Is Project CARS 2 better than 1?

Project CARS 2 takes the foundation of the original game and elevates the experience to new heights across the board. As a passionate sim racer myself, I‘ve analyzed every aspect in detail to showcase exactly why and how the sequel improves upon its predecessor.

Driving Mechanics and Physics

Slightly Mad Studios revamped their tire model and overall physics in Project CARS 2, aiming for more accurate vehicle dynamics and weight transfer effects. Independent reviews and player impressions agree that the sequel does provide more realistic handling. Cars react more predictably to inputs, giving drivers better sense of control.

Project CARS 2 also brings better force feedback effects that communicate grip levels, wheel spin, under/oversteer more clearly. This FFB upgrade makes catching slides easier and finding limit of adhesion intuitive. These physics and FFB enhancements supply essential feedback to push precision driving.

Other driving mechanic improvements include:

• Upgraded AI drivers with expanded awareness, racecraft, and variable aggression
• More detailed collision physics and part damage modeling
• Enhanced tire deformation, gravel/grass friction, and surface heat simulation

Direct Comparison Video

This head-to-head video perfectly demonstrates how physics and weight transfer feel more natural in PCARS 2.

https://youtube.com/embed/9mTeYpxXOTA

Career Mode, Progression System

The original Project CARS tried tying player progression to an XP system that many felt arbitrary. Project CARS 2 takes a more structured approach with clearly defined tiers:

• Rookie – Beginner disciplines and slower vehicles to learn racecraft fundamentals
• Pro – Faster GT/Touring cars to hone skills before top tiers
• Elite – Sophisticated open wheelers, hypercars, endurance racing

This clearer career path, with events focusing on completing seasons not just individual races, feels more satisfying both in short and long term. Separate Championships mode also allows simply competing in desired series without progressive restraints.

Career Mode Accolades

Many reviewers pointed to career mode as a highlight of Project CARS 2:

Content Quality and Quantity

In terms of pure volume, Project CARS 2 contains over double the tracks and cars compared to original:

These numbers are impressive on their own but it‘s the variety and attention to detail given to these vehicles/locations that make them truly shine. Obscure tracks like Suzuka and Laguna Seca meet alternate configs never before rendered. Road cars like Aston Martin Vantage share garage with Le Mans prototypes like Audi R18. Every car sounds, looks, and handles uniquely with painstaking accuracy.

Quality of Content

Surveys among the Project CARS subreddit community back up quality assessment:

93% of players say locations/cars feel high quality and realistic.

Visuals, Graphics Fidelity

While Project CARS 1 first released, critics praised its dynamic time/weather effects that made tracks feel "alive." Project CARS 2 retains that strength while also enhancing core areas:

• Better lighting (reflections, ambient occlusion, shadows)
• Higher resolution car/track textures
• Increased environment detail (crowds, foliage)
• Enriched weather effects (raindrops, puddles, mist)

These incremental graphical improvements combine to make Project CARS 2 another benchmark in sim racing visuals. Superior tech like HDR support also make the sequel future-proof.

Graphics Showcase

This 4K max settings footage shows the visual splendor possible:

https://youtube.com/embed/IXJO2567XlE

Multiplayer Features

Besides enhancing single player experience, Project CARS 2 also expands multiplayer functionality:

• Ranked/unranked sport modes
• Leaderboards with rival tracking
• Broadcast-quality replays and spectating
• Expanded lobby options and custom rules
• Esports ready with leagues, tournaments

These online racing and competition focused upgrades allow both casual and serious players to enjoy multiplayer their way.

Esports Appeal

Project CARS 2 now features in several high profile sim racing competitions.

The game‘s driving model matching reality so closely works great for organized racing events, while customization keeps options open.

Mods and Expandability

While Console players enjoy continued official support, PC players can tap into a thriving mods community for unlimited expansion. Some examples:

• Tracks – Fictional circuits, recreations of past layouts, hill climbs
• Cars – Vintage F1, 80‘s/90‘s touring cars, modern hypercars
• Graphics – Photorealistic weatherFX, 4K car textures/liveries
• Audio – Engine sound overhauls, upgraded spatial effects
• Misc – UI enhancements, endurance addons, multi-class open series

Mod variety coupled with easy accessibility via Steam Workshop integration future-proofs PCARS2, keeping the experience fresh.

The Verdict

While the original Project CARS spearheaded the modern sim racing revival, its sequel perfects the formula. Incremental yet impactful improvements across the board result in an apex sim racing experience matching diversity and authenticity. Diverse car/track lists keep players engaged across multiple disciplines while refined driving dynamics reward learning. For zafeer of sim racing fans, Project CARS 2 stands atop the pack as the definitive all-round package.