Review: rFactor - PC - PC - HEXUS.net

Conclusion, final thoughts and awards

So, let’s sum up rFactor and what it has to offer.

First off, I need to make it clear that rFactor really is a racing simulation and as such, if you’re looking for a an arcade style blast, you’ll find rFactor extremely unforgiving. This isn’t Need For Speed Pro Street and by all means drift around the first three turns but don’t be surprised to be running on your rims by turn four. rFactor is as much about taking care of the car as it is of winning the race.

So if you’re looking some something with more of a technical challenge than your average arcade racer, I strongly recommend checking Colin McRae DiRT first. For me, DiRT strikes a convenient middle ground between arcade forgiveness and ‘drive properly or lose’ simulation.

However, if you’re looking for something else after DiRT then rFactor is certainly worth a punt. Not only is it forgiving enough for the new racer, it has the depth and sheer immense detail needed to keep you thoroughly hooked… and unlikely a comparison as it may seem, rFactor has that ‘Champ Manager’ hook that somehow draws you in.

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For those looking for a decent racing sim, well you really don’t need to look too much further. rFactor is deliciously undiluted by big publishers looking for mass appeal and a safe commercial bet. This is a racing sim for people who know that sims require patience and hours of meticulous, dedicated play.

Throw on top of that the fact that rFactor has huge support from the modding community and you’ve got a game with some serious legs to it that is most certainly going to be keeping you going for a good while yet… But do yourself a big favour and get a retail version with a manual, it’ll save you several fistfuls of hair.

Pros
Honest learning curve
Fun to drive, if you’re sensible
HUGE number and range of mods
Masses of depth
A racing playable simulation

Cons
Below par career mode feels ‘tacked on’
Sound is comparatively poor
AI is a pain in the rear, literally
Prepare to get owned in MP

As pure racing simulations go, rFactor is the best example around

HEXUS Awards

rFactor - PC

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