Pro Cycling Manager 25 Review Summary

Significantly improved graphics and visuals: The game features significantly improved graphics due to the new engine. Reviewers noted better visual details, more realistic environments, and enhanced overall visual appeal compared to previous versions. Some even stated that the graphical upgrade alone makes the game worth purchasing.

Meaningful evolution and improvements: Reviewers feel that the current version of the game represents a significant step forward for the series. They highlight noticeable improvements in both management and gameplay, making it a worthwhile upgrade compared to previous installments.

Customizable gameplay via sliders: The addition of sliders to customize gameplay and AI is a welcome feature. These sliders allow players to fine-tune the difficulty and realism of the races to their preferences, enhancing the overall experience.

Faster loading and simulations: The game features faster loading times and quicker simulations. This allows players to progress through seasons more rapidly and spend more time actively racing, improving the overall pace of the game.

Improved sponsor system: The game's sponsor system has been improved, adding a new layer of depth to the career mode. This enhancement allows for a more engaging and immersive experience as players progress through the game.

Frequent crashes, unplayable state: The game suffers from frequent crashes, stability issues, and launch failures, often related to DirectX or other system incompatibilities. These crashes can occur during various stages, including planning, races, and even before the game starts, making it unplayable for many users. This widespread instability severely impacts the gaming experience.

Lacks innovation, feels repetitive: Several reviews express disappointment that the game feels too similar to previous versions, lacking significant improvements or revolutionary changes. Some consider it a waste of money, suggesting that sticking with older versions might be preferable. This lack of innovation is a recurring concern.

Broken/unfinished game modes: Several reviewers point out broken or unfinished features, such as the pro cyclist mode and career mode. These modes suffer from issues like incorrect point allocation, salary calculation errors, and progress-blocking bugs. This makes key game modes unplayable or frustrating.

Lack of visual detail/variety: Despite visual updates, reviewers note a lack of detail and variety in character models and equipment. Cyclists look too similar, and bike frames lack brand differentiation, diminishing the visual appeal and immersion. This suggests that the visual improvements are superficial.

Poor modding support/communication: The game's stability is affected by mods, and developers don't communicate well with modders. While some database issues related to the workshop have been resolved, the lack of support for modding is a concern. This limits the potential for community-driven improvements and content.

AI behavior unchanged/adequate: AI behavior remains largely the same as in previous versions, though some players find the new AI acceptable. This suggests that while not significantly improved, the AI is not a major detractor.

Smoother menus and gameplay: The game's menus and overall gameplay experience are reported to be smoother, suggesting improvements to the user interface and game performance.

Pro Cyclist Mode more complex: The Pro Cyclist Mode offers full season planning without crashes, but some players find it more complex compared to the previous version (PCM 2022). This indicates a trade-off between stability and ease of use in the career mode.

All teams are licensed: All teams within the game are licensed, enhancing the authenticity and immersion for players who appreciate real-world cycling teams.

Fast loading times on PC: Many reviewers have noted that the game has very fast loading times on PC. This includes loading into races and even simulating them.

Meaningful improvement over predecessors: Several reviewers feel this installment is a notable improvement over previous years, making it a good entry point for newcomers or those who haven't purchased a PCM game recently. Some call it the best in years and a step in the right direction for the series.

Relies too much on community: This point expresses a negative sentiment about the game relying too much on the community. It is somewhat vague, but does point to a potential issue with the game's development or support.

Uncertain future engagement: These points are too vague and lack any specific feedback about the game. They express general sentiments without providing any concrete details or examples.

Recommended for cycling fans: This point is a simple recommendation based on fandom. While positive, it lacks specific details about the game itself.

Small development team: The game was developed by a small studio. This information provides context about the game's development and potential limitations, but doesn't directly address gameplay or features.

Increased system requirements: The game's minimum system requirements have increased due to the new engine. This is a factual statement that may impact players with older hardware, but it doesn't offer specific feedback on the game's design or mechanics.

Preliminary evaluation: The review is based on limited playtime. This disclaimer is important for understanding the scope and limitations of the evaluation, but it doesn't provide specific feedback on the game itself.