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CRITIK

Project CARS 3

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Project CARS 3
Item: Project CARS 3
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2020

GenresAction, Simulation, Sports, Vehicular, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing

AvailableAug 3, 2020

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperSlightly Mad Studios

Overview

Project cars 3 is the third installment in the best-seller racing franchise that brings all the intense thrills, emotions and fun from the vibrant world of motor racing to vivid life as players undertake a whole new exciting career journey that sees them Rise from Weekend Warrior to racing Legend. Also new to the franchise is a deeply engaging metagame that challenges players to race hard and earn in-game credits with which to Buy and own hundreds of cars from the world's most Elite brands and race them all on dynamic and spectacular circuits around the globe Featuring stunning all-weather, all-seasons conditions. Race-won credits and XP will also entice players to Buy authentic performance upgrades and customization options for their stable of exclusive cars, including wheels, tires, body Kits, rims, as well as personalization Options to create their own racing hero personas. With a completely redesigned and unrivaled Controller experience, an even more accurate and fun handling model, adjustable skill settings for every level of driver and every element of weather-affected races, Project cars 3 is the biggest, most exciting and authentic Evolution to the definitive racing franchise.

Elsewhere

5.0

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)

51%

Mixed (50-79)

43%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Gameplay of Project CARS 3 has received a mix of positive feedback from critics. Many reviewers highlighted the game's ability to balance realism and accessibility, catering to both casual and hardcore players. Areajugones appreciated how the game offers options for players of different skill levels and introduces vehicle customization, maintaining a level of challenge. COGconnected praised the realistic mechanics of the game, including brakes, acceleration, and weather, which added depth to the gameplay experience. Vandal also commended the improved controller handling, driving mechanics, vehicle differentiation, and well-implemented weather effects, providing an engaging and immersive racing experience. On the other hand, some critics expressed concerns about certain aspects of the gameplay in Project CARS 3. Atomix noted a shift from simulation to arcade-style gameplay, with a progression system that felt unfair at times. Gameblog.fr criticized the lack of depth in the gameplay, mentioning issues like cars handling similarly and the absence of managing damage, wear, or strategy. Stevivor highlighted the floaty and unrealistic feel of the cars' handling, leading to difficulties in vehicle control, as well as the lack of depth in the career mode with shorter races and the absence of practice and qualifying sessions. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the Gameplay of Project CARS 3 leans towards a positive reception, with a few reservations. The game successfully strikes a balance between simulation and arcade elements, offering an accessible and engaging racing experience with customizable progression and diverse gameplay modes. While some critics appreciated the improvements in handling, customization options, and overall fun factor of the gameplay, others raised concerns about the shift towards arcade-style mechanics, lack of depth in certain aspects, and inconsistencies in vehicle behavior. Despite these criticisms, the majority of reviewers found the gameplay of Project CARS 3 to be enjoyable and engaging, appealing to a wide range of players with its mix of simulation and arcade elements.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Project CARS 3 gameplay praised for balancing realism and accessibility, offering diverse customization options and engaging racing experience. Critics note concerns about arcade shift, lack of depth, and handling issues, but overall positive reception for its mix of simulation and arcade elements.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

21%

Mixed (50-79)

70%

Negative (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Project CARS 3 have received a mix of positive feedback from critics. Several reviewers highlighted the impressive details in the tracks and car models, dynamic weather effects, and HDR visuals. Areajugones praised the game for its impressive track details and HDR visuals, while COGconnected appreciated the beautiful graphics and the wide variety of over 200 cars from different manufacturers. PlayStation Universe also commended the visually impressive cars and well-done lighting and weather effects. These aspects contribute to creating a visually appealing and immersive racing experience for players, enhancing the overall realism and engagement within the game world. On the flip side, there were notable criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design of Project CARS 3. Some critics pointed out issues such as graphical glitches, aliasing, popping, and visual bugs. Gameblog.fr mentioned aliasing, popping, and graphical bugs affecting the gameplay experience, while Hardcore Gamer noted that the game lacks the visual impact of its predecessors and feels less cutting edge. M3 highlighted numerous graphical bugs and issues, including flickering edges and unstable frame rates, impacting the overall visual quality and stability of the game. These technical shortcomings detract from the overall visual presentation and immersion, hindering the player's experience. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Project CARS 3 leans towards a mixed reception. While the game excels in certain areas such as detailed car models, vibrant visuals, and dynamic weather effects, it falls short in terms of graphical polish and technical performance on both consoles and PC. Critics like GameSpot and Shacknews mentioned issues with unrealistic collision damage, flat lighting, and a graphical downgrade compared to previous entries. However, there are also positive remarks from reviewers like PlayStation LifeStyle and SomosXbox, who found the visuals appealing and immersive despite some shortcomings. In conclusion, while Project CARS 3 offers a visually engaging racing experience with its detailed cars and environments, the presence of graphical bugs and technical issues prevents it from achieving a consistent level of visual excellence across all platforms.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Project CARS 3's graphics and visual design receive mixed feedback. Critics praise impressive details, dynamic weather effects, and HDR visuals, enhancing the racing experience. However, issues like graphical glitches, aliasing, and visual bugs detract from the overall presentation and immersion. While the game excels in certain areas, critics note technical shortcomings and a graphical downgrade compared to previous entries. Overall, opinions on the visuals are divided, with some appreciating the immersive experience despite flaws.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

