Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown cover image

Links

Amazon

Steam

Twitch

MONSTER

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown
Item: Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresThird Person Perspective, Open World, Simulation, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing

AvailableSep 12, 2024

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperKT Racing

Overview

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown is an open world driving and lifestyle experience. Grab your keys and live your life of luxury. Remember, social status is everything In the world of Test Drive Unlimited.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown’s faction-driven story offers structured intrigue but falls flat with clichéd tropes, shallow character arcs, and a plot that serves racing mechanics over emotional depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

65%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown is generally praised for its structured framework and thematic elements, though not without limitations. Critics like Generación Xbox and SomosXbox highlight the game’s focus on faction-based storytelling, where players choose between two distinct clans—Sharp and Street—that reflect contrasting lifestyles and values. This setup provides a clear narrative direction, as noted by IGN Spain, which describes the Solar Crown event as a prestigious competition that drives player motivation. Additionally, GameMAG likens the story to James Bond films, suggesting a touch of intrigue, while Multiplayer.it and Metro GameCentral acknowledge the clan system as a compelling mechanic that adds purpose to progression. These elements collectively create a recognizable racing narrative with some depth in its world-building. However, the narrative is frequently criticized for being shallow, clichéd, and lacking emotional resonance. Multiple reviewers, including Jeuxvideo.com (repeatedly), New Game Network, and DarkZero, point out that the story feels underdeveloped, with minimal impact on gameplay and weak character interactions. PCGamesN and SECTOR.sk describe the plot as superficial, with choices that fail to shape the experience meaningfully. The lack of narrative depth is further emphasized by IGN Adria, who calls the story “cringe-worthy” and compares it to a problematic cultural archetype, while CD-Action and Games.cz criticize its failure to engage players emotionally or structurally. Even PlayStation Country notes the absence of the lifestyle elements that defined earlier entries in the series, leaving the story feeling hollow. Overall, critics agree that Solar Crown’s narrative serves more as a backdrop for racing than a compelling story in its own right. While the faction-based structure and tournament premise offer some appeal—recognized by IGN Spain and GameMAG—the execution is widely seen as lacking. The consensus leans toward the story being a functional but unremarkable framework, with most reviewers (e.g., Jeuxvideo.com, VGC, and PlaySense) emphasizing its clichéd tropes and minimal impact. Though some praise the game’s attempt to modernize the series, the narrative is consistently viewed as a weak link, overshadowed by the focus on racing mechanics rather than storytelling. This divide between structural ideas and their implementation leaves the story feeling underwhelming overall.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Praise for arcade-style racing, open-world exploration, and varied events—but repetitive grinding, dated tracks, unbalanced AI, and technical flaws undermine enjoyment. Mixed reviews: accessible for casuals but flawed for depth seekers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown receives praise for its engaging open-world racing mechanics and variety of activities. Critics like IGN Spain highlight the focus on progression through events and competitions, allowing players to earn currency and unlock vehicles, while Movies Games and Tech compares it to a Forza-style experience with rewarding skills like drifting. The game’s arcade-simulation balance is frequently noted, with COGconnected praising its enjoyable cornering and high-speed mechanics, and GameCritics appreciating the adjustable difficulty and event modifiers. PlayStation Universe acknowledges solid driving physics and exploration opportunities, while Push Square highlights unique race types like domination formats and clan-based PVP betting. These elements collectively create a sense of variety and accessibility, particularly for casual players. However, several critics point to significant flaws in the gameplay loop. The repetitive nature of grinding for reputation and currency is a recurring complaint, with New Game Network and GRYOnline.pl criticizing the tedious progression system and lack of single-player depth. PCGamesN and SECTOR.sk describe the experience as grind-heavy and lacking variety, while DarkZero and GameMAG highlight unbalanced AI that undermines racing satisfaction. PlayStation Universe and VGC note dated track designs and simplistic mechanics, with Metro GameCentral pointing to baffling design choices. Additionally, technical issues like outdated structures (Multiplayer.it) and poor AI behavior (GameSpew) further detract from the experience, creating frustration despite the game’s initial appeal. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with praise for the arcade-style driving and open-world exploration offset by criticism of its repetitive progression systems and technical shortcomings. While IGN France and Jeuxvideo.com (across platforms) acknowledge the satisfying handling and variety of races, many feel the game’s reliance on grinding and lack of innovation hampers long-term enjoyment. The title seems to cater well to casual players seeking accessible racing fun, but its flaws—particularly in AI behavior and content depth—limit its appeal to more discerning audiences. Despite some positive aspects, the overall sentiment leans toward disappointment, with critics like IGN Adria and Games.cz emphasizing that the game’s potential is undermined by outdated design choices and performance issues.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown's Hong Kong visuals and dynamic weather are undermined by outdated graphics, technical glitches, and poor performance, leaving a fragmented experience that feels a generation behind.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

