Ubisoft Ivory Tower will release the "RC Frenzy" update for "The Crew Motorfest" on May 6th, introducing remote-controlled cars as a new vehicle category. The expansion is part of the Year 3 Pass but can also be purchased as a standalone DLC.
The release on May 6th marks the start of Season 9 and brings a dedicated playlist with ten events. The technical centerpiece is a completely new physics engine for the miniature vehicles. This enables jumps and maneuvers that are impossible with regular cars. Players can thus reach areas and rooftops that were previously inaccessible. In cockpit view, the vehicles are also controlled from the perspective of a miniature figure.
Top-down perspective and retro racing
The developers have incorporated nostalgia into some events, reminiscent of "Burnout Paradise" with its mini-cars. A special oval track is driven from a fixed top-down perspective, evoking classics like Micro Machines or RC Pro-Am. This mode also supports local split-screen. Five RC models will be available at launch, categorized into existing classes such as Street Tier 1 and Rally Raid.
While the previous NASCAR update was free for all players, RC Frenzy follows the model of the "Chase Squad" expansion. Those without a game pass must purchase the DLC separately. However, a single RC car can be unlocked without spending real money via the Live Summit or the Prestige Ticket Shop.
However, there is growing resistance within the community to the pricing policy in "The Crew Motorfest"Since these are fictional PHAZR models and not licensed brands like Traxxas or Arrma, some players question their premium status. Their classification into regular performance categories also seems physically dubious. A remote-controlled car will appear unrealistic in a direct comparison with real road cars."
The introduction of a dedicated physics layer for RC cars is interesting from a gameplay perspective, as it offers potential for vertical map exploration. However, the fact that Ubisoft Ivory Tower is once again charging for this without providing licensed originals leaves a bad taste in the mouth. For casual gamers, the free model from Summit is perfectly adequate.
