TECHMASH

Tag: #Straight4Studios

  • Hands-On with History: Project Motor Racing Debuts ‘GT Icons Pack’ Early at SimRacing Expo

    Hands-On with History: Project Motor Racing Debuts ‘GT Icons Pack’ Early at SimRacing Expo

    Sim racing fans, start your engines. If you were lucky enough to hit the SimRacing Expo in Charlotte, NC, you just got a massive sneak peek at the future of virtual motorsport.

    Publisher GIANTS Software and developer Straight4 Studios have officially announced that expo attendees were among the absolute first in the world to get hands-on time with the highly anticipated GT Icons Pack for Project Motor Racing.

    The best part? This exclusive floor preview happened an entire month ahead of the DLC’s official digital launch on June 23rd, 2026.

    No Nannies, No Driver Aids: Pure Analogue Racing

    If you’ve been following Project Motor Racing since its late 2025 launch, you already know that Straight4 Studios (led by industry veteran Ian Bell) doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to realism. Powered by a monstrous 720Hz physics engine and GIANTS’ high-fidelity visual engine, the game has been pushing the limits of modern racing sims.

    With the GT Icons Pack, they are taking a massive leap backwards in time—in the best way possible. This pack is a love letter to the 1960s and ’70s, an era defined by raw V8 muscle, experimental aerodynamics, and terrifyingly zero driver aids. It’s just you, a heavy right foot, and the mechanical grip of some of the most legendary machines ever built.

    What’s Inside the GT Icons Pack?

    The DLC features 9 iconic cars split across three distinct eras, plus a beautifully scanned American road course, Rocky Knoll Raceway, which features two distinct layouts built for heavy braking and fast-flowing rhythm.

    Here is the full line-up of what players got to test in Charlotte:

    1. GT 70 (The Homologation Specials)

    • 1974 Porsche 911 Carrera RSR 3.0
    • 1973 Chevrolet Corvette C3
    • 1973 Ford Capri RS3100

    2. Sports Car 67 (Prototype Golden Age)

    • 1967 Chaparral 2F (the pioneer of park-bench wings and early DRS)
    • 1967 Ford Mk. IV
    • 1967 Lola T70 Mk 3

    3. GT 60 (Lightweight Analogue Racers)

    • 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport
    • 1964 Shelby Daytona Coupe
    • 1965 Jaguar E-Type Lightweight

    How to Get It

    Missed out on the Charlotte SimRacing Expo? Don’t sweat it. You won’t have to wait too much longer to throw these classic beasts sideways into a corner.

    • Official Release Date: June 23rd, 2026
    • Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S
    • Availability: Available for standalone digital pre-order right now, or included automatically as part of the Year 1 Season Pass (which saves you up to 30% compared to buying DLCs individually).

    Get your racing gloves ready, because June 23rd is about to get incredibly loud.

    Source – https://projectmotorracing.com/

    #ProjectMotorRacing #SimRacingExpo #GTIcons #GiantsSoftware #Straight4Studios

  • Project Motor Racing Update 2.0: The Redemption Arc Begins

    Project Motor Racing Update 2.0: The Redemption Arc Begins

    Four months ago, Project Motor Racing (PMR) rolled out of the pits to a checkered reception. While the pedigree was there—led by industry veteran Ian Bell and the team behind GTR and Project CARS—the execution felt more like a “work in progress” than a finished podium contender.

    But today, March 26, 2026, Straight4 Studios and GIANTS Software have officially released Update 2.0. This isn’t just a patch; it’s a total overhaul. If the launch version was a shaky qualifying lap, Update 2.0 is the team finally nailing the race setup.

    A Clean Slate: The UI Overhaul

    The first thing you’ll notice is that the “placeholder” feel of the original menus is gone. The clunky garage-style interface has been replaced with a sleek, high-performance UI.

    Faster Navigation: Getting from the main menu to the track is significantly snappier.

    Contextual Tooltips: New pop-ups now explain exactly what that suspension tweak or Force Feedback (FFB) adjustment will actually do to your car.

    Visual Polish: The fonts and layouts finally match the “AAA simulation” ambition that the developers promised.

    Physics & Handling: Grip You Can Feel

    The “sticky” steering and unpredictable traction that plagued the 1.0 release have been the main focus of the physics team.

    Revised Tyre Model: The way tyres build load and break traction is now much more progressive. You get a clear warning through your wheel (or controller) before the back end snaps.

    Class Improvements: While the entire game feels better, the LMDh, GT3, GT4, and Porsche 992 Cup classes have received the most attention, making them feel more reactive and stable mid-corner.

    New Widgets: The update introduces dedicated ECU and FFB widgets, giving you real-time telemetry on how your car and hardware are performing.

    A Career Mode with a Pulse

    Career mode was previously a bit of a “choose your own adventure” mess. In 2.0, it’s a structured journey:

    Real-World Sponsors: Integration of brands like Liqui Moly adds a layer of authenticity.

    Sense of Achievement: New podium ceremonies and a dedicated trophy room mean you’re actually racing for something now.

    License Points: In multiplayer, a new License Point system has been introduced to separate the clean racers from the “turn one torpedoes.”

    What’s Next? The Japanese GT500 Pack

    The 2.0 update also paves the way for the game’s first official DLC. Dropping on March 31st, the Japanese GT500 Pack will bring five modern Super GT icons and four legendary JGTC-era cars (yes, including the Skyline GT-R) to the grid.

    TechMash Verdict: Update 2.0 is the version of Project Motor Racing that should have launched in November. While there are still some graphical hitches and AI quirks to iron out, the “Line in the Sand” has been drawn. PMR is finally a simulation worth your time.

    Are you jumping back into the cockpit for Update 2.0? Let us know in the comments if the new physics model has won you over.

    Find out more here – https://projectmotorracing.com/

    #GIANTSSoftware #Straight4Studios #ProjectMotorRacing #cars #motorsports #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Project Motor Racing: The Next Generation of Virtual Motorsports?

    Project Motor Racing: The Next Generation of Virtual Motorsports?

    For years, racing game enthusiasts have craved a title that truly bridges the gap between exhilarating arcade action and the intricate realism of simulation. We’ve seen contenders come and go, each offering a piece of the puzzle, but rarely the complete picture. Enter Project Motor Racing, a game that’s been quietly building hype and promises to deliver an experience unlike any other.

    From the moment the first teasers dropped, it was clear that Project Motor Racing (PMR) wasn’t content with just being another racing game. The developers have meticulously crafted an experience that prioritizes immersion, authenticity, and an almost obsessive attention to detail.

    Visual Fidelity That Will Make Your Jaw Drop

    Let’s start with the obvious: PMR is visually stunning. The developers have pushed the boundaries of current-gen hardware, creating environments that feel alive and vehicles that are indistinguishable from their real-world counterparts. From the shimmering heat haze rising off the tarmac to the minute reflections on a polished carbon fiber spoiler, every pixel is designed to draw you deeper into the race.

    Beyond just looking pretty, the environments are dynamic. Weather systems aren’t just cosmetic; they genuinely impact track conditions, tire grip, and even visibility. Imagine battling for the lead as a sudden downpour turns a sun-baked circuit into a treacherous skid-pan.

    Physics That Demand Respect

    Where PMR truly aims to differentiate itself is in its physics engine. This isn’t a game where you can simply mash the accelerator and powerslide your way to victory. Every input, every weight transfer, every tire rotation is meticulously simulated. You’ll feel the subtle nuances of each car, from the brute force of a muscle car to the surgical precision of a single-seater.

    This level of realism isn’t for the faint of heart, but for those who relish a challenge, it’s incredibly rewarding. Mastering a car in PMR feels like a genuine accomplishment, requiring patience, practice, and a deep understanding of racing mechanics.

    A Roster of Dreams (and Nightmares)

    PMR boasts an impressive roster of licensed cars and tracks. Whether you’re a fan of classic GT cars, modern prototypes, open-wheelers, or even rally legends, there’s something here for everyone. The sound design alone is worth mentioning; each engine note is captured with stunning accuracy, creating a symphony of horsepower that will send shivers down your spine.

    More Than Just Racing: The Ecosystem

    But PMR isn’t just about the on-track action. The developers are building a comprehensive ecosystem around the game. A robust career mode promises a deep progression system, allowing you to rise through the ranks, manage your team, and customize your garage. Online multiplayer will feature sophisticated matchmaking, esports integration, and community events that promise to keep the competitive spirit alive.

    The Verdict (So Far)

    While we’re still eagerly awaiting the full release, everything we’ve seen and heard about Project Motor Racing suggests it’s poised to be a game-changer. It’s a title that’s clearly being developed by passionate individuals who understand what makes virtual motorsports truly special.

