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CRITIK

Driveclub

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Driveclub
Item: Driveclub
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2014

GenresAction, Third Person Perspective, Simulation, Top-Down Perspective, Vehicular, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing, First Person Perspective

AvailableOct 7, 2014

PlatformPlayStation 4

DeveloperEvolution Studios

Overview

DRIVECLUB brings to life the heart and soul of car culture. An incredible, authentic and immersive PS4 driving experience, DRIVECLUB makes you feel the exhilaration of driving the most powerful and beautifully designed cars in the world; all rendered in staggering detail, inside and out as you race them in richly detailed real-world locations alongside your Club.

Elsewhere

6.9

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

story and narrative

Description unavailable

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

70%

Mixed (50-79)

25%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Driveclub are varied, with several positive aspects highlighted. Critics such as Brash Games and Digital Chumps praise the immersive and entertaining gameplay, with responsive controls and a rewarding driving experience. Digital Chumps specifically mentions the diverse handling characteristics of the cars, providing a realistic driving experience. Game Informer appreciates the online challenges and face-offs that keep the gameplay fresh, while GameTrailers emphasizes the focus on improving driving skills and the engaging multiplayer races. On the other hand, some critics point out negative aspects of the gameplay in Driveclub. COGconnected criticizes the lack of depth in the hybrid arcade/sim style gameplay, mentioning frustrating AI and narrow tracks. Eurogamer Italy notes the limited selection of circuits and vehicles, while Impulsegamer describes the gameplay as limited and dull, lacking customization options and connection between the player and the vehicles. God is a Geek raises concerns about the inconsistent penalties for collisions and corner cutting, impacting the overall racing experience. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards Driveclub offering a balanced mix of arcade and simulation elements, providing engaging challenges and a strong multiplayer component. Critics like Eurogamer Portugal and Vandal appreciate the gameplay for combining different driving experiences, engaging challenges, and a focus on community interaction. While there are criticisms regarding the lack of depth, inconsistent penalties, and aggressive AI behavior, the majority of critics acknowledge the game's solid driving model, variety of events, and the balance between realism and accessibility. Driveclub seems to cater to a wide range of players, offering a competitive and rewarding driving experience with room for improvement in certain gameplay aspects.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Driveclub's gameplay receives mixed reviews from critics: praised for its immersive experience, responsive controls, and diverse car handling, but criticized for lack of depth, limited circuits/vehicles, and inconsistent penalties. Overall, the game offers a balanced mix of arcade and simulation elements with engaging challenges and a strong multiplayer component, appealing to a wide range of players despite some shortcomings.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

79%

Mixed (50-79)

21%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics unanimously praised the graphics and visual design of Driveclub, highlighting its impressive attention to detail and stunning visuals. Critics such as 3DJuegos, Brash Games, and COGconnected commended the game for its realistic environments, detailed car models, and gorgeous backdrops. IGN even went as far as calling Driveclub the best-looking racing game on a console, emphasizing the remarkable attention to detail in car design and track environments. The game's lighting effects, day-night cycles, and dynamic weather were also widely appreciated, with critics like Digital Chumps and Eurogamer Portugal noting how these elements enhanced the overall immersive experience. On the downside, some critics pointed out minor flaws in Driveclub's graphics and visual design. Eurogamer Italy mentioned challenges in lighting management, while Eurogamer Spain noted the limited content in terms of circuits and vehicles. Gamestyle criticized the presentation for feeling bland and lacking style, and God is a Geek highlighted issues with distant backdrop visuals looking muddy and low-res. GameTrailers did not mention much about the visual design, indicating a lack of emphasis on certain aspects of the graphics. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the graphics and visual design of Driveclub. The game is widely praised for its stunning visuals, attention to detail in car and environment designs, and immersive atmospheres created through dynamic lighting and weather effects. Despite some minor criticisms regarding limited content, presentation issues, and minor visual flaws, the majority of critics agree that Driveclub delivers a visually impressive and engaging experience for players. IGN's glowing endorsement of Driveclub as the best-looking racing game on consoles encapsulates the general sentiment shared by many reviewers regarding the game's exceptional graphics and visual design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics rave about Driveclub's stunning graphics and visual design, praising its attention to detail and realistic environments. IGN hails it as the best-looking racing game on consoles. While some critics note minor flaws like lighting issues and limited content, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive for Driveclub's impressive visuals and immersive experience.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

53%

Mixed (50-79)

41%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The Sound Design and Music of Driveclub have received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Many reviewers praised the immersive sound effects and notable soundtrack options in the game. 3DJuegos highlighted the option to play with or without music, while Brash Games mentioned the impressive sound design providing fantastic feedback and enhancing the overall experience. Gameplanet also commended the fantastic sound design, specifically mentioning the engine and tire sounds. IGN appreciated the exceptional car sounds and attention to detail in capturing them, enhancing the overall racing experience. TheSixthAxis even went as far as to say that Driveclub sets a new bar for car sound recreation, with incredible audio work that shines during races when the soundtrack is turned off to highlight the impressive sound design. On the negative side, some critics found the music selection to be lackluster or disappointing. Game Over Online and Impulsegamer both criticized the soundtrack, with the former stating it was not good, and the latter describing it as boring and uninspiring. Game Revolution and Push Square also mentioned the lackluster music selection, but Game Revolution did not provide further details on the sound design. Softpedia found the included soundtrack to be disappointing despite praising the well-simulated sound design for the cars and their interactions with the road. Slant Magazine noted the lack of in-game music while praising the tire-squealing sound effects. Vandal mentioned that the music might become repetitive, indicating a potential drawback in the overall audio experience. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the positive side regarding the Sound Design of Driveclub. The immersive sound effects, quality engine roars, and attention to detail in capturing car sounds were widely appreciated. Critics like GameSpot, GamingTrend, and Guardian praised the visceral and satisfying sound effects, while Multiplayer.it commended the audio, especially the engine sounds, for enhancing the overall experience. Despite some criticisms towards the music selection, the majority of reviewers found the sound design to be superlative, impressive, and enhancing the gameplay experience. Driveclub seems to have successfully created a captivating auditory experience that immerses players in the world of high-speed racing, earning accolades for its exceptional sound design.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Driveclub's sound design and music received a mix of feedback from critics. Positive reviews highlighted the immersive sound effects, notable soundtrack options, and exceptional car sounds. Some critics found the music selection lackluster, criticizing it as boring or repetitive. Overall, critics praised Driveclub's sound design for enhancing the gameplay experience, setting a new standard for car sound recreation, despite some negative feedback on the music selection.

Voice Acting

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voice acting

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Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

24%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the positives for Driveclub's technical performance on the PS4, several critics highlighted the game's stable performance and smooth gameplay experience. Gameplanet praised the game for running flawlessly at a responsive and rock-solid 30 frames per second, while Brash Games mentioned that the lower frame rate did not affect the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, Multiplayer.it positively noted the improved technical aspects and controller support, as well as the positive reception of the PlayStation Plus edition. On the downside, some critics pointed out various technical issues affecting the gameplay experience on the PS4. Eurogamer Portugal mentioned that the game was delayed and lacked some features at launch, while Game Revolution highlighted issues with rubber-band AI, narrow tracks, and collision penalties that could impact technical performance and stability. Gamereactor Sweden also criticized the frustrating penalty system, invisible barriers, and limitations in frame rate, indicating technical shortcomings that affected the overall experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding Driveclub's technical performance on the PS4 is mixed. While some reviewers like Gameplanet and PSX Extreme praised the game for its stable performance and technical achievements, others such as Game Revolution and Gamereactor Sweden pointed out various technical issues that detracted from the overall experience. The ongoing server issues mentioned by several critics, including 3DJuegos and Push Square, also contributed to a less than perfect technical performance for the game. Despite these criticisms, Driveclub was generally acknowledged for its potential and expected improvements, as noted by Eurogamer Portugal and Digitally Downloaded, suggesting that the technical issues could be addressed in future updates to enhance the overall gameplay experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics have mixed opinions on Driveclub's technical performance on the PS4. Some praise its stable 30 fps gameplay and improved aspects, while others criticize issues like rubber-band AI and server problems. Despite its flaws, reviewers see potential for improvement in future updates.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

34%

Mixed (50-79)

53%

Negative (0-49)

13%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

In terms of positives, Driveclub is widely praised for its strong emphasis on social interaction and community engagement, which significantly contributes to its replay value. Critics like 3DJuegos, Digital Chumps, and Eurogamer Italy highlight the game's social features, such as challenges, clubs, and leaderboards, as key elements that keep players engaged and motivated to compete. The variety of events, challenges, and multiplayer modes, as mentioned by Brash Games and Game Revolution, offer a diverse and rewarding gameplay experience. Additionally, the continuous updates and new content delivery, as noted by PlayStation LifeStyle and Softpedia, ensure that players have fresh challenges and experiences to look forward to, enhancing the game's longevity. On the negative side, some critics express concerns about the limited replay value of Driveclub. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Slant Magazine mention drawbacks such as the absence of weather conditions, lack of customization options for cars, and difficulty in earning Fame points, which may deter long-term engagement. The underutilization of certain features like Fame points, as pointed out by Push Square, and the thin single-player content, as noted by Eurogamer, also contribute to the game's perceived shortcomings in terms of replayability. Issues with setting up races between clubs, as highlighted by Gamestyle, and the lack of stats and recognition for individual club members, as mentioned by Game Informer, are additional factors that detract from the overall replay value of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the replay value of Driveclub is mixed. While the game excels in providing a competitive and engaging social experience through challenges, clubs, and multiplayer races, there are concerns about the limited customization options, underutilized features, and thin single-player content that may impact long-term engagement. Despite these drawbacks, Driveclub manages to offer a compelling racing experience that thrives on player engagement and community-focused gameplay, as emphasized by Eurogamer Spain and Eurogamer Portugal. The continuous updates and potential for inter-club rivalries, as mentioned by Guardian and GamesBeat, indicate that Driveclub has the potential to maintain player interest over time, especially with its strong emphasis on social competition and achievement.

TL;DR

replay value

Driveclub receives praise for its social features like challenges and leaderboards, enhancing replay value. Critics appreciate diverse gameplay and continuous updates but criticize limited customization and thin single-player content. Mixed opinions on replay value due to underutilized features and difficulty in earning points. Despite drawbacks, Driveclub offers engaging social competition and potential for lasting player interest.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

31%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the opinions of the critics, it is evident that Driveclub received praise for several aspects of the game. Critics such as Brash Games, Digital Chumps, and Gameplanet commended the game for its impressive graphics, sound design, and social connectivity features. The visuals were particularly highlighted by Eurogamer Portugal and Vandal as visually stunning, immersing players in engaging racing experiences. The game's focus on competition, skill-based gameplay, and authentic car handling was also appreciated by critics like GamesBeat and GamingTrend, offering a solid experience for dedicated racing game enthusiasts. On the other hand, Driveclub faced criticism from various reviewers for its shortcomings and areas that needed improvement. Critic Game Over Online expressed disappointment in the game, suggesting that it did not live up to its full potential and recommending consumers to opt for the PS+ edition or wait for a price drop. Eurogamer and Metro GameCentral criticized the game for lacking passion, innovation, and personality, with Metro GameCentral even going as far as calling it soulless and forgettable. Issues such as technical problems, lack of customization, repetitive tracks, and inconsistent difficulty gates were also highlighted by critics like Impulsegamer and GamesBeat, impacting the overall experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding Driveclub is mixed. While the game received praise for its visuals, sound design, and competitive focus, it also faced criticism for its lack of innovation, technical issues, and underwhelming content. Critics like 3DJuegos and Game Informer found Driveclub to be a solid entry point for PlayStation 4 users interested in the racing genre, with room for improvement in gameplay variety and technical aspects. Despite its flaws, some reviewers, such as ZTGD and PlayStation LifeStyle, recognized the potential of Driveclub as a compelling racing game with engaging social elements and unique features that cater to racing fans. Ultimately, Driveclub's reception varied among critics, with some praising its strengths while others pointed out its weaknesses, resulting in a diverse range of opinions on the overall verdict of the game.

TL;DR

Driveclub received praise for its impressive graphics, sound design, and competitive gameplay, but faced criticism for lacking innovation and technical issues. Some critics found it to be a solid entry for racing game enthusiasts, while others deemed it soulless and forgettable. Overall, opinions on Driveclub were mixed, with some acknowledging its potential while others highlighting its flaws.

CRITIK

Reviews

108 reviews found

Brash Games

PlayStation 4

Mar 4, 2016