Pro Cycling Manager 2017 for PC offers cycling enthusiasts the chance to step into the shoes of a team manager and navigate the grueling world of professional cycling. With over 200 races and 500+ stages to compete in, including legendary events like La Vuelta and the iconic Tour de France, the game certainly delivers on quantity. However, it falls short in delivering a truly immersive and enjoyable gaming experience.
One aspect that gives a nostalgic feel is the inclusion of iconic races such as the Tour de France. Cycling fans will appreciate the opportunity to guide their team through the same stages and challenges that real-world riders face. The attention to detail in recreating these races is commendable, capturing the essence of the sport and immersing players in its strategic and tactical elements.
However, the game's shortcomings prevent it from reaching its full potential. One of the major drawbacks is the clunky and unintuitive user interface. Navigating through menus and managing your team can be a frustrating task, dampening the overall experience. This lack of polish adds an unwelcome layer of frustration for players hoping to dive deep into the managerial aspect of the game.
Furthermore, the graphics fail to impress, lacking the visual fidelity that modern gamers have come to expect. Although one could argue that this aligns with the nostalgic ambiance the game aims to achieve, it falls short of capturing the charm of retro visuals found in classic games. Instead, it feels more like a lack of effort or outdated technology, resulting in a subpar visual experience.
Another area of disappointment lies in the AI of both your team and the competing cyclists. Team management often feels shallow, with limited options to truly impact the outcome of races. Similarly, the AI-controlled riders lack the realism and dynamism seen in other sports management simulations. This detracts from the overall depth and challenge of the game, leaving players wanting more.
Despite its flaws, Pro Cycling Manager 2017 manages to capture some elements of the sport that will appeal to die-hard cycling enthusiasts. The inclusion of iconic races and the strategic decision-making involved in managing a team provides moments of enjoyment and satisfaction. However, these positives are overshadowed by the game's lackluster user interface, dated visuals, and underwhelming AI.
In conclusion, Pro Cycling Manager 2017 falls short of delivering a truly immersive and enjoyable retro gaming experience. While it captures some nostalgic elements and offers the opportunity to participate in iconic races, the game's flaws in areas such as user interface, graphics, and AI prevent it from reaching its full potential. Die-hard cycling fans may find some enjoyment, but for most gamers, the mediocre execution leaves much to be desired.