With over 25 years of experience in the racing game development scene, it’s safe to say Italian studio Milestone has cemented its place as one of its most prevalent developers. Outside of the official F1 and WRC games, it’s established a foothold in almost every facet of modern motorsport and while double-A budgets haven’t always produced the slickest of end products, it’s gradually built a portfolio of solid racing simulators. MotoGP 20 is the latest addition to that portfolio, continuing Milestone’s commitment to Nintendo Switch as a platform, and showcasing just how far its recreation of motorcycle racing’s premier league has come.
And with the sporting world effectively on hold at the moment, simulators have become even more essential. Thankfully, Milestone has been working hard with some much-needed changes to the core mechanics of bike performance. The introduction of a new asymmetric tyre wear model recreates an authentic deterioration of your tyres, something that you’ll really feel when playing on Realism and Extreme difficulty modes. Both fuel consumption and braking have also been revamped, with the latter incorporating the ability to control front and rear brakes independently (or you can map both to the one trigger if you're feeling cheeky).
For purists and long-time players, these challenges will feel like a breath of petrol-scented fresh air, but Milestone’s dedication to perfecting the crispness of its on-track racing comes at a price: the threshold for novice and newer players. Despite all the modes MotoGP 20 has to offer, it’s really lacking in a proper tutorial mode. Of course, you can tweak braking and other options at any time, but the game really needed something to break down the different systems and how greater control can reap faster lap times at the risk of being punished for the slightest error.
Overall, this is the best package Milestone has ever produced in terms of polish and overall presentation. The overall orange and pink colour scheme really works, as do the smooth transitions between modes and screens. The use of actually decent stock music (something Milestone racers have always struggled with) might seem minor, but it shows that the developer has really been taking note of the quality Codemasters has been pulling off with its premier Formula 1 series in recent years.
That extends into the Career mode, which delivers one of the best and most in-depth takes on the sport yet. The newly introduced aerodynamic model and the impressively detailed damage system will affect how your bike performs at high speeds, and while you can turn this off (a wise decision for less experienced players) it makes for a thrilling recreation of high-speed motorsport. The better you perform, the better the sponsorship and contracts. With more cash comes the ability to hire more experienced engineers who can upgrade and enhance your bike based on your feedback. It’s just a shame that the commentary track never really lifts the experience; instead, it comes off as flat and phoned-in.
Historic Mode is easily one of MotoGP 20’s best additions, serving up a cross between the relatively common scenario-based challenges we’ve seen in other racing and sports sims and the daily activity/reward setup designed to keep players returning every day. Don’t worry, it’s not a ‘battle pass’ with a price tag, but rather a set of three challenges that take inspiration from memorable races. Admittedly, Milestone doesn’t quite plumb the depths of its own history in a way we would have liked – niche motorsport or not, MotoGP has seen some incredible moments in its 70-year history – but there are still some interesting scenarios to wrestle with.
What sets it apart is the way each scenario changes not just the conditions of the race day or track, but the specifications of the bike. You’ll likely sink a considerable investment of time into the Career mode, systematically graduating from Moto3 all the way up to the big league itself, but having to control a four-stroke beast as it roars (especially when you’re competing on Extreme difficulty) you’ll find your honed skills pushed to the test. The rewards you earn can then be spent in the Historic Market, which regularly updates with new riders and bikes. It’s basic, but it’s a step in the right direction for the series in terms of player retention.
In terms of performance, MotoGP 20 is one of the better ports of Milestone’s considerable catalogue. The developer has been known to struggle when it comes to visual polish on the track (just look at the early MXGPs on other console platforms back at the start of the generation), but improvements to overall performance have made it into the Switch version as well. While there is some blurring and rasterisation on drivers and on-track environmental assets, the overall presentation is impressive, especially with the rendering of the assets around the track itself. The framerate is stable too, which makes all the difference when you’re jostling for position on the final lap.
Conclusion
The MotoGP series has been a bit of a mixed bag over the years, but with MotoGP 20 Milestone is finally beginning to realise its vision for a full-bodied racing simulation. The considerable Career mode offers a deep management experience, while the introduction of Historic Mode adds a fun way to earn rewards for daily challenges. But it’s the changes to on-track performance and the deeper bike mechanics that make this a truly realistic, if not particularly penetrable, experience.
Comments 67
wow i can not remember the last time a nintendo console got a racing game that was not arcady and totally cartoonish
This might be worth it. Motorcycles have always seemed cool to me and I don't have any motorcycle racing games.
Sweet to have a another good racing game on Switch.
@6ch6ris6 Check out TT Isle of Man, V-Ralley 4, Gear.Club Unlimited 2, or Asphault 9: Legends. There's also a number of Motocross games, but they've all been trash tier so far (Monster Energy Supercross or MXGP)
Definitely something full that Exitebike thrust.
Nothing will ever beat Moto Racer on the PS1 for me as far Motorbike racing games go.
