
• Modifications are unlocked through Reputation levels, and the two different factions (Streets and Sharps) will also have exclusive customization options
• Electric cars will be included in the game, with performance parts also available for them
• Finally, TDU Solar Crown will not be at the next Nacon Connect on March 9th, but more game info will be revealed through monthly newsletters

Please tell me this hints at performance or modifications which change the car to a different car.

In TDU the Ford Mustang GT can be turned into the Saleen.

 

[MroczMR]

I never really expect GT7 level graphics for this kind of game but come on, this is supposed to be next gen only. Gameplay wise, nothing that makes it sound revolutionary enough that they have to ditch last gen. The only hope is they make the handling realistic enough.

This is smaller studio with less money and ditching last gen will definitely help with optimization for Next gen consoles. Game looks fine nothing incredibly good but also not terrible. If it runs smoothly then I will be happy.

Also if they manage to add PSVR2 support it will be ultimate win for me, but probably not gonna happen.

 

[RaY29rus]

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown - Solar Club Letter #2 - Map & Exploration - Steam News

Exploring Hong Kong Island and much more!

store.steampowered.com

 

[SestoScudo]

I hope TDU Solar Crown has a diverse car list.

TDU was so diverse and variety lets not forget the odd ones like Noble, Farbound, B.Engineering Edonis, Wiesmann and the bloody Holden Efigy Concept.

 

[MagpieRacer]

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown - Solar Club Letter #2 - Map & Exploration - Steam News

Exploring Hong Kong Island and much more!

store.steampowered.com

Certainly sounds like a very comprehensive map, this is quite a promising update.

 

[Doomotron]

Certainly sounds like a very comprehensive map, this is quite a promising update.

Indeed, the scenery particularly in the countryside and coastline screenshots looks lovely.

 

[nukleabomb]

So HKI is confirmed? It is smaller than fh5's map then?


It seems like they are using gas stations as repair points for you car. Dynamic weather and day night cycle too. Speed traps and wrecks are a thing. 600km of roads and 14 districts.

 

[strela]

I hope TDU Solar Crown has a diverse car list.

TDU was so diverse and variety lets not forget the odd ones like Noble, Farbound, B.Engineering Edonis, Wiesmann and the bloody Holden Efigy Concept.

While the first TDU had a nice car list TDU2 was just bad. And from what we have seen so far TDU SC is more similar to the second one. More focus on European sports and hyper car, a small selection of American muscles, some SUV and again JDM nowhere to be seen.

 

[Famine]

This is the discussion thread for an article on GTPlanet:

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown’s 1:1 Hong Kong Island Features in Latest Developer Update​

Nacon has provided more new information on the upcoming Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown, with its latest monthly newsletter revealing more about its Hong Kong location...