Pro Cycling Manager 25
" Realistic cycling simulation with deep team management but frequent crashes disrupt gameplay "
Pro Cycling Manager 25 Review
Pro Cycling Manager 25 delivers modest graphical improvements and a revamped sponsor system, enhancing visual appeal and management depth. The landscapes and stage details are praised for their realism and immersive quality, marking a significant upgrade from previous versions.
However, the game suffers from critical bugs, including frequent crashes in career mode, problematic contract negotiations, and game-breaking issues preventing progression. AI behavior remains simplistic and unrealistic, with tactical flaws in sprints and mountain stages diminishing gameplay authenticity. Many players express frustration over repetitive commentary, lack of dynamic team goals, and outdated animations.
While the modding community helps patch some issues, the limited developer team and yearly release cycle hinder substantial improvements. Fans appreciate the potential but caution prospective buyers due to technical problems and minimal gameplay evolution. Overall, the game offers a visually enhanced but mechanically underwhelming experience that requires patience and tolerance for bugs.
Highlights
Graphical enhancements are the most praised aspect, with detailed, lifelike stages and environments.
The new sponsor system adds strategic depth, especially for smaller teams.
Quality of life improvements and stable performance on platforms like Steam Deck receive positive notes.
Fans appreciate the game's immersive 3D experience and visual polish compared to earlier editions.
Criticisms
Players commonly criticize persistent game-breaking bugs that hinder career mode progression and cause crashes.
The AI is considered unintelligent, leading to unrealistic tactics and race outcomes.
Many find the gameplay mechanics stagnant, with minimal innovation and repetitive commentary.
Financial management bugs and contract issues frustrate users managing smaller teams.
The lack of dynamic team strategies and rider personalities reduces immersion.
Overall, the game feels rushed with insufficient testing and polish.
Pros
- • Significant graphical improvements create stunning and immersive cycling environments.
- • Sponsor system overhaul adds meaningful strategic management elements.
- • Quality of life updates improve user interface and gameplay flow.
- • Runs well on Steam Deck, enabling portable play and simulation.
- • Detailed stage designs and landscapes enhance realism.
- • Visual glitches and animation flaws are minimized compared to past versions.
- • Allows smaller national teams to enter Pro Continental and WorldTour ranks.
Cons
- • Frequent crashes and freezes disrupt career mode and gameplay.
- • AI lacks tactical intelligence, producing unrealistic race scenarios.
- • Game-breaking bugs prevent progression and ruin save files.
- • Contract negotiation and financial systems have serious bugs.
- • Repetitive commentary reduces immersion during races.
- • Limited team communication and no dynamic goal changes mid-race.
- • Outdated animations and rider models reduce visual variety.
Rating Criteria
New graphics for an even more realistic simulation. Become a team manager and lead your riders to the top. Choosing sponsors, recruiting riders, managing the race, it's all up to you.