Summary
- Release Year: 2001
- Genres: Racing
- Platforms: Xbox
- Developers: Bizarre Creations
- Publishers: Microsoft Game Studios
Project Gotham Racing: A Milestone in Xbox Racing
Released alongside the launch of the Xbox console in 2001, Project Gotham Racing (PGR) quickly became one of the most popular and critically acclaimed racing games of its time. Developed by Bizarre Creations and published by Microsoft, PGR set a new standard for racing games on consoles, with its stunning graphics, realistic physics, and innovative gameplay mechanics.
Gameplay
PGR is an arcade-style racing game that features a wide variety of real-world licensed cars and motorcycles. Players can race on a variety of tracks set in cities around the world, including London, Tokyo, San Francisco, and New York City.
The game’s career mode is divided into five tiers, each with its own set of races and challenges. Players must earn medals in races to progress through the tiers and unlock new cars and tracks.
PGR’s gameplay is fast-paced and exciting, with a strong emphasis on drifting and slipstreaming. The game’s physics engine is realistic and challenging, and players must master the art of car control to be successful.
Graphics and Sound
PGR was one of the first Xbox games to take full advantage of the console’s powerful hardware. The game’s graphics are stunning, with detailed car models, realistic environments, and impressive lighting effects.
The game’s sound design is also top-notch, with realistic engine noises, tire squeals, and crowd cheers. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of licensed music and original tracks.
Legacy
PGR was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. The game spawned two sequels, Project Gotham Racing 2 and Project Gotham Racing 3, as well as a spin-off game, Project Gotham Racing: Tokyo Drift.
PGR is considered to be one of the best racing games ever made. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and realistic physics set a new standard for racing games on consoles. PGR remains a popular game today, and it is still played by many fans around the world.
Review
Project Gotham Racing is a masterpiece of racing game design. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, stunning graphics, and realistic physics make it one of the most exciting and immersive racing games ever made. PGR is a must-play for any fan of racing games, and it is still one of the best games available on the original Xbox.
Score: 9/10
Pros:
- Stunning graphics
- Realistic physics
- Fast-paced and exciting gameplay
- Wide variety of cars and tracks
- Excellent sound design
Cons:
- Career mode can be repetitive
- Some cars can be difficult to control
Review Score
8.5/10