Milestone seems to specialize in racing games. I've got Monster Energy 1 and 2. The first one was a little bare bones, the second had much more features, but did have some bugs. I enjoyed both, particularly the second one, but they did have their shortcomings. I also have Ride 2 on PS4. The Ride games look similar to MotoGP, except most races are out in the world, rather than official race tracks (but there are some of those too). It's an excellent game, so I'm assuming MotoGP is also since they are so similar. Considering their ports of Monster Energy games seem to get a little better with each iteration, I'd say this is probably a safe bet. It's just I've got so many motorcycle racing games at this point, I don't need any more.
One final word since someone mentioned TT: Isle of Man. From a technical standpoint, it's a well made game. But I find the level of difficulty to be IMPOSSIBLE!
@6ch6ris6 I've read reviews on all those games and saw they were described as "arcady" except one. TT definitely falls on the similation side. In fact, I'd say the controls are so realistic and prone to crashing for the smallest mistakes, it makes the game hard to enjoy.
Very good to see. Finally the Switch has decent racers. I might consider this. Despite having a motorbike in my younger years, I find bike racers too demanding and stressful and prefer 4 wheel racers. The best vehicle games I've found on the Switch are Grid Autosport and Spintyres. The latter shows it's worth when off-road.
@6ch6ris6 Like 4 months ago when GRID came out.
Definitely interested in grabbing this one. Last played MotoGp back on PS3 with '14 I think it was, so it's about time for a new one.
How does it look docked?
How are the controls? I mean, without an analogue trigger. Or does it support the GameCube controller?
Are there multiplayer modes, maybe Local Wireless?
@IronMan30 Is that a bill hicks avatar you got there? (totally unrelated)
@link3710 also GRID!
Wasn't really impressed with the performance and graphics of this version over 18 and 19. I got 18 back when it released and I've been sticking with that as they haven't really done much in the way of improvements.
Would be interested to know how it compares (additions, visuals etc.) to the prior 19 version. I only ask as this is just a code in a box for 'physical' which I refuse to support and the previous game is fairly cheap now. Updated teams and riders I'm not fussed about since, well, ya know, what's happening or not this year.
@BeautyandtheBeer You are probably better off just getting last years game. The graphics aren't really any better in 20 and I saw a gameplay video of this with a framerate counter and it was about 30 with a lot of dips down into the 20's.
Switch Racing Game of the Year!
@JayJ Ah okay thanks think I will do just that.
@TheFox I wanted to get TT: Isle of Man. I take in account your opinion. I’m not very good at realistic racing simulators, and I think I might drop the game for it’s difficulty level.
@Edu23XWiiU Had TT Isle of Man but the visuals were far too blurry/muddy. Hopefully the new TT Isle of Man next month is improved
@Edu23XWiiU It's honestly not a case where difficulty is a big issue, the AI racing is sort of an insignificant part of that game. When it comes to TT Isle of Man it's learning the massive Isle of Man course that presents the real challenge. It's sorta like learning Nurburging times 3. Once you start to get the track down you will get a lot better at it, but it's probably one of the best challenges to master as far as racing games go. I always just go for my best time whenever I play that game, and it's a ton of fun if you are into motorcycles and the event.
As ex Milestone developer it s really pleasant read this review and this comments ❤️
@birrafondaio
Ciao! Nice to hear from an ex developer and to have you here
"Hello, Moto"
I hope you have no claims from Motorola, XD,
Well, Although I am a fan of racing games, motorcycle 'simulation' games personally do not appeal to me, but the good thing is that it is a good addition to the catalog of racing games for the Switch! ^. ^
Ok, still waiting for Burnout Paradise, and if in the future, a Need For Speed (a decent NFS) and when Nintendo a Cruin's for the Switch?
Con:
No cartridge with the so-called physical edition
EDIT: I also noticed that it's US$49.99 on other consoles and US$39.99 for the cartridge-less version on Switch. Why the hell couldn't they charge US$49.99 and include a bloody cartridge?!
@MrBlacky Bigger.
Is there an online mode?
Was getting excited until I saw the real review in the comments.
No physical? Just **** off.
@gcunit It's for the greater good mate.
@link3710 I like racers like Sega Gt / Tokyo Extreme Racer (because of the rpg upgrade aspect) and Gear Unlimited. Which bike game would I like more, Isle or Gp?
Not usually into 2 wheel racing games but I will get this to pass the time, glad it's solid!
It’s on the list. I was hoping this would be a good entry. Can’t justify it right now though.
@khululy yes. Easily one of my favorite comedians.
@Dm9982 I haven't played GP yet so I can't really tell you. Enjoying TT though.
@link3710 ok thanks for the reply!
I like Sim Racers or Arcade, either way, I just prefer a progression system of stuff like engine upgrades, muffler, tires, brakes, etc. Where I can earn either points or money during races and sink that into improvements. Wasn’t sure if either TT or GP had those.
@Dm9982 Probably Monster Energy Supercross 2/3 if I am honest. That has the best upgrade aspect out of any motorcycle game on the Switch. MotoGP and TT Isle of Man are pretty much the same in that regard, both of those games don't really have any upgrading, you are just riding racing spec bikes the whole time, but MotoGP does have a whole team building RPG-esque aspect to it.
