The Project CARS series, developed by Slightly Mad Studios, is renowned for its realistic racing simulation and community-driven development. Spanning several key releases from 2015 to 2022, each installment brought unique features and innovations to the series. This article explores the major releases within the Project CARS series and what set them apart.
Project CARS (2015)
The first game in the series, Project CARS, was released in May 2015. It marked the beginning
of a new era in racing simulation, offering players a realistic driving experience with 74 drivable cars and over 30 unique locations. The game featured a mix of real-world racing circuits and fictional tracks, providing a diverse range of courses for players to explore.
Project CARS was developed using a community-driven model, with funding raised by the community and developers. This approach allowed players to contribute to the game's development and receive a share of the profits. The game was well-received, selling 2 million copies by October 2016, and was praised for its realistic physics simulation and dynamic weather and lighting conditions.
Project CARS 2 (2017)
Following the success of the first game, Project CARS 2 was released in September 2017. This sequel expanded on the original's features, offering 140 track layouts at 60 different locations and 189 cars from various manufacturers, including Porsche, McLaren, and Ferrari. The game introduced new vehicle types and motorsport classes, such as rallycross and IndyCar.
Project CARS 2 continued the series' tradition of community involvement, with players participating in pre-alpha testing and providing feedback. The game received positive reviews and won the Best Simulation Game award at Gamescom 2017. Its enhanced graphics, improved physics engine, and diverse range of vehicles and tracks solidified its place in the racing simulation genre.
Project CARS 3 (2020)
The third installment, Project CARS 3, was released in August 2020. Unlike its predecessors, this game adopted an arcade-style gameplay, positioning itself as a spiritual successor to Need for Speed: Shift. Despite this shift, Project CARS 3 maintained the series' focus on licensed cars and vehicle customization.
Project CARS 3 introduced new features, such as a career mode and enhanced vehicle customization options. However, the game's departure from the traditional simulation style received mixed reviews from fans and critics. While some appreciated the new direction, others missed the realism that defined the earlier games in the series.
The Project CARS series, with its key releases, has left a lasting impact on the racing simulation genre. Each installment brought unique features and innovations, contributing to the series' reputation for realism and community-driven development. Despite its conclusion in 2022, the legacy of Project CARS continues to influence the world of racing games.