    For those who crave an authentic, challenging, and visually breathtaking racing experience, Project Motor Racing might just be the checkered flag we’ve all been waiting for. Get ready to rev your engines.

    What are your thoughts on Project Motor Racing? Are you excited for its release? Let us know in the comments below!

    Project Motor Racing – https://projectmotorracing.com/

    #ProjectMotorRacing #cars #motorsport #motorracing #drivers #sim #Straight4Studios #GIANTSSoftware #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • Full Throttle, No Paywalls: Why Project Motor Racing is Shaking Up the Multiplayer Sim Racing Scene

    Full Throttle, No Paywalls: Why Project Motor Racing is Shaking Up the Multiplayer Sim Racing Scene

    The roar of engines is getting louder, and the digital asphalt is about to get very competitive. Project Motor Racing (PMR), the highly anticipated sim racer from Straight4 Studios and GIANTS Software, is rapidly approaching its November 25th release date, and its approach to online multiplayer is grabbing headlines for all the right reasons.

    In a world increasingly dominated by subscriptions and pay-to-play mechanics, PMR is taking a refreshing, no-nonsense stance: No subscriptions. No paywalls. Just racing.

    A Multiplayer Ecosystem Built for Racers

    PMR isn’t just about hotlapping; it’s about building a robust, fair, and accessible online racing career. Here’s a look under the bonnet at what’s set to make PMR a fierce new rival on the track:

    1. No Extra Fees, Pure Competition

    Perhaps the biggest news is the promise of full online racing straight out of the box—without needing extra passes, rentals, or monthly subscription fees typical of some competitor platforms. This commitment to accessibility is a huge win for the community, ensuring every player can dive into the competitive side of the sim without hidden costs.

    2. Ranked Racing That Rewards Skill

    Getting into the structured competition starts with a mandatory License Test at Lime Rock Park to establish your initial skill. From there, the Ranked Racing system uses a 0–100 Driver Rating and, crucially, per-class ratings. This means your rating in a GT3 car won’t necessarily dictate your standing in a classic Prototype, allowing you to be a veteran in one category and a rookie in another—just like in real-world motorsport. This sophisticated matchmaking aims to create closer, fairer races.

    3. Monthly Championships & Scheduled Starts

    The competitive calendar is set to be structured around Monthly Championships with weekly track rotations and scheduled race times. This format is perfect for dedicated racers who want to commit to a series and climb the leaderboards. Points are based on finishing position and, smartly, the strength of your opponents, discouraging “farming” easy wins.

    4. Full Cross-Play Online

    Console players, rejoice! PMR is launching with Cross-Play Online between PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. This unified player base is key to ensuring large, packed grids and a vibrant racing community across all platforms.

    5. Content that Spans Eras

    A great multiplayer game needs great content, and PMR is delivering with over 70 meticulously recreated, licensed cars across 10-13 iconic classes. From today’s LMDh Hypercars and GT3/GT4 machines to historic legends like the Mazda 787B, there’s a machine for every type of racer. The track list is equally impressive, with 27 scanned global layouts confirmed, including the notoriously bumpy and legendary Sebring International Raceway.

    Beyond the Grid: More Ways to Race

    Multiplayer isn’t limited to ranked competition. PMR also offers:

    • No Fee Custom Lobbies: Host your own races, set the cars, tracks, and rules with no additional server fees.
    • Social Races: Quick, 15-minute casual events perfect for newcomers or for an experienced driver needing a fast racing fix.
    • Leaderboard Modes: Test your skills in Factory Driver Challenges (chasing real-world lap times) and gruelling Endurance Hall Events (long-distance tests of stamina and strategy).

    The Final Verdict (So Far)

    Project Motor Racing is making a bold statement with its multiplayer ecosystem. By removing the financial barriers to entry and focusing on deep, fair, and structured competition with full cross-play, Straight4 Studios is setting the stage for what could be the definitive new era of accessible sim racing.

    The final countdown to the November 25th launch is on. Get your racing rig tuned up—the grid awaits!

    Project Motor Racing releases on November 25, 2025, for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

    Project Motor Racing https://epic.gm/project-motor-racing

    #ProjectMotorRacing #sports #games #gaming #gamers #cars #motorsport #pc #playstation #xbox #Straight4Studios #GIANTSSoftware