The newly released racing game "Project Motor Racing" promises a realistic driving experience by utilizing the engine from a farming simulator. Despite this technical foundation and a full price of €60 for PC and €70 for consoles (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S), the game suffers from significant problems that make it appear unfinished.

Scope and Game Modes

"Project Motor Racing" primarily focuses on GT championships, including GT3 and GT4 classes, as well as newer series like Hypercars. Unfortunately, the Le Mans circuit is missing, which is considered a significant drawback for a racing game of this kind. Overall, the game offers 14 to 16 tracks, including variations, featuring well-known classics such as the Nordschleife and the Nürburgring.

A central component is the career mode, which takes an innovative approach: Instead of progressing through predefined events, players are confronted with the economic realities of running a racing team. An initial budget must be carefully managed to cover entry fees and other costs. Sponsors offer diverse opportunities for fundraising, adding an interesting management component to the game without appearing overloaded.

Alternatively, players can start their own races, both in single-player and multiplayer modes. A free play mode allows for the configuration of practice, qualifying, and races. However, players without qualifying will always be placed in the last starting position, which is perceived as a disadvantage.

Driving Physics and Realism

The driving physics are highlighted as an outstanding strength of "Project Motor Racing." The vehicles convey a tangible weight and a realistic driving feel. Differences between individual vehicles, even within the same class (e.g., Aston Martin GT3 vs. Audi R8), are well represented.

The weather system realistically simulates the effects of rain on track characteristics, including the formation of puddles on uneven asphalt like the Nordschleife, which influences the racing line.

Another positive aspect is the ability to set driving aids such as traction control and ABS to "authentic." This allows for a true-to-life simulation where, for example, hypercars do not have ABS, while GT3 vehicles are equipped with it. This option significantly contributes to immersion.

The cockpit perspective is depicted as particularly realistic. Unlike many other racing games, the driver's arms and legs are not shown excessively prominently, and the camera work simulates finely tuned movements, such as the head tilting forward during braking or the helmet wobbling over curbs. These details enhance the feeling of actually being in the vehicle.

Serious Problems and Criticisms

Despite its strengths in driving physics, the list of problems in "Project Motor Racing" is considerable. The presentation is described as dull. The biggest problem is the artificial intelligence (AI), which is called "broken." Races often cannot be finished normally, as the AI stops on the track, performs unpredictable maneuvers, or teleports. This forces players to disable the damage model in order to drive at all.

The general game mechanics often feel unpolished, reinforcing the impression of an unfinished product. This is especially true for a full-price title. The menus are plain, replays are cumbersome to control, and graphical glitches occur.

The penalty system is criticized as arbitrary and simplistic. Players are already penalized for minor excursions onto the grass or for driving over curbs, while deliberately leaving the track to save time is not detected. There is a lack of intelligent assessment of whether an advantage was gained by leaving the track. This system, combined with the faulty AI that pushes players off the track, makes the game a "no-go."

Comparison with Alternatives

Compared to established racing games, "Project Motor Racing" offers a smaller scope at a higher price point upon release. Titles like "Automobilista 2," which is also based on the engine of the "Project Cars" series and was co-developed by creators with experience from that series, provide a more mature experience with better AI and more content. These alternatives are considered significantly better and more polished.

Conclusion and Outlook

"Project Motor Racing" possesses a promising foundation, particularly concerning its driving physics and some realism features. However, significant shortcomings, primarily the flawed AI and inadequate penalty system, make the game a disappointment at this time, especially considering its full price. The game would have been better suited for Early Access. It remains to be hoped that the developers will address the fundamental issues before new content is planned for 2026. Currently, "Project Motor Racing" is not a clear purchase recommendation and cannot compete with established rivals.