The Crew Motorfest
- January 23, 2023
- Ivory Tower
- 15h median play time
"The Crew Motorfest" is a racing game that offers various play options including single-player, multi-player, co-op, and PvP. The game features a Year 1 Pass with access to 25 vehicles, including the 2020 Ferrari SF90 Stradale and the 2021 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 4MATIC+. The Deluxe Edition includes the base game and the Fitted Ultimate Pack, while the Ultimate Edition offers the base game, Year 1 Pass, and the Ultimate Fitted Pack with exclusive content.
Reviews
- The game features stunning graphics and a vibrant open world set in Hawaii, making it visually appealing.
- There is a wide variety of vehicles available, including cars, bikes, boats, and planes, providing diverse gameplay experiences.
- The gameplay is fun and engaging, with a variety of events and challenges that keep players entertained.
- The game is locked at 60 FPS, which is considered outdated for a 2024 release, leading to performance issues.
- Players are forced to use loaned vehicles for races, which detracts from the enjoyment of using and customizing their own cars.
- There are frequent server disconnections and technical issues, making the game frustrating to play at times.
- graphics185 mentions
- 52 % positive mentions
- 44 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The graphics in *The Crew Motorfest* have received widespread praise for their stunning visuals and vibrant aesthetics, particularly the detailed environments and impressive car models. While many players appreciate the game's beautiful graphics and immersive world, some have noted issues such as frame rate drops, a 60fps cap, and a lack of advanced graphical options. Overall, the game is seen as a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a visually appealing racing experience, though it may not reach the graphical heights of competitors like *Forza Horizon 5*.
“The stunning visuals, diverse landscapes, and massive car collection make it incredibly immersive.”
“The graphics are gorgeous, enhancing the overall immersion and making every race feel like a high-octane spectacle.”
“Beautiful graphics: the game looks stunning, with detailed environments and realistic vehicles.”
“The graphics are horrible even at 4K max settings, also have ghosting behind the car.”
“Gameplay is boring, graphics quality are not that good as presented in the trailer, very unrealistic concept, makes you feel like a 5-year-old playing knock-off games on those 99+ free games online websites.”
“Despite the game being released in September 2023, the graphics quality is lower than that of Forza Horizon 3, which was released in 2016.”
- gameplay75 mentions
- 37 % positive mentions
- 57 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The gameplay in "The Crew Motorfest" is generally praised for its solid racing mechanics, diverse vehicle options, and engaging multiplayer experience, although some players note issues with handling and server stability. While the game offers a variety of modes and a vibrant world, some mechanics can feel repetitive or grindy over time. Overall, it strikes a balance between arcade-style racing and strategic vehicle management, making it enjoyable for both casual and dedicated players.
“The ability to switch between different types of vehicles on the fly during events adds a layer of excitement and strategy that keeps the gameplay fresh.”
“The seamless blend of on-road and off-road challenges keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting.”
“In short, The Crew Motorfest brings a compelling mix of fast-paced racing, stunning visuals, and varied gameplay, making it a strong contender for any racing fan’s collection.”
“A lot of different game modes, mechanics, and gimmicks, but a lot of them are absolutely no fun to play (side-wind in boat/plane races, skimming with boats, that weird rhythm minigame, etc.).”
“But probably the thing I take the most offense to is the general gameplay. I can forgive a non-existent story and being forced to do what the devs want me to do if the gameplay is at least fun and feels good, but I just feel like Bambi on ice in any car. It feels like my tires are just for decoration because even if I slow down enough to take a sharp turn, I still slide around like I'm driving on my rims.”
“Gameplay is boring, graphics quality are not that good as presented in the trailer, very unrealistic concept, makes you feel like a 5-year-old playing knock-off games on those 99+ free games online websites.”
- story54 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 78 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The story aspect of the game has received largely negative feedback, with many users describing it as uninspired, lacking emotional depth, and often non-existent. While some appreciate the creative playlists that serve as a loose narrative framework, they still feel that the overall storytelling is bland and fails to engage players. Comparisons to competitors like Forza highlight a preference for more substantial storylines, with many players expressing frustration over forced vehicle usage and repetitive character interactions.
“The playlists are enjoyable ways to define themes and genres, ranging from relaxing to intense missions/races.”
“Each story playlist is a whole movie, everything is done with soul.”
“They did a good job in creating a cohesive story for each playlist, as well as being informative and entertaining.”
“The story feels uninspired, with a narrative that doesn’t quite land and lacks emotional depth.”
“The 'story,' if you can even call it that, feels so lackluster. I don't mind a playlist system like in NFS Unbound's online mode, or even the general concept that they put in here, but there is just nothing to it.”
“Pretty upset with the lack of story and personal vehicle use in races.”
- optimization52 mentions
- 15 % positive mentions
- 46 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The game's optimization has received overwhelmingly negative feedback, with players reporting frequent crashes, stuttering, and inconsistent frame rates even on high-end hardware. Many users noted that despite impressive graphics, the performance issues significantly detract from the overall experience, with a frustrating cap on frame rates and poor server performance exacerbating the situation. Overall, the optimization is considered "horrendous," leading to a disappointing gameplay experience for many.
“Players can tweak their vehicles extensively, not just in terms of performance but also visually.”
“Much improved handling, amazing graphics, and good optimization - something you really can't take for granted nowadays.”
“The game is fun, is well optimized and looks good.”
“The game crashes at startup, when opening the map, when driving, in the menus, and it was just a terribly optimized experience.”
“Extremely fun game, but bad optimization and no offline mode (yet).”
“However, this game's optimization is trash.”
- grinding29 mentions
- 3 % positive mentions
- 3 % neutral mentions
- 93 % negative mentions
The grinding aspect of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players finding it repetitive and time-consuming, particularly when trying to unlock vehicles or earn in-game currency. While some enjoy the grind and appreciate the rewards for their efforts, others feel it can become tedious and frustrating, especially with high vehicle prices and limited effective grinding methods. Overall, the progression system may deter players who prefer a more streamlined experience, especially compared to other racing titles like Forza Horizon.
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“The grinding is a bit repetitive and the cars feel even more expensive than in the previous opus.”
“Grinding for parts is the biggest pain.”
“If you don't have much time to grind, don't buy this game; go to Forza Horizon 4/5.”
- music27 mentions
- 44 % positive mentions
- 44 % neutral mentions
- 11 % negative mentions
The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with some players criticizing the selection as repetitive and lacking excitement, while others appreciate the eclectic mix of genres that enhances the overall atmosphere. While a few standout tracks exist, many feel that the playlists do not effectively match the racing vibe, leading to a less engaging experience. Overall, the soundtrack's quality varies, with some players opting to use external music sources for a better experience.
“The soundtracks are really cool and come in different variations to match the vibes of any race or free-roam cruise you are experiencing.”
“The background soundtracks used in this game are good, many that will get you more in the mood as you play this often and over time you then begin to enjoy hearing them more, as they often blend well with the game's atmosphere and race theme setting.”
“The audio design, including the soundtrack, complements the experience perfectly.”
“Maybe I am biased, but almost nothing in the radio hyped me up or motivated me in any way, and this is the problem with many today's racing games, because not actual musicians are making these playlists, but the devs who don't know what to pick to suit the racing game vibe.”
“The music is repetitive, and honestly, not that good.”
“Some negative things I can say is the in-game music while racing is pretty trash/boring at times (I just have Spotify playing in the background now).”
- monetization15 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 60 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy in the game has drawn significant criticism, primarily due to its reliance on microtransactions for cosmetic items and the perception that the game is designed to encourage spending. Players feel pressured to purchase items to enhance their experience, and many express frustration over the grind required to unlock content, which seems to push them towards buying microtransactions instead. Overall, the monetization approach is viewed as a cash grab that detracts from the gameplay experience.
“Tl;dr: Yes, this game is very similar to Forza Horizon 5, to the point I'd say it's FH5 with much fewer microtransactions, actual steering animations, and a much, much better map which is worth the exploration, all of which leading to a great game totally worth checking out!”
“Some criticism surrounds the inclusion of microtransactions for cosmetic items.”
“Similarly, games with microtransactions give you the option to not spend money, but the design subtly pressures you into thinking that spending will significantly enhance your experience.”
“The lack of meaningful endgame content and the reliance on microtransactions can also be a deterrent for some.”
“Just because you can ignore it still doesn't hide the fact that the game is actively designed around those microtransactions, and under the expectation that you will buy them.”
“It's a grind to get other cars as they want you to buy microtransactions instead of playing the game.”
- stability11 mentions
- 18 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 82 % negative mentions
The stability of the game has received largely negative feedback, with many users reporting frequent crashes, freezes, and bugs that significantly hinder gameplay. While some players have managed to enjoy the game without major issues, the overall experience is marred by technical problems that require extensive troubleshooting and adjustments. Many feel that the game's stability issues detract from its potential enjoyment, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction.
“I got this game to play with my friend, and it runs great—no lag or anything.”
“While the controls of the car in the game are pretty close to what NFS is, the graphics are somewhat better, and there is no buggy police to break the immersion.”
“I spent a little over a week troubleshooting this game trying to have it not crash after 15 minutes of gameplay at best.”
“It's even worse that the time I spent troubleshooting it by far exceeded the allotted time I had to ask for a refund for the game.”
“Stutters like hell, game-breaking glitches... unplayable at this state.”
- atmosphere10 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 30 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
The atmosphere in *The Crew Motorfest* is highly praised for its vibrant, festival-like setting, enhanced by stunning visuals and a diverse soundtrack that immerses players in the lively culture of O'ahu, Hawaii. Reviewers highlight the breathtaking sunsets, dynamic environments, and a wide variety of vehicles, all contributing to an exhilarating racing experience that feels more engaging than its predecessors. Overall, the game successfully captures the essence of a real motorsport festival, making it a standout in the franchise.
“The festival atmosphere is palpable, with vibrant events that capture the spirit of a real motorsport festival.”
“The atmosphere is also really nice and the sunsets are breathtaking; nighttime feels and looks nice.”
“Players can race through busy streets, taking in the lively atmosphere and local culture.”
“The eclectic soundtrack features a mix of genres that enhances the festival atmosphere.”
“The Crew Motorfest successfully revitalizes the franchise with its blend of stunning visuals, diverse racing disciplines, and a lively community atmosphere.”
- replayability6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 17 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
Overall, players find the game offers significant replayability through diverse maps, unlockable challenges, and the introduction of an offline mode. However, some users express frustration with online-only elements that limit replay value and the potential for content removal. The balance between rewarding gameplay and restrictive online requirements influences the overall replayability experience.
“I've been thoroughly enjoying the gameplay, and the map is more than enough to keep the replay value up.”
“So far I've only finished Made in Japan, and it was a really rewarding blast. Upon finishing any playlist, you get to unlock challenges for that specific playlist as well, which adds more replayability and offers more rewards.”
“It's very polished, updates are constant, and they just announced an offline mode for infinite replayability.”
“Short and not very replayable, just wait for the new Forza...”
“Ubisoft deserves no praise for forcing online-only games, then eventually taking away all replayability, and also wiping the game from your library.”
- emotional3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviews indicate that the game's emotional impact is weak, with a narrative that fails to resonate and lacks depth. Additionally, gameplay frustrations detract from the overall experience, further diminishing any potential emotional engagement.
- humor3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game's context is highlighted by the irony of a major studio's justifications for certain practices, as well as the absurdity of players resorting to review bombing as a form of protest, which is seen as both amusing and futile.
“For such a big game studio, it's funny they're justifying why they can't implement it.”
“It's just funny.”
“If you have an issue with their practice, take it up with them at their office, because review bombing the game, which will all be reset anyways, is a hilarious way to protest.”