Summary
- Release Year: 2006
- Genres: Racing, Simulator, Sport
- Platforms: Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, Xbox
- Developers: Codemasters Southam, Robosoft Technologies, Sumo Digital
- Publishers: Codemasters
TOCA Race Driver 3: A Comprehensive Racing Simulation
Released in 2006, TOCA Race Driver 3 (also known as DTM Race Driver 3 in Germany and V8 Supercars 3 in Australia) is the third installment in the TOCA racing video game series developed and published by Codemasters. It offers a comprehensive and immersive racing experience, featuring a wide range of licensed championships, detailed career modes, and online multiplayer.
Features and Gameplay
TOCA Race Driver 3 boasts an impressive array of features, including:
- Extensive Championships: The game features 120 championships and 35 types of racing, including DTM, V8 Supercars, open wheel, GT, oval, rallying, and off-road racing.
- Pro Career Mode: Players can embark on a detailed Pro Career mode, starting from the bottom and working their way up to the top of the racing world.
- World Tour Mode: The open-ended World Tour mode allows players to race in any of the available championships and tracks, earning rewards and unlocking new content.
- Realistic Physics and Damage Modeling: The game’s physics engine provides realistic car handling and damage modeling, resulting in intense and thrilling racing experiences.
- Extensive Customization: Players can customize their cars with a wide range of upgrades and liveries, allowing for personalized racing experiences.
Licensed Content
One of the standout features of TOCA Race Driver 3 is its extensive use of licensed content. The game features officially licensed cars and tracks from various racing series, including:
- DTM: The game includes the full 2005 DTM season, featuring all the official teams and drivers.
- V8 Supercars: TOCA Race Driver 3 also features the full 2005 V8 Supercars Championship, with all the official teams and drivers.
- Other Championships: The game includes a wide range of other licensed championships, such as the Formula 3 Euro Series, the British Touring Car Championship, and the FIA GT Championship.
Critical Reception
TOCA Race Driver 3 received generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising its extensive content, realistic physics, and immersive gameplay. The game was frequently compared favorably to Gran Turismo 4 and Forza Motorsport, two other popular racing simulators at the time.
Here are some excerpts from critical reviews:
- “TOCA Race Driver 3 is a superb racing game that offers a huge amount of content and variety.” – IGN
- “The physics are excellent, the damage modeling is realistic, and the AI is challenging.” – GameSpot
- “TOCA Race Driver 3 is one of the best racing games available on the PlayStation 2.” – Eurogamer
Legacy
TOCA Race Driver 3 is considered one of the best racing simulators of its time. It was praised for its extensive content, realistic physics, and immersive gameplay. The game’s legacy continues today, with many fans still enjoying it and considering it a classic of the racing genre.
Conclusion
TOCA Race Driver 3 is a comprehensive and immersive racing simulation that offers a wide range of championships, detailed career modes, and online multiplayer. With its extensive use of licensed content, realistic physics, and customizable options, TOCA Race Driver 3 provides an unforgettable racing experience for enthusiasts of all levels.
Review Score
8.5/10