45%

Negative (0-49)

45%

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

The Sound Design and Music of Project CARS 3 received mixed reviews from critics. Areajugones and Vandal appreciated the immersive sound effects, with Areajugones specifically praising the realistic engine roars and drifts. TheSixthAxis also highlighted the positive aspects of the sound design and music, mentioning a pumping soundtrack that contributed to the overall experience. These critics found the sound design to be engaging and enhancing the gameplay immersion. On the flip side, several critics pointed out various shortcomings in the audio department of Project CARS 3. Critical Hit and Press Start Australia criticized the forgettable music, with Press Start Australia even opting to switch to a Spotify playlist for a better experience. Shacknews criticized the sound design for prioritizing other noises over the engine sounds and the absence of crucial collision sounds. GameGrin and Generación Xbox noted areas for improvement, such as cars lacking the raw or throaty sound found in other racing games and the need for enhancements in the music department. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a mixed reception of the Sound Design and Music in Project CARS 3. While some reviewers appreciated the immersive sound effects and positive aspects of the music, others highlighted the forgettable soundtrack and areas for improvement in both sound design and music. The varying opinions suggest that the audio experience in the game may resonate differently with players based on their preferences and expectations.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics had mixed feelings about the Sound Design and Music in Project CARS 3. Some praised the immersive sound effects and pumping soundtrack, while others criticized the forgettable music and lack of crucial collision sounds. Overall, opinions were divided on the audio experience, with reviewers pointing out areas for improvement and differing on their reception of the game's audio elements.

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

76%

Negative (0-49)

17%

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

In terms of the technical performance on the PS4, several critics highlighted positive aspects. Atomix mentioned that Project CARS 3 runs smoothly at 60FPS on the PS4. Additionally, Vandal praised the solid performance on the PS4. However, there were notable negatives mentioned by various critics. Digitally Downloaded and M3 both pointed out technical issues such as pop-up, pop-in, graphical artifacts, and unstable frame rates. Gameblog.fr criticized the game for graphical issues, bugs, and causing discomfort, although they did mention that it is more playable with a controller. Trusted Reviews also criticized the graphical glitches, slowdown, and motion blur on the base PS4 version, suggesting that other platforms have better stability. Moving on to the Xbox One platform, GameGrin and Generación Xbox highlighted positive aspects such as delivering a smooth 60fps experience and enhanced controls for a more enjoyable driving experience. However, there were also negatives mentioned by critics. GameSpew noted occasional graphical inconsistencies and a drop in car complexity during crowded races, recommending playing in framerate mode for better performance. MondoXbox mentioned that while the historical Madness Engine performs well, the simulation component may have been simplified, potentially affecting stability. Across all platforms, the overall consensus of the critics indicates a mixed reception regarding the technical performance of Project CARS 3. While some critics like Cheat Code Central and DualShockers did not mention significant technical issues, others like Everyeye.it, Gamer.nl, and Hardcore Gamer pointed out bugs, graphical artifacts, and performance inconsistencies. The lack of HDR support was a common criticism, as mentioned by Hardcore Gamer and Shacknews. Despite some positive feedback on performance stability on certain platforms, the general sentiment leans towards technical issues impacting the gameplay experience, with critics like JeuxActu highlighting graphical glitches, slow texture loading, frame rate drops, and various bugs affecting gameplay.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics have mixed views on the technical performance of Project CARS 3. While some praise smooth gameplay on PS4 and enhanced controls on Xbox One, others criticize graphical issues, bugs, and instability across all platforms. Overall, the consensus leans towards technical problems impacting the gameplay experience, with concerns raised about graphical glitches, frame rate drops, and lack of HDR support.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

