DriveClub, the legendary PS4 racer from shuttered Runcorn studio Evolution, has such an interesting story. Originally announced alongside the PS4, the game had been intended as a launch title – we even played it in a big London church Sony had rented to showcase the new system prior to its release. But then it was delayed multiple times, until 7th October, 2014.
The initial wave of reviews were pretty unremarkable. We awarded it a 7/10 here on Push Square, describing it as “archaic” – a sentiment widely shared at the time, due to the title’s more traditional progression system. Its Metacritic sat at around 71 when all was said and done – a disappointment from the developer of the critically acclaimed MotorStorm games.
Over time, though, DriveClub blossomed into something truly special. Outstanding post-release support saw the addition of various circuits, events, and vehicles. A year later it received an enormous expansion allowing you to ride motorbikes – and it was even eventually ported to PSVR, although you needed to purchase that version separately.
The game’s controversial PS Plus Edition, which functioned a bit like a demo, introduced a new audience to the title – and the addition of weather effects remain some of the most impressive on any console even today. From disastrous delays to middling reviews to a long-lasting legacy, DriveClub is fondly remembered today.