As a longtime fan of the "Test Drive Unlimited" series, I want to see it succeed, but I can no longer overlook the issues with this latest installment.

Let’s start with the positives. The core gameplay is solid, and the physics are better than expected, capturing some of the original game's sense of speed and control. However, these positives are overshadowed by several significant flaws, especially considering I spent $80 on the Gold edition.

There are several issues with this game, but I’ll focus on what matters most to me. Many fans, including myself, feel that the heart of the "Test Drive" series is its lifestyle aspect rather than just the racing. This new installment misses that mark significantly. In the older games, I loved exploring different stores, checking out cars, browsing clothing, and visiting real estate agents. One of my fondest memories is walking into the Aston Martin dealership, customizing my car with various options, and then taking delivery of it. That experience was special and personal. Now, everything has been consolidated into one location on the map, which, in my opinion, has stripped away the charm and depth of the series. The new version offers a more basic and less engaging experience, which is a letdown for fans like me.

The AI and the in-game economy also need improvement. The AI either rockets off the starting line or crashes into walls, making races frustrating and grinding for money challenging. The economy is unbalanced: most races reward between $25,000 and $30,000, regardless of the vehicle type, while cars cost upwards of $12 million. Although there are ways to earn extra money through collectibles and secondary tasks, these become repetitive and insufficient as you progress. Incremental race rewards, such as $50,000 to $70,000 for higher-level races, would better align with the game's economy. Additionally, the inability to sell vehicles adds to the frustration, limiting players' options and impeding progress.

The driving mechanics are enjoyable, but the overall immersion is lacking. Problems such as always-online requirements, server issues, and optimization further detract from the experience.

In its current state, I cannot recommend this game, but I hope my feedback is taken constructively. The potential is there, and with significant improvements, it could once again capture the magic of the original series.