23%

Mixed (50-79)

73%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the positives regarding the replay value of Project CARS 3, several critics highlighted various aspects that contribute to the game's lasting appeal. Areajugones praised the revamped Career Mode, weekly challenges, engaging multiplayer, and various gameplay modes that ensure hours of fun for players of all skill levels. Cheat Code Central and PlayStation LifeStyle both commended the depth of customization, upgrading, and tuning up cars, as well as the variety of tracks and race types in career mode, making it enjoyable for car or racing enthusiasts. SpazioGames mentioned that the game is designed to be replayed multiple times with various competitions and objectives in the career mode, indicating a strong emphasis on providing content that encourages repeated playthroughs. On the other hand, some critics pointed out certain negatives that could potentially impact the replay value of Project CARS 3. Atomix noted that while there is plenty of content for solo players, the repetition required to unlock everything and the departure from simulation roots may not sit well with veteran players, potentially leading to a decrease in replayability for this specific audience. Critical Hit mentioned that the game lacks standout features and may feel empty once distractions like buying new cars and customization are done, suggesting a potential lack of long-term engagement for players seeking depth beyond initial customization and progression. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the replay value of Project CARS 3 leans towards a positive outlook, with many praising the game's extensive content, customization options, and multiplayer features that contribute to its lasting appeal. Critics like GamingBolt and TheGamer highlighted the rewarding progression system, consistent rewards flow, and engaging multiplayer modes that provide players with a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue playing. While there were concerns raised by some critics about potential repetition in the career mode and lack of standout features, the overall sentiment suggests that Project CARS 3 offers a compelling experience for racing fans looking for a mix of single-player and multiplayer content to keep them engaged over the long term.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics praise Project CARS 3 for its revamped Career Mode, weekly challenges, and engaging multiplayer, offering hours of fun for players. Customization options and variety of tracks also stand out. Some critics note potential repetition and lack of standout features, but overall, the game's extensive content, rewarding progression system, and multiplayer modes make it a compelling choice for racing enthusiasts seeking long-term engagement.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

26%

Mixed (50-79)

70%

Negative (0-49)

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

Project CARS 3 has garnered praise from multiple critics for delivering an enjoyable racing experience with a mix of arcade and simulation elements. Areajugones commends the game for being a significant addition to the racing simulation genre, while Cheat Code Central highlights the customizable experience, impressive car customization, and enjoyable gameplay. Additionally, Hobby Consolas appreciates the game for balancing realism and accessibility, providing a compelling option for racing fans. TheGamer highly recommends the game, stating that it is a treat for both veteran racing genre fans and casual players, praising aspects such as the selection of vehicles, career mode, and online features. On the other hand, some critics have pointed out various negatives about Project CARS 3. Atomix mentions that the game may not satisfy hardcore simulation fans and falls short in delivering a satisfying racing simulation experience for them. COGconnected notes that the game suffers from an identity crisis, blending racing sim gameplay and arcade racer mechanics, lacking in customization and clarity. M3 expresses concerns about the game feeling unfinished, with issues in graphics, gameplay design choices, and AI intelligence. Shacknews gives the game a score of 5/10, stating that it lacks cohesion in design and may be off-putting to many, frustrating fans of the previous games. Overall, the opinions of the critics regarding Project CARS 3 are mixed. While some critics appreciate the game for its accessible and enjoyable racing experience, engaging gameplay, and a good balance between accessibility and authenticity, others criticize it for straying from its simulator roots, lacking in realism, and failing to deliver a fully immersive experience for purist fans. The game seems to have polarized opinions among racing enthusiasts, with some feeling that it falls short of expectations as a sequel and struggles to deliver a unique and polished experience. Despite its drawbacks, Project CARS 3 has managed to find a niche audience among newcomers to the racing genre and casual players, offering a different take on racing games that may not appeal to everyone but still has its merits.

TL;DR

Project CARS 3 receives mixed reviews from critics. Praise for its enjoyable mix of arcade and simulation elements, customization options, and accessible gameplay is countered by criticisms of not meeting hardcore simulation fans' expectations, an identity crisis, and unfinished aspects like graphics and AI. While some appreciate its balance between realism and accessibility, others feel it falls short of delivering a fully immersive experience. The game seems to divide opinions among racing enthusiasts, appealing more to newcomers and casual players.

CRITIK

Reviews

108 reviews found

Cheat Code Central

PlayStation 4

Aug 25, 2020