Project Cars PS4 initial experiences. A couple of things first though:-
Apologies for the audio crackle on the video. This was captured using the PS4 share function and not my regular capture card.
This short 5 lap race was my first attempt at getting some footage of the game. I was using the helmet cam view and I found it pretty good. My only goal was a top ten finish based on my earlier practice time. I've waited a long time to play Project Cars so what do I think now I've finally got it?
I'm very impressed with the little I've seen so far. The racing is challenging and the AI, as you will see, do not take any prisoners, at least not in this class of racing. Graphically it is a very nice looking game and the audio is excellent too.
I haven't delved that deeply into the game yet as my initial couple of hours were spent experimenting with settings. I had to play with a controller as I'm waiting on a new wheel and although I'm not used to driving with a pad the game seems to be pretty well set up for it provided you can find some good settings. There are plenty of helpful posts online about that.
This race was not my first but it was my first where I didn't crash out repeatedly or roll in dead last. Yes, it's challenging at first and even coming from other driving games you will have a bit of a learning curve. For players who prefer to jump into vehicles and just drive (NFS, DriveClub, The Crew etc.) this game may not be your thing.
I chose to drive the Escort because it was my own first car (not an RS of course). The problem is that it is not an ideal car for a first time Project Cars player and proved a bit tricky to handle. If you want an easier option when you take your first steps, the Formula Rookie cars are great fun and the Clio Cup car is certainly easier to drive than some of the older touring cars.
After two and a half hours I'd messed around with a lot of the options and settings and driven a few miles around Brands, Cadwell Park, Donington and the fictitious California Highway. All were excellently done and look gorgeous as do the cars and the weather effects. The big grids are amazing.
This is no pushover game, you will need practice and skill to beat the AI even on less than 100% difficulty. In this race they were set at only 60% and I had turned on ABS and the driving line to help me out a bit as I learned the ropes. Don't be afraid to use the assists on offer when learning a game - they will save you a lot of early frustration in Project Cars if you are a player who expects to be winning straight out of the trap.
If you want a pure racing game and don#t shy away from challenges I'd highly recommend it despite some of the negative things you may have read. It's pretty damned good!
