Open-world, multiplayer racing game
The Crew MotorFest is an open-world racing game with both single-player and multiplayer game modes. Developed by Ubisoft Ivory Tower, it is a sequel to The Crew 2 and serves as the third entry in the series. When compared to its predecessors, it features an improved gameplay engine, superior textures, and a new setting.
With its open-world approach to racing and the presence of a festival, which serves as the central gameplay and race hub, The Crew MotorFest is clearly intended to compete with Forza Horizon 5 and the other Forza Horizon games.
Welcome to Hawaii
Much of the core gameplay features from the previous entries in the series remain in place, with a variety of different race options, a single-player campaign, and options for multiplayer or "crew" racing. This time, however, the game is no longer set across USA's mainland and is instead based on Hawaii's O'ahu island.
Much like The Crew 1 and 2, it remains an open-world experience, with players having the ability to explore the landscape freely. O'ahu itself is not mapped on a 1:1 basis but serves as an amalgamation of Hawaiian locations.
Cars, planes, and boats
The game sees the player character participate in a festival on the island of O'ahu, and there is an over-arching story based on building a reputation for racing excellence in various disciplines.
Comparisons will be made with Forza Horizon 5, with The Crew MotorFest deploying the same open-world and festival concepts that the game is known for. While it is difficult to match the polish and amount of content Forza Horizon provides, The Crew MotorFest is a solid alternative with options to control planes and boats.
Celebrate car culture
With The Crew MotorFest, players are given the opportunity to enjoy different aspects of car culture. Insert The Playlist, which is a set of short campaigns, each focusing on a specific theme. Join in-game car shows, themed events, special races, and unique challenges that bring these themes to life. From vintage cars to modern electric machines, you will be treated to different car cultures and unique gameplay experiences.
Also, as its namesake, this installment features The Motorfest. This is a dynamic program in the game taking the form of a festival. Like the Playlist, it also features various theme-driven events that let the player complete different tasks in exchange for rewards. It also serves as an exclusive platform for collecting cars of the past, present, and future, letting you show off your customized kits or your driving skills.
What’s new in Season 4?
The Crew Motorfest’s Season 4, the last Year 1 update, kicks off with a celebration of Lowrider culture, featuring 29 stunning cars, pulsating music in diverse playlists, and vibrant artistry. This season, the Custom Frenzy Main Stage takes the spotlight, celebrating the creativity and flair of car customization. Each month, players can complete challenges to earn special rewards for their racing prowess. The first month kicks off with Lowrider Custom and Drag & Donk Custom themes.
The first Legend vehicle reward is the eye-catching Chevrolet Impala LowRider Red Duchess Edition (1967), a must-have for any car enthusiast. Then, the next month will bring in restomod events such as “Lasting Legacy” and “RingBrothers Makeover.” These themes highlight the beauty of restoring cars to their factory specs, honoring vehicles that have left a lasting legacy. Featured is the RingBrothers Dodge Charger Tusk, a standout from the 2023 SEMA Show.
Meanwhile, the second Legend vehicle reward is the Dodge Challenger R/T Riff Edition (1970), a classic transformed into a modern marvel. Moving on, the next month will bring the themes “Yiannimize” and “Creators Mastery Works,” where the focus is on creating original and iconic designs. Its featured reward is the sleek Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT Basalt Edition (2022). Furthermore, it will also provide a sneak peek into what’s coming in Year 2.
Finally, the last month of the season will see a dive into Japanese Custom culture and a spooky Spooktacular theme. Expect to see stunning Liberty Walk customs and fan-favorite Nissans, showcasing the roots of JDM culture through drift and touge races. The month’s prize is the Mazda RX-3 Raigyo Edition (1972). Plus, as mentioned, the season will introduce 21 new vehicles and bring eight fan-favorites from The Crew 2.
A fun, engaging racing sim
The Crew MotorFest brings the franchise to a whole new level, with its refreshing new location and a host of new features that significantly expand its coverage and its immersion. Despite the out-of-scale attempt at capturing the majestic landscapes of O’ahu, Hawai’i, the game makes up for it with its range of rotating themed events designed to cater to different kinds of car enthusiasts.
