Motorcycle Simulator 2021 is good but only for patient simulation aficionados
For fans of simulation games who can’t get enough wrench-turning and engine-tuning, Motorcycle Mechanic Simulator 2021 is a perfect fit. As someone who enjoys these types of simulators a little too much, I found myself having to pry myself away from the virtual garage more than once.
For those unfamiliar with the genre, MMS 2021 provides a slow-paced, detailed experience of operating an authentic motorcycle repair shop. It simulates the process of evaluating bikes, determining necessary repairs, sourcing replacement parts, and performing maintenance and customization. Every task, from oil changes to full engine overhauls, feels rewarding in its realism.
Diehard sim fans will appreciate the depth of options. Diagnosing issues requires methodically inspecting each component, while repