The anticipation surrounding Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown is reaching new heights as the iconic franchise returns after a decade-long hiatus, promising to redefine the open-world racing genre. However, fans will have to wait a bit longer than expected, as the release date has been subject to multiple delays and adjustments.
In a recent 30-minute TDU Connect presentation by Nacon, the first-ever gameplay footage of TDUSC was unveiled, offering glimpses of the Solar Hotel, thrilling racing action on the streets of Hong Kong Island, and social features showcasing player interactions. Unfortunately, alongside these exciting revelations came the disappointing news of another delay.
As initially speculated, Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown is now scheduled for an early 2024 release. This delay pushes back the exploration of Hong Kong Island, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the new installment in the series.
Nacon has softened the blow of the delay by announcing a closed beta for selected fans. Scheduled to commence on July 24, 2023, and lasting for three days, the closed beta offers a sneak peek into the game. Platforms for the beta are yet to be confirmed, but fans can increase their chances of participating by subscribing to the official Test Drive Unlimited newsletter.
A closer look at Hong Kong Island reveals a diverse landscape, from narrow town streets to wide open highways and off-road mountain trails. KT Racing, the creative force behind the game, shared visual updates in a recent newsletter, emphasizing the recreation of the 370 square-mile landscape at a 1:1 scale. While not an exact replica, adjustments have been made to enhance the driving experience and accommodate fast cars while preserving the identity of Hong Kong Island.
Despite the ongoing anticipation and delayed release, the recent newsletters from KT Racing provide some solace to fans, offering insights into dealerships and car customization. The game promises a unique and immersive experience in the world of Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown.
While the exact release date is yet to be confirmed, a Nacon financial document suggests a Q1 2024 release window, with February/March 2024 as a potential timeframe. The game is set to launch on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, marking it as a current-gen-only title, as the PS4 and Xbox One versions have been canceled. Notably, the Nintendo Switch is no longer listed as a platform, indicating that TDUSC may not be arriving on Nintendo’s hybrid console. As players eagerly await the opportunity to cruise around Hong Kong Island, the wait extends to early 2024.
