Buckle up, racing enthusiasts—the new Project Motor Racing game is poised to rev your engines like never before, blending thrilling realism with accessible fun that could redefine the genre. But here's where it gets controversial: Is this the perfect middle ground between casual arcade thrills and hardcore simulation, or does it risk alienating purists on both sides? Let's dive in and see why this title has us all fired up.
As one of the most promising sim-racing releases coming down the pike—check out our full list of the best new racing games for 2025-2026 here—Project Motor Racing is crafted by the same talented team responsible for the underrated gem Project Cars 2. What sets this fresh franchise apart is its carefully curated selection of vehicles and circuits, coupled with a deeply immersive career mode that lets you climb the ranks from rookie to racing legend. And speaking of immersion, the recent gameplay trailer has us hooked, teasing just enough to leave us craving the full experience.
The trailer keeps things straightforward yet exhilarating: It follows an onboard perspective from a Saleen S7-R hot on the heels of a Chevrolet Corvette C5-R, alongside other iconic modern-classic GT cars, all tearing around the Canadian Tire Motorsports Park (formerly known as Mosport). Of course, a short clip like this only scratches the surface, but we're impressed by the smart choices— this track is a real-world challenge known for its tight corners and high speeds, perfect for showcasing handling dynamics. Plus, the visuals and audio are top-notch, making every roar of the engine and screech of tires feel authentic and pulse-pounding.
Now, and this is the part most people miss, the roster of cars in Project Motor Racing might not be enormous yet, but it's packed with fascinating machines that span racing history, offering something for every fan. On the modern end, you've got cutting-edge prototypes like the Lamborghini SC63, with its hybrid powertrains pushing the limits of speed and efficiency, and the Aston Martin Valkyrie, a hypercar marvel that blends aerodynamics and performance in ways that make even seasoned drivers drool. Then there are the GT3 beasts, such as the Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) with its legendary precision handling—ideal for beginners to learn the ropes—and the Mustang GT3, bringing American muscle to the track. But don't overlook the classics: The Saleen S7-R and Corvette C5-R we saw in the trailer are just the tip of the iceberg, joined by legends like the Audi R8 LMP900, a brute from endurance racing's golden era; the Porsche 911 GT1-98, a symbol of 90s dominance; the Lola T70, a vintage icon from the 1960s with its sleek design and raw power; and the Mazda 787B, the underdog that shocked the world by winning Le Mans. These cars aren't just eye candy—they each tell a story of innovation and competition, helping newcomers understand why certain designs endure in motorsport.
The track lineup is equally enticing, featuring legendary circuits that have hosted real-world championships and tested the best drivers alive. Imagine navigating the treacherous 20-kilometer Nürburgring, a 'Green Hell' of undulating terrain and unpredictable weather that demands respect from amateurs and pros alike. Spa's high-speed corners and elevation changes make it a thrill ride, while Zolder's technical chicanes and Silverstone's historic straights offer variety. Lime Rock's intimate American setting is great for honing skills, Sebring's endurance feel mimics long races, Bathurst's mountainous madness in Australia is pure adrenaline, and Kyalami's South African flair adds global diversity. And that's not all—more tracks are on the way, expanding the possibilities for endless exploration.
What really intrigues us is how Project Motor Racing strikes a balance between the more laid-back, arcade-style games like Gran Turismo and Forza, where flashy drifts and explosions steal the show, and the ultra-realistic simulations of iRacing and Assetto Corsa, which require hours of setup and can feel overwhelming for casual players. For beginners, this means you can dip your toes in with forgiving mechanics while still feeling the authentic physics—like tire wear or suspension adjustments—that make racing feel alive. But here's where opinions might clash: Some purists argue that diluting sim elements waters down the challenge, while others say it's a gateway to attract new fans without scaring them off. Controversially, could this approach actually elevate the genre by making hardcore sim racing more mainstream, or does it cheapen the experience for veterans?
Notably, the game isn't limited to PC; it's hitting PlayStation and Xbox too, broadening its appeal to console gamers who might not have the setup for deep sims. Release is set for November 25th across all platforms, and for just $89.99, you get the base game plus a bonus DLC pack featuring GTE race cars from the late 2010s and early 2020s—think robust endurance machines like those battling in the World Endurance Championship, adding even more depth to your garage.
If you're hungry for more racing action, we've got you covered with our section on additional racing games. But we want your take: Do you think Project Motor Racing will be a game-changer, or is it just another title in an oversaturated market? Will the balance between arcade and sim appeal to you, or do you side with the purists? Share your thoughts in the comments below—agreement, disagreement, or wild theories welcome. What features are you most excited about, and how does it stack up against your favorite franchises? Let's chat!
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- The Motor1.com Team