@JayJ Thanks man! I’ll look into those. I haven’t played a dirt bike racer since Excitebike 64
Meh it's no different from MotoGP 19 so rather just get that one instead. Also this game is one of those Switch title that came with a code in the case only without the actual game. Such a disappointment really.
I've got this game a big upgrade from last year's. The whole package feels great, still no online multiplayer though with that this game would be an easy 9/10.
@6ch6ris6 You should look into Grid. It's a lovely racing sim
@Tisteg80 I don't know if it supports GameCube controllers but you can use the right analogue stick for acceleration and front brake.
Also I wish reviewers of big sites played these games a bit more. The game is quite forgiving if you set the physics model to assisted, you can have a dynamic racing line helping you learn the tracks and when to brake. There's an auto set up, you just look for your problem (might have to Google a few phrases e.g. open trajectory) and it makes changes. Set ups are more down to personal preference this year than right or wrong. The most important part is the gearing that it doesn't help much with, you just want to set it for quite high acceleration. There's a mention of stock music, but for a sim-cade game who cares about menu music much? The bikes all sound different and great, every single manufacturer sounds different. In career mode you can start on Moto 3, Moto 2 or MotoGP for the first time but in each case you won't start with the best team and you have to really improve your bike through the season regardless of who you're with. You get the majority of research points to improve your bikes through development tests in free practice but can set engineers to slowly gain them instead, though you have limit engineers, improving your bike is slow progress but you feel the rewards of it and of the choice of chassis in the MotoGP class.
There are loads of improvements to the game from the bikes handling they don't understeer as much and are more reactive, better tyre temperature, the fuel management and engine settings, and especially the AI, it's now Neural AI 2.0 and they make mistakes, have to deal with tyre wear, slip and slide, crash, get dnfs.
The graphics are slightly better than 19 and way better than 18. 18 is crap in comparison and 19 rigid in gameplay and AI. The frame rate causes me no issues and smoother since the day 1 patch that came in the evening if day 1. It's also smoother in handheld.
Historic mode is not new just changed to have random challenges instead of fixed ones.
Separate brakes have been around in all MotoGP games since at least PS2 days.
Milestone made some amazing WRC games the last bring WRC 4 which I'd argue was better than KT Racings efforts until WRC 8 which is on Switch and awesome.
There's no online or split screen racing, only 16 bikes on track in effectively 10 rider championships with 6 wild cards each race but the racing it still close the top 5 are normally within 5 seconds. There are online leaderboards for time trials.
Oh and if anyone gets this game, there is sometimes a bug where lots of the riders will crash randomly at the start of a race in career mode, just restart the game, you won't lose any progress as it saves each session.
Hope that helps anyone
@YANDMAN
Oh, sorry for asking such a dumb question. 🙄
@sup3Rmint somehow this site doesn't own the technology needed to give accurate resolution and fps counts so they just say vague statements like it runs well or it looks nice.
@MrBlacky No worries, glad to help.
Just a heads up: the eShop listing for this game has screenshots that are not from the actual game running on Switch.
@Expa0 Same here. By the way. Moto Racer 4 is out on Switch. It doesn't feel the same at all, but im happy to see that the name still lives on.
@bleedinmagic81 i had it for pc. i think it is horrible. cars feel very weird. couldnt adjust the controls to a point where they felt good.
@ozwally a new one will get released? That sounds interesting
@JayJ that's rubbish. 20 is a vast improvement over 18 and 19. 18 is especially horrible.
@BeautyandtheBeer its way better in every way . I have over 20 hours so far and have so much to do.
@Haida they are from switch photo mode.
@JayJ man, you got me interested on the game, it sounds a lot better.
@bleedinmagic81 its really not a sim at all.
@JayJ the visuals are miles better than last year.
@m1tch80 Yeah apparently the footage I saw of 20 was pre-patch and docked. In handheld 20 looks a lot better than both 18 and 19, especially 18 which was disappointing in handheld mode. With the patch 20 is actually looking notably better I can admit, running smooth, so much so that I just bought it to replace 18.
@JayJ nice one. I love the game. A real good challenge to.
@m1tch80 Yeah I just need to have good racing sims, it's gotta be my favorite genre overall. A console just doesn't feel complete without a variety of them, and this is probably the most serious one.
@JayJ agreed
@Edu23XWiiU yeah TT Isle of Man 2 is out in 2 weeks time
@ozwally looking forward to that
@ozwally I saw the trailer yesterday on my Switch, thank you. Looks impressive. I might get it as my birthday present!
@Edu23XWiiU @m1tch80 be sure to check the reviews first. The first game I really enjoyed gameplay wise however the visuals were very blurry/low resolution, hopefully they can improve this second time round
@ozwally the visuals on the trailer were really good. Let’s hope they’re from the Switch version.
@Edu23XWiiU hopefully so. Even if there is only a slight improvement it will be ok, as the gameplay was really good in last years, gave a real good feel for the speed you were travelling
@ozwally the graphics are better this year. Looks good
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