Over the years, gamers have raced supercars and reigned supreme in motorbike races. Passionate cyclists have also explored virtual cycling products. However, many keen cyclists also tend to dabble in the variety of video games associated with this somewhat niche area of gaming.
Games in this category tend to differ, with some products involving open-world adventures on a bike, others serving up epic racing action, and some releases where players become a team manager and have the responsibility of leading a cohort of riders to victory. Essentially, in the same way online casino gamers can jump between themed Irish slots and online craps games, given the diverse range of online products online casinos house, cycling-mad gamers have an array of titles to tackle in this alluring genre of gaming.
However, despite all its undoubted strengths and the undeniable appeal of riding a powerful bike in the gaming sphere, not every cycling game has been worth exploring. In fact, we’ve been exposed to some terrible releases over the years. In order to ensure you’re avoiding these shoddy products, below we highlight some key things to look for in a solid cycling video game.
Physics and control mechanics must be right
Cycling games in the virtual environment need to mirror the types of elements cyclists contend with in the real world. In order to achieve this, the controls need to feel intuitive, pumping and counter-pumping needs to be factored in, and managing braking and more must be another key mechanic gamers can experience. Essentially, if the physics and control mechanics don’t replicate the type of cycling experiences avid cyclists take on, then it won’t appeal to the them in the gaming sphere.
It needs to be believable
While some cyclists don’t mind taking down enemies with their bikes and shooting a variety of weapons while avoiding being hit themselves, generally, cyclists want something that depicts this beloved hobby in an accurate manner. For example, after a huge hill climb, the cyclist needs to be showing signs of tiredness before tackling the next part of the course. Likewise, there needs to be a clear distinction between flat and rollers, while any issues that can occur with the bike need to be factored in to offer a realistic experience. Essentially, if it isn’t believable, then it isn’t worth playing.
Immersive environments are important
In the same way that many diehard bikers tackle a variety of terrains and explore new settings on their precious two-wheeled products, cycling games also need to include the same type of immersion. With gamers generally looking to escape from the real world while diving into the various releases out there, providing them with a real sense of escapism is a necessity. Some of the biggest and best cycling games have achieved this, with impressively detailed maps, terrains, and more to navigate.
Customization features are essential
Alongside testing themselves on new terrains and improving aspects of their lives like their fitness, many avid cyclists also enjoy customizing their bikes. In the gaming sphere, numerous products have offered the same type of customization features, with players being able to upgrade their bikes, purchase new accessories, snap up new frames, and so much more. Enabling players to not only give their bikes a facelift but also to feel a real sense of progression, the best cycling games tend to come with customization tools.
Eye-catching graphics
While we could end with a strong multiplayer aspect and easy-to-grasp controls, cycling video games also need to have eye-catching graphics ahead of anything else for many players. If they aren’t presented properly, the game in question simply won’t stand out.
