Pro Cycling Manager 2018

Pro Cycling Manager 2018 is a niche cycling management simulation that continues the legacy of its predecessors with minor yet notable improvements. Players appreciate the detailed career and pro cyclist modes, which offer deep management and rider progression mechanics. The improved AI behavior, especially in breakaways and sprints, adds more realism to the races. However, many users highlight that the game feels like a yearly roster update rather than a full new installment, with graphics and commentary largely unchanged from previous versions. Bugs and glitches remain a significant concern, including crashes near race finishes, graphical oddities, and gameplay bugs affecting team management and race dynamics.

Despite its flaws, the game retains a loyal fanbase due to its unique focus on cycling and the depth of management options. The availability of mods, especially for real names and updated rosters, enhances the experience. However, the high price point and lack of substantial innovation deter new players and those owning recent versions. Overall, PCM 2018 is recommended primarily for dedicated fans rather than newcomers.

Highlights

Players praise the improved AI that makes breakaways and sprint finishes more realistic and challenging. The career and pro cyclist modes offer engaging management and progression systems, allowing players to control entire teams or individual riders with depth and flexibility. The multiplayer mode adds unpredictability and replayability, and the game benefits from a robust modding community that provides updated rosters, real names, and additional content.

Graphically, while not cutting-edge, the game runs smoothly on modest hardware and features a sharper race interface and stylish team management screens. Enthusiasts appreciate the game's unique niche focus and its ability to simulate cycling tactics effectively.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the game's lack of significant updates compared to previous versions, with many players describing it as a "copy and paste" or a simple roster update. Persistent bugs and crashes, especially during races near the finish line, frustrate users and impact playability. The commentary is repetitive and outdated, detracting from immersion. Graphical glitches such as riders passing through obstacles and floating objects are frequently reported. Gameplay issues like unrealistic AI cooperation, poor team tactics, and flawed sprint mechanics also diminish the experience. Additionally, the high price point is deemed unjustified given the limited improvements, leading many to recommend purchasing earlier versions or waiting for sales.