In the original review for DriveClub, I cautioned users to either wait until the kinks had been worked out or until the free version was released for PS+.

Since then, both conditions have been met. Most of the online issues and driving quirks have been fixed or tuned. And, if you are a PS+ member, a pretty packed edition is available to you, free of charge.

Horsepower Expansion

Last week, the most recent expansion pack debuted, rounding out a very extensive, but not expensive, DLC catalog. Each pack is around $6, and features new events and cars.

In Horsepower, you are getting a new 11-event "mini-career tour." The events are diverse, including point-to-point races, drift challenges, hot laps, and multi-race "cups." Incorporated are the sectional challenges that were a signature element of DriveClub upon launch.

Some of the newest cars include super/hyper-cars, which feature top-end speed and acceleration with surprisingly graceful handling. The full list includes the Ferrari LaFerrari FXX K, McLaren P1 GTR, Nissan GT-R NISMO, Renault Mégane R.S. 275 Trophy-R and the Ferrari FXX Evolution.

Patch 1.20

Some new game elements were also patched in last week, continuing the steady development this game has seen post-launch:

-For power-users, you can now level past 60 into a new Elite category.

-Some settings are now tunable, such as face-offs, camera shake, and time-trial ghosts. While I prefer all of those things left on or default, options for users are never bad.

-A new Random event option will get you into a race as fast as possible, and it will challenge you with a bit of the unknown.
 

I was not in love with DriveClub when it came out, mostly due to online issues and the driving engine. I feel like both have been tweaked to the point where DriveClub is a definite 'recommend' for those looking for a challenging pseudo-simulation racing title. The focus is all on the driving, so don't expect to be tuning or navigating a career. Above all, DriveClub remains one of the most visually appealing games of this generation.