55%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown received mixed praise, with several reviewers highlighting its ambitious attempts at recreating Hong Kong and its dynamic weather effects. Generación Xbox noted that the city’s representation is "well recreated," while Movies Games and Tech praised the "neon-lit streets and detailed cars." IGN France commended the "vast and varied open world" with "beautiful lighting," and GameCritics emphasized that visuals are "stunning, especially during rainy nights." The game’s attention to environmental variety, such as distinct districts for racing and dynamic weather systems, was seen as a positive aspect by several critics. Additionally, XboxAddict acknowledged the "authentic car designs and interiors," suggesting that vehicle aesthetics were a strong point despite broader issues. However, the negatives dominated the critique, with consistent complaints about technical shortcomings and outdated visuals. Jeuxvideo.com and IGN Spain both described the graphics as "subpar" or "somewhat outdated," citing issues like texture pop-in, clipping, blurry details, and unstable frame rates. New Game Network criticized the "dated visuals" with "low-quality textures and poor lighting," while CD-Action called the graphics "poor" and "dated." Performance problems were widespread, with multiple reviewers on PC and PS5 (e.g., PlaySense, PlayStation Universe) noting frame drops, limited draw distance, and inconsistent visual quality. Character models and animations also drew criticism, as highlighted by XboxAddict and COGconnected, who found them unimpressive and stiff. The lack of NPC activity and environmental variety further detracted from immersion, with PCGamesN describing the world as "dull" and "dead." Overall, the consensus among critics is that Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown has ambitious visual goals but fails to deliver a polished or modern experience. While some elements like Hong Kong’s recreation and weather effects were praised, technical flaws—such as poor optimization, outdated graphics engines, and inconsistent frame rates—overshadowed these positives. Reviewers across platforms (e.g., Jeuxvideo.com, IGN France, PlayStation Universe) agreed that the game falls short of current standards, with its visuals feeling "a generation behind" and lacking the polish seen in competitors. Despite occasional highlights, the recurring issues with performance and visual fidelity created a fragmented experience, leaving many critics disappointed by the game’s technical execution despite its creative aspirations.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Praised for immersive engine sounds, diverse radio options, and dynamic tracks, but plagued by audio glitches, poor mixing, and a lack of ambient depth, Solar Crown’s sound design shines despite technical flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown received generally positive feedback from multiple critics, highlighting its immersive and varied audio elements. Generación Xbox praised the "well-executed sound design" with "echo effects and a diverse radio selection," while IGN Spain noted "spectacular radio tunes" that enhance the driving experience. Movies Games and Tech emphasized "realistic engine sounds" and a "diverse soundtrack," and XboxAddict highlighted unique vehicle-specific audio and immersive racing environments. GRYOnline.pl and COGconnected also commended the "immersive engine sounds" and "excellent engine and tire sounds," respectively, underscoring the game’s efforts to create an engaging auditory experience through dynamic car interactions and varied musical offerings. These critiques collectively suggest that the game’s audio design successfully contributes to its racing atmosphere. However, several critics pointed out notable flaws in the sound design. Jeuxvideo.com (XBOX) and Jeuxvideo.com (PS5) both mentioned "instances of missing audio during gameplay," while New Game Network criticized "poor mixing" and UI elements that obstructed critical information. GameMAG noted that "standout tracks are hard to find" due to fixed compositions, and IGN France pointed out an "outdated GPS voice." Additionally, PlayStation Country lamented the "lack of ambience" and minimal sound effects, creating a sense of emptiness, while Push Square highlighted the absence of Cantonese music and Hong Kong’s vibrant nightlife atmosphere. These issues suggest that while the game’s audio has strengths, technical inconsistencies and omissions detract from its overall polish. Despite mixed reviews, the consensus among critics leans toward acknowledging the game’s strong foundation in sound design, even if it falls short in certain areas. The positives—such as immersive engine sounds, varied radio options, and dynamic track selections—are frequently praised by outlets like IGN Spain, Movies Games and Tech, and COGconnected. However, technical issues like audio glitches, limited musical diversity, and environmental shortcomings (as noted by New Game Network, GameMAG, and PlayStation Country) indicate room for improvement. While some critics, like IGN Adria, downplayed the sound design’s impact due to poor voice acting, others emphasized its role in enhancing immersion. Overall, Solar Crown’s audio elements are seen as a significant strength but not without flaws that could hinder the experience for some players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown stumbles under severe technical flaws: unstable frames, poor optimization, relentless online dependency, and server chaos plague all platforms, with PS5 and PC bearing the worst pain—despite minor fixes, its launch-day disasters remain a crushing barrier to fun.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

82%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown across platforms shows mixed initial impressions, with some positives noted despite widespread issues. On Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox acknowledged general stability but highlighted frame drops in off-road scenarios, while SomosXbox and Jeuxvideo.com pointed to server problems and inconsistent optimization. For PC, DarkZero mentioned post-launch improvements in server connectivity and graphical freezes, and SECTOR.sk noted that launch issues with online connectivity had somewhat improved over time. On PS5, critics like CD-Action and COGconnected acknowledged minor stability gains, though they still criticized poor optimization and frame rate inconsistencies. These observations suggest that while some platforms saw incremental fixes, the core technical challenges remained prominent across all systems. However, the negatives for Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown are more pronounced and consistent across platforms. On Xbox Series X, IGN Spain, Jeuxvideo.com, and New Game Network emphasized persistent server issues, mandatory online connectivity, and bugs that disrupted gameplay. For PC, GameMAG and Multiplayer.it criticized severe optimization problems, frequent disconnections, and a "disaster" of technical performance, while IGN France described crashes and stuttering as making the game frustrating or even unplayable. On PS5, the criticism was particularly harsh: IGN Adria called the performance "catastrophic," with unstable frame rates and poor optimization, while PlaySense and Push Square highlighted server instability, lag, and UI flaws. All platforms faced challenges with online requirements, leading to interruptions and a lack of offline play options, which many critics found unacceptable for a racing game. The overall consensus among critics is that Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown suffered from significant technical shortcomings at launch, with platform-specific issues compounding the problems. While some improvements were noted over time—such as SECTOR.sk’s mention of better server stability on PC and IGN Adria’s acknowledgment of minor fixes—the core issues of optimization, online dependency, and frame rate inconsistencies remained pervasive. Xbox Series X received slightly more lenient reviews compared to PS5 and PC, but even there, critics like Jeuxvideo.com and SomosXbox stressed that technical flaws overshadowed the game’s potential. The lack of crossplay and persistent server problems further exacerbated the experience, leaving many reviewers frustrated. Ultimately, the game’s technical performance was a major barrier to enjoyment, with only incremental progress reported rather than meaningful resolution.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown’s replay value thrives on exploration, customization, and social clans but is crippled by repetitive mechanics, grinding, and lackluster racing depth—leaving it a polarizing mix of ambition and tedium.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

55%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The reviewers who highlight positive aspects of Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown’s replay value emphasize its exploration-driven design and variety of activities. Generación Xbox notes that the game encourages engagement through events and exploration, while IGN Spain praises the freedom to explore Hong Kong with friends. Movies Games and Tech acknowledges the appeal of progression systems and exploration, though they caution about grinding. XboxAddict highlights collectibles, car customization, and clan features as incentives for returning, and PlayStation Universe singles out the clan system as a standout element that adds unique motivation. Additionally, GamingTrend points to daily events, seasonal activities, and a large car roster as factors that could sustain interest over time. These positives suggest the game has elements that could keep players invested, particularly those who enjoy open-world racing and social features. However, the negatives dominate the critical consensus, with multiple reviewers criticizing the game’s repetitive mechanics and grind-heavy progression systems. Jeuxvideo.com (multiple times) and New Game Network describe the experience as tedious due to frustrating progression and lack of engaging content. DarkZero and IGN France note that the absence of offline play and AI adaptability without adjustable settings diminishes replay value, while COGconnected and GameCritics highlight pacing issues and a lack of balance between fun and monotony. Critics like Games.cz and PlaySense argue that limited car options and repetitive racing formats fail to maintain long-term appeal. The grind required to unlock content, as mentioned by SomosXbox and GRYOnline.pl, further detracts from enjoyment, making the game feel more like a chore than an engaging experience. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward disappointment, with the game’s replay value being both its strength and weakness. While features like exploration, customization, and online clans offer potential for sustained play, the repetitive tasks, grind-heavy progression, and lack of depth in racing mechanics create significant barriers to long-term engagement. Reviews from IGN Spain and XboxAddict acknowledge the game’s ambitions, but many, including Jeuxvideo.com and IGN France, argue that these elements are undermined by design flaws. The divide between those who appreciate the open-world freedom and those who find it stifled by repetition reflects a broader critique of the title’s ability to balance accessibility with depth. Ultimately, Solar Crown’s replay value hinges on players’ tolerance for its repetitive systems, leaving it as a polarizing entry in the franchise.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

23%

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The initial reception of Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown highlights several positive aspects that resonate with fans of the franchise. Critics like Generación Xbox acknowledge its rewarding experience for longtime enthusiasts despite mechanical flaws, while IGN Spain praises the enjoyable driving mechanics and open-world design. Movies Games and Tech and GRYOnline.pl note the game’s potential, emphasizing a solid driving model, engaging environments, and the promise of future improvements. GameSpew highlights the large open world, varied content, and "solid handling," while Push Square commends the "phenomenal driving experience" with unique vehicles and challenging races. These reviews suggest that the game’s core mechanics and ambition are commendable, offering a nostalgic or engaging foundation for players who appreciate its racing focus. However, the negatives dominate the critical discourse, with repeated complaints about technical shortcomings and lack of polish. IGN Spain and Jeuxvideo.com criticize outdated graphics and frustrating gameplay, while New Game Network and DarkZero label it a "disappointing return" and "average" compared to competitors. PCGamesN describes it as a "frustrating mess," citing conflicting systems and a dull open world, and IGN Adria calls it "shockingly poor." Issues like online instability, performance bugs, and a lack of identity plague the experience, with GamingTrend noting server problems and PlayStation Universe criticizing its regression in innovation. Even GameCritics and Games.cz acknowledge the game’s flaws, suggesting it feels undercooked and unpolished despite its potential. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans heavily toward disappointment, with many viewing Solar Crown as a missed opportunity for the franchise. While some praise its driving mechanics and open-world ambition—IGN Spain, GRYOnline.pl, and Push Square express cautious optimism—the recurring technical issues, dated visuals, and lack of content innovation overshadow these positives. Critics like SomosXbox and COGconnected highlight a failure to honor the series’ legacy, while PlayStation Country and VGC note its underwhelming execution. Though a few see room for improvement through updates, most agree that the game’s flaws significantly detract from its potential, leaving it as a flawed but occasionally enjoyable entry in the racing genre.

TL;DR

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown is a flawed, undercooked racing game that squanders its potential with technical bloat, dated visuals, and online chaos, despite promising driving mechanics and open-world ambition.

MONSTER

Reviews

77 reviews found

Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Sep 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown meets expectations after a long wait, offering a rewarding experience for fans despite some mechanical flaws and a slow start.

Read full review

XboxAddict

Xbox Series X

Sep 6, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown retains the DNA of the series but falls short of capturing the same heart as its predecessors. The game offers a solid experience with room for improvement, especially in terms of social aspects and technical performance.

Read full review

GameCritics

PlayStation 5

Nov 25, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Test Drive Unlimited: Solar Crown is an exciting start with excellent driving physics and attention to detail, but it needs more polish and content variety to reach its potential.

Read full review

SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Sep 11, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown fails to live up to the legacy of its predecessors, offering a nostalgic experience that lacks depth and polish. It has potential but is currently hindered by various issues.

VGC

PlayStation 5

Sep 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown is a perfectly acceptable racing game with solid handling and plenty to do, but suffers from an uninspiring world map and some performance issues, making it unpolished.

Read full review

Push Square

PlayStation 5

Sep 6, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Test Drive Unlimited: Solar Crown provides a phenomenal driving experience with unique vehicles and challenging races. However, technical issues and shortcomings in the atmosphere of Hong Kong Island detract from the overall experience. With planned seasons, there is hope for improvement in the future.

Read full review

GRYOnline.pl

Sep 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite its flaws, the game shows potential with a solid driving model and an engaging open world. The reviewer expresses cautious optimism for future updates.

GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Sep 11, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Test Drive Unlimited: Solar Crown offers a large open world with solid handling and plenty of content, but technical issues, dynamic AI difficulty, and lack of offline mode hinder the experience

Read full review

IGN Spain

Xbox Series X

Sep 17, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

While Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown provides enjoyable driving experiences in an open world, it falls short of competing with top titles in the genre due to its outdated graphics and some technical issues.

Movies Games and Tech

Xbox Series X

Oct 3, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown is enjoyable but flawed, with potential for greatness if technical issues are resolved. Recommended with caution.

Read full review