Copa Petrobras de Marcas

There are many racing competitions around the world, and not all of them are as popular as Formula 1 or DTM. Hence, almost every country has its own racing event, as well as a few tracks that pose unique challenges. In case you are tired of Nurburgring, Monza or similar tracks that are present in almost every racing game, then you might want to try something different for a change.

Copa Petrobras de Marcas is a racing simulator that allows you to compete in the Petrobras competition, which is a Brazilian event for 300BHP FWD cars. In essence, the game is more or less an rFactor clone, given the fact that appears to be using the same physics engine, but there are plenty of differences in store for you as well if you take the time to observe them.

The major disappointment for most fans might be the fact that there are only four cars to choose from, since that’s how the official competition is like as well. These cars require an extensive adjustment period, on the other hand, especially if you like to race without any driving aids on. Speaking of which, you are free to customize the amount of help you receive from the game and the car’s electronic systems.

No simulator would be worth the bother if it didn’t support all the popular racing wheels, so Copa Petrobras de Marcas is no different. You can connect and use a variety of wheels, as well as customize them to feel as close to the real thing as possible. However, the game is playable even with a keyboard, although you really have to let go of the idea that you have complete control over the car.

As for the graphics, they are more or less comparable to those from rFactor, which is not much of a compliment. While it’s no Forza Motorsport, they are not ugly either, and you can easily get accustomed to the lack of environmental detail and the flat material surfaces. Thankfully, at least the sound effects are pretty nice, and so are the damage effects.

All things considered, Copa Petrobras de Marcas is actually not a bad game, but it lacks the complexity of other simulators out there. Granted, this one is free of charge, so it certainly deserves a chance if you are tired of the same tracks and cars over and over again.