Project CARS 2 stands out in the sim racing world for its dedication to realism, offering an immersive experience for both console and PC gamers. A key element contributing to this realism is the use of laser-scanned tracks. But Which Tracks Are Laser Scanned In Project Cars 2? This comprehensive guide will detail all the laser-scanned locations in the game, explain why laser scanning is crucial for sim racing, and explore the vast track list that makes Project CARS 2 a favorite among racing enthusiasts.
The Importance of Laser Scanned Tracks in Sim Racing
For sim racers, the pursuit of realism is paramount. Laser scanning technology plays a vital role in achieving this, offering unparalleled accuracy in recreating real-world race tracks within a virtual environment. Unlike older, hand-crafted methods, laser scanning uses drones and specialized equipment to capture millions of data points across a track surface. This data is then used to build a highly detailed and precise 3D model of the circuit, including every bump, kerb, and elevation change.
This meticulous approach translates directly into a more authentic and challenging sim racing experience. Laser-scanned tracks provide:
- Unmatched Accuracy: Every nuance of the real track is replicated, from subtle camber changes to significant bumps, offering a true-to-life driving feel.
- Enhanced Immersion: Racing on a laser-scanned track heightens immersion, making players feel like they are genuinely driving on the actual circuit.
- Realistic Car Behavior: The precise track surface data allows for more accurate car physics simulation, meaning cars react as they would in the real world to the track’s imperfections and features.
- Improved Training Tool: For aspiring racers or track day enthusiasts, laser-scanned tracks offer an invaluable training tool to learn circuits and improve driving skills in a virtual setting before hitting the real tarmac.
Project CARS 2: Leading the Way in Track Realism
Project CARS 2 significantly improved upon its predecessor by expanding the number of laser-scanned tracks from just four to twenty. This commitment to accuracy solidified its position as a leading sim racing title, especially for console gamers seeking a realistic experience. While Project CARS 3 shifted towards a more arcade-style approach, it’s Project CARS 2 that continues to be celebrated for its simulation depth and extensive, realistic track selection.
Which Tracks in Project CARS 2 are Laser Scanned?
Project CARS 2 boasts 20 meticulously laser-scanned tracks, ensuring a high level of realism and detail. Here is a complete list, categorized by region for easy navigation:
Europe
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Autódromo Internacional do Algarve (Portimão), Portugal: Known for its dramatic elevation changes and challenging corners, Portimão is a favorite among drivers and a stunning addition to Project CARS 2.
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Brands Hatch, UK (3 layouts): A historic British circuit offering GP and Indy layouts, as well as a 1982-1994 Historic Rallycross layout (Fun Pack DLC). Brands Hatch is a classic, tight, and technical track, perfectly captured with laser scanning.
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Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya Rallycross, Spain: Beyond the traditional circuit, Project CARS 2 includes the rallycross variant of Barcelona, bringing dirt and jump action with laser-scanned precision.
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Cadwell Park, UK (3 layouts): Often nicknamed the “mini-Nürburgring,” Cadwell Park is a thrilling, narrow, and undulating circuit with Full (GP), Club, and Woodland layouts, all laser scanned.
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Hockenheimring Rallycross, Germany: Adding to the rallycross roster, Hockenheimring Rallycross is laser scanned, providing authentic dirt and jump experiences.
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Knockhill Racing Circuit, UK (5 layouts): Scotland’s national motorsport center, Knockhill, is laser scanned and features International, National, and Tri-Oval layouts, as well as reverse variants.
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Knockhill Rallycross, UK: Completing the Knockhill experience, the rallycross layout is also laser scanned for realistic off-road racing.
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Lånkebanen Rallycross (Hell), Norway: A legendary rallycross venue, Lånkebanen (Hell) in Norway, is laser scanned, offering players a taste of Nordic rallycross action.
