In a review of the game BeamNG.drive, we will get to know one of the best simulation games that rely on an advanced physics engine to provide an unparalleled realistic driving experience. Since its first release in 2013 as an early access version, this game has attracted the attention of many car simulation enthusiasts due to its ability to deliver accurate physics and detailed crash details, making the driving experience and adventures in the game closely mimic reality.
In our review of BeamNG.drive, we will analyze various aspects of the game, starting from technical aspects such as the physics and graphics engine, to the main features of the game. We will also highlight the negative aspects that players may face, in addition to reviewing the player communities that have emerged around this game.
A brief overview of BeamNG.drive:
The game BeamNG.drive is classified as an open-world simulation game that allows players to test driving different types of vehicles in various environments. The game relies heavily on the realistic physics engine which enables players to simulate car collisions and accidents accurately and in detail. This allows players to see the realistic impact of collisions on the car body and how the vehicle’s performance changes based on that.
Unlike many racing or simple challenge car games, BeamNG.drive allows players to explore an open world and interact with vehicles in innovative ways. Players have the freedom to choose between sports cars, heavy vehicles, and even large trucks, providing unlimited diversity in experiences.
Review of BeamNG.drive:
The Physics Engine: The Heart of the Game
One of the main reasons that made BeamNG.drive achieve this great success is the advanced physics engine that relies on “Soft-body Physics” technology. This technology involves a flexible simulation of the car body, meaning that each part of the car is calculated independently from the others, allowing for extremely realistic responses during driving or accidents.
Realistic Impact of Collisions: When a car in the game is involved in a collision, the damage is calculated based on the car’s speed, angle of impact, and the materials used in building the car. This means that the damage is not pre-programmed, but calculated in real time, making each collision unique and happening differently each time.
Dynamic Interaction with the Environment: Cars in BeamNG.drive also interact with the surrounding elements in the environment. For example, when driving on rough terrain or attempting to climb over large obstacles, the car’s performance is realistically affected, with players feeling differences in acceleration, friction, and even the car’s stability during driving.
Graphics and Visual Details:
In terms of graphics, BeamNG.drive may not be among the most visually impressive games compared to major racing games like Forza Horizon or Gran Turismo. However, what compensates for that is the level of detailed design that can be seen in the cars and environment design. Each vehicle in the game is meticulously designed to be realistic.
Detailed Car Details: Each car contains high-quality detailed models including engine design, structure, and even the suspension system. Players can open the engine cover, inspect internal components like turbo or fan, adding a new level of realism to the game.
Diverse Environments: The game offers several open environments ranging from cities, mountains, forests, to desert roads. While the world design does not contain stunning details as in some other games, the large diversity in environments makes players feel challenged and thrilled when driving in different weather conditions.
Driving Experience:
What truly sets BeamNG.drive apart from other games is the realistic driving experience it provides. The driving in the game is not just aimed at speed enthusiasts, but offers a comprehensive experience that anyone interested in physics details and fluidity can enjoy.
Vehicle Behavior: Each car in the game has a different behavior based on its characteristics, such as weight, speed, brake systems, and suspension. For example, lightweight sports cars give you quick acceleration and response, while heavy trucks are less flexible and require more precise control to avoid accidents.
Realistic Challenges: The game differs from traditional racing games in that players cannot simply press the accelerator and race without facing difficulties. You will find yourself having to manage gears properly, control the cooling system, and even pay attention to tire friction with the ground during sharp turns.
Game Modes:
BeamNG.drive offers multiple game modes, making it refreshing and full of challenges.
Free Mode: This is the basic mode where you can drive freely in any environment you choose without restrictions or specific goals. This mode allows players to experience various vehicles and environments and test the limits of the physics engine.
Missions and Challenges: The game also includes a variety of missions and challenges ranging from cargo delivery, challenge races, or attempting to escape from chases. These challenges add more excitement and force players to use driving skills strategically.
Modification and Customization: Vehicle modification is an important element in the game. Players can fully customize vehicles, from the engine to the chassis, and make improvements or changes that affect performance in the game. For example, you can add a turbo to the car engine to improve speed, or change the suspension system to improve responsiveness on rough roads.
Player Community and Modding:
It is also important to note in the review of BeamNG.drive that a major feature that has kept this sought-after title continually attracting players is Modding. The game fully supports modifications, allowing users to design new cars, add maps and different environments, or even modify the physics systems within the game.
Huge Variety of Mods: There is a massive library of mods that can be downloaded from the player community. Whether you want to drive new supercars or experience complex environmental conditions, the player community offers a wide range of options. This makes the game continue to grow and evolve over time.
Collaboration with Developers: Thanks to the significant interaction between players and developers, regular updates are released that add new content and improvements based on player feedback.
Main Objectives in BeamNG.drive:
Although BeamNG.drive is an open-world game primarily focusing on simulation and realistic physics, it also includes a number of main tasks that players can explore and achieve. These tasks add a layer of challenges and activities that players can engage in beyond free driving. Some of these tasks include:
Driving Tests: Players are required to complete designated tracks with a focus on precise control of the car in different environments such as mountain roads or narrow streets.
Cargo Delivery Missions: These missions require players to transport specific cargo or goods from one point to another without damaging them, relying on balanced control and safe driving.
Police Chase Escapes: In some missions, players must escape from police chases, putting their fast and precise driving skills to the test.
Drifting and Drifting Challenges: Some challenges involve achieving the best results in drifting and drifting, requiring precise acceleration and braking control.
Crash Collision Encounters: In these missions, players are tasked with participating in calculated collision accidents, where they must cause or avoid the most damage based on the mission.
Challenge Races: Some missions include time or AI challenge races on various tracks.
Stunt Show Missions: Players are tasked with performing dangerous stunt maneuvers or jumping the car over obstacles to achieve specific goals.
Pros of BeamNG.drive:
Realistic Physics Engine – The biggest advantage of the game is the advanced physics engine that offers an extremely realistic simulation experience for accidents and driving. The game’s ability to deliver precise responses to every part of the car in collision situations and interaction with the environment makes it unique.
Vehicle Diversity – The game offers a huge variety of different vehicles, ranging from fast sports cars to heavy trucks and even off-road vehicles. This diversity allows players to experience multiple types of driving according to their preferences.
Control Freedom – The game gives players great freedom to customize and experience different vehicles and environments. The ability to fully modify cars, including the engine, tires, and suspension, provides unlimited possibilities for driving experiences.
Modding Support – The game’s active player community offers continuous modifications and updates. Players can download mods that add new cars, maps, and missions, increasing the game’s lifespan and diversity.
Dynamic Environment Interaction – The game offers dynamically interactive environments, where environmental factors like terrain and weather affect car performance. This feature adds an additional layer of realistic challenges.
Diverse Player Community – BeamNG.drive attracts a wide range of players, from professional driving enthusiasts to beginners interested in testing car physics. Having a large community supporting the game provides helpful resources like tutorial videos and tips.
Continuous Improvement – Developers continuously support the game through regular updates, making the game in a state of constant evolution in terms of mechanics and overall experience.
Cons of BeamNG.drive:
Lack of Official Multiplayer Mode – Despite the presence of unofficial multiplayer modifications, the game lacks an official multiplayer mode, which may deprive some players of experiencing cooperative driving.
Simple Environmental Graphics – Although the car designs are detailed, environmental details may appear limited and sometimes lack visual appeal compared to other games that offer more detailed and vibrant environments.
High System Requirements – The game requires high technical specifications to run smoothly, especially when running on high settings or with many vehicles in the scene. This can be a barrier for some players who have average performance devices.
Steep Learning Curve for Beginners – BeamNG.drive can be very challenging for new players or those with little experience in simulation games. The game requires a deep understanding of driving mechanics and vehicle control, making it unsuitable for everyone.
Lack of Story or Progression – The game lacks a clear story structure or progression in missions as found in traditional racing games. The absence of a clear progression system or continuous rewards may make some players feel bored after a while.
Critical Reviews of BeamNG.drive:
BeamNG.drive has received multiple accolades from both critics and players alike for its realistic physics and unique driving experience it offers.
Here are the 5 most prominent ratings from notable critics:
1. IGN:
IGN described the game as “an unparalleled driving experience that offers stunning realism in collision and crash simulations.” They particularly praised the extensive flexibility in modifications and freedom the game provides to players. Rating: 8.5/10.
2. PC Gamer:
PC Gamer praised the amazing realism offered by BeamNG.drive, stating that the game provides “a unique simulation experience for car enthusiasts.” However, they noted that performance requirements may be an issue for some players. Rating: 8/10.
3. Eurogamer:
Eurogamer praised the realistic physics provided by the game, describing it as “a revolution in car simulation games.” However, they mentioned that the game needs improvements in environmental details and multiplayer mode. Rating: 7.5/10.
4. GameSpot:
GameSpot mentioned that BeamNG.drive may be the best game for enthusiasts of accidents and realistic driving details, but it needs improvement in world graphics and environment design. Rating: 7/10.
5. Rock Paper Shotgun:
Critics at Rock Paper Shotgun praised the continuous support from developers and the modifications offered by the player community, considering these features make the game always new and worth experiencing. Rating: 9/10.
Conclusion:
BeamNG.drive is a unique simulation game that offers a real driving experience thanks to its advanced physics engine. If you are looking for a game that provides a deep, detailed, and realistic driving experience, then this game is worth trying.
However, it is important to note that this game is not aimed at those looking for fast races and traditional games, but rather for those who love to delve into the depths of the physics and technical details of the car world.
Thanks to the continuous modifications from the player community and the constant support from developers, BeamNG.drive seems to be continually growing and evolving, making it one of the best car simulation games currently available.
