Test Drive Unlimited 2 was a special game. The level of detail in each of its sections is what made it great. Each dealership was themed with the brand of the moment, car control was almost complete (with “gimmicks” like rolling down the windows or using the turn signals), reckless driving on the roads was rewarded and penalized at the same time, and you could emulate a life of luxury outside of the races.
You might think it’s nostalgia talking (yes, it’s “only” 13 years old, but a lot has happened) if I tell you that it’s one of the most unique and beloved racing games in history, but it’s true. A few weeks ago, I decided to reinstall and play it again to prepare for the release of Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown. I’m having a great time replaying TDU 2, but the new title from KT Racing and Nacon doesn’t come out as well in comparison.
A Watered-Down Tribute
It is evident that KT Racing has studied the previous installments, especially TDU 2. The fact that it is called Solar Crown is no coincidence, as it was also the main competition that gave meaning to the entire storyline of the previous video game. It is also no coincidence that the FRIM system and other elements have returned, reflecting that they have carefully analyzed what made the saga so special in its recent iterations.
The magic has not been properly recreated in the new video game. It falls short in the attempt
But, even so, the magic has not been properly recreated in the new video game. It falls short in the attempt. The shops have disappeared, the dealerships are all the same (a couple of details changed), life off the track hardly exists (forget about having a house), there are no motorcycles, the HUB does not change for each vehicle (yes, that used to happen), and to top it off, it has a permanent connection that makes no sense.
The big problem with Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown is that it’s a decent game, but it’s not a good TDU. And that’s not what any fan of the saga was expecting. This franchise is much more than good driving games and, at one point, introduced different concepts that influenced sagas like Forza Horizon or The Crew. In fact, I think none of them have managed to do what TDU did, for whatever reason.
Although it is true that in the industry we have become accustomed to being told about DLCs before the game itself is released, I saw a sense of urgency in KT Racing and Nacon when announcing, even before the launch of the title, the content that will arrive in the future. The most striking thing is that Ibiza, the map of TDU 2, will be present in this installment. It seems like they want to convince with what is coming because they know things are missing.
It should be an evolution, but for now, it’s a step back
In fact, many of the elements that are missing here are part of their plans: the Casino (a TDU classic) will arrive, and they are considering incorporating the housing system, as well as motorcycles. They are perfectly aware of everything that is missing, but it simply isn’t there. This seems more like an early access than anything else and I think it’s a mistake to mask it as wanting to keep the game alive (which is great, of course).
Because, seriously, beyond the serious optimization problems it has on PC, a strange AI (although fast), the unnecessary and invasive permanent connection (optional in TDU 2 and in competing games like Forza Horizon 5), its biggest problem is not meeting what this saga is about. Some elements are there, but they are a shadow of what they once were. It should be an evolution, but for now, it’s a step back.
Embracing the Chaos of TDU Solar Crown
However, I want to defend Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown, because I have continued playing after giving it enough time to write this article. And that, despite its shortcomings, is for a reason. Not everything is bad. In fact, it has some elements that I love, starting with the setting. The game takes us to Hong Kong to become the best street racer in the city.
It’s a joy to go from one point to another, even if it’s just to enjoy the views and the driving
I have no idea if the recreation is faithful or not, but I honestly don’t care. The map is amazing. Enormous highways with kilometers and kilometers of extension mix with tiny, narrow alleyways that turn into incredible street racing scenarios, with tight curves and tracks that will take your breath away. Not to mention the mountainous areas or the secret locations that don’t appear on the map.
It’s a joy to go from one point to another, even if it’s just to enjoy the views and the driving. Because, yes, I didn’t dislike the handling either. It’s very arcade-like and the cars are too understeering (especially the faster ones), but it’s an updated experience of what TDU has always been. Behind the wheel of the vehicles, I have managed to forget many of the problems it has had.
And, you know, something that is really good in TDU Solar Crown is the progression, something that the Forza Horizon saga executes in the worst possible way. Here you can forget about getting top-notch cars right away: the vehicles are very expensive, and the performance upgrades for each of them will force you to dig deep into your pockets. You will have to think carefully about what you spend your money on, and I find that much more entertaining and motivating.
Having said all that, with Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown I have a curious feeling, but one that sometimes happens: it’s far from memorable, but it entertains me. And I will keep playing it. I embrace its chaos, its disorder, and its mistakes, and I’m not ashamed of it. If you can overlook its flaws, I think you’ll enjoy it like I do. Hopefully it will improve in the future because, as mentioned, it could perfectly be an early access with a lot of potential.
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