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Mercedes-Benz Winter Driving Events Ice Track, Germany (6 layouts): For unique winter driving challenges, the Mercedes-Benz Ice Track provides multiple laser-scanned ice layouts, pushing driving skills to the limit in icy conditions.
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Nürburgring, Germany (9 layouts): The iconic “Green Hell,” Nürburgring Nordschleife, and its various combined and shorter layouts are laser scanned, delivering the ultimate test of driver and machine.
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Oulton Park, UK (3 layouts): Another classic British circuit, Oulton Park, with its International, Island, and Fosters layouts, is laser scanned for a highly accurate representation.
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Red Bull Ring, Austria (3 layouts): A modern classic, the Red Bull Ring, with its GP, National, and Club layouts, is laser scanned, offering high-speed action and stunning Austrian scenery.
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Snetterton Circuit, UK (3 layouts): A fast and flowing British circuit, Snetterton, in its 300 (GP), 200, and 100 configurations, is laser scanned, providing a smooth yet challenging driving experience.
North America
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Circuit of the Americas (COTA), USA (3 layouts): A modern Formula 1 track in Austin, Texas, COTA, with its GP, National, and Club layouts, is laser scanned, bringing American F1 action to the game.
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Daytona International Speedway, USA (2 layouts): An American motorsport icon, Daytona, with its Tri-Oval and Road Course layouts, is laser scanned, capturing the essence of NASCAR and sports car racing.
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DirtFish, USA (3 layouts): For off-road enthusiasts, DirtFish rally school’s Pro Rallycross, Mill Run, and Boneyard courses are laser scanned, offering authentic rally driving experiences.
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Indianapolis Motor Speedway, USA (2 layouts): Another American legend, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, with its Oval and Road Course, is laser scanned, bringing the Indy 500 and road racing heritage to life.
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Texas Motor Speedway, USA (3 layouts): Rounding out the North American laser-scanned tracks, Texas Motor Speedway, with its Oval, Road Course, and Infield Course, provides diverse racing configurations.
Asia & Oceania
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Fuji Speedway, Japan: A historic Japanese circuit at the foot of Mount Fuji, Fuji Speedway is laser scanned, offering a blend of high-speed sections and technical corners.
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Sportsland Sugo, Japan: A favorite among drifting enthusiasts and featured in Formula Drift Japan, Sportsland Sugo is laser scanned, making it a must-try for drift fans in Project CARS 2.
Alt: A Ferrari GT3 488 reflecting on a wet Project CARS 2 track surface, demonstrating the game’s realistic weather effects and track detail.
Beyond Laser Scanning: The Complete Track List
While laser-scanned tracks are a highlight, Project CARS 2 features a total of 60 locations with over 140 layouts, including fictional and hand-crafted circuits. This extensive list spans various motorsport disciplines, from circuit racing and rallycross to karting and ice racing.
The game includes iconic tracks like Spa-Francorchamps, Monza, and Mount Panorama Circuit (Bathurst), alongside fictional gems like California Highway and Mojave Desert. This blend of real and imaginative tracks ensures there’s always a new challenge to explore in Project CARS 2.
Conclusion: Project CARS 2 – The King of Tracks for Sim Racing
For sim racers prioritizing track variety and realism, Project CARS 2 remains a top choice. Its impressive selection of 20 laser-scanned tracks, combined with a vast array of other circuits, offers an unparalleled racing experience on consoles and PC. While newer titles have emerged, Project CARS 2’s dedication to track accuracy and breadth of content continues to resonate with sim racing fans. Whether you’re looking to master the Nürburgring Nordschleife or drift around Sportsland Sugo, Project CARS 2 provides the tracks and the realism to fuel your racing passion.
If you’re seeking the most comprehensive and realistic track list in a console sim racing game, look no further than Project CARS 2. Dive in and experience the difference that laser-scanned precision makes.
Alt: A classic Porsche 961 racing on the Red Bull Ring in Project CARS 2, showcasing the game’s vehicle variety and the laser-scanned Austrian circuit.
