Project motor racing admits launch failure, major update looming

Published on 10/03/2026 12:53 in automotive • Stephen Ackroyd

Straight4 Studios has conceded that its racing sim, Project Motor Racing, fell short of expectations upon release in November. The developer's frank admission, detailed in a recent newsletter, comes with the promise of a significant update scheduled for the end of March.

Development faces scrutiny after disappointing launch

“When we launched Project Motor Racing in November, we set out to build a racing sim that captured the intensity, immersion, and discipline of real motorsport,” the studio wrote, in a statement acknowledging shortcomings. The initial reception had been tepid, with IGN’s November review noting the game’s impressive car selection and commitment to avoiding microtransactions, but criticizing its feeling of being an unfinished product.

The studio acknowledged “more than one thing” went awry, and has been dedicating resources to addressing player feedback. Seven patches have already been released, focusing on improving the core experience. “We’re now seven patches into making PMR the experience you want,” the studio stated. “Are we there yet? No. Not yet. But we’re moving closer to the standard you deserve and the standard we expect of ourselves.”

The upcoming update, slated for late March, aims to fundamentally reshape the game’s foundation, bringing it closer to the level of a serious motorsport title. Details are expected to emerge throughout March.

The latest patch introduced the 2013 Ford FG Falcon V8 Supercar as a free addition, along with a comprehensive overhaul of the GT4 class. But the core issues remain. The initial assessment was that Project Motor Racing felt like an early access title masquerading as a finished product, resulting in a lackluster single-player experience. The studio’s commitment to improvement now hangs in the balance.

The road to redemption is rarely smooth, and for Straight4 Studios, it’s proving to be a steep climb. The question is whether they can deliver on their promises before the momentum – and the players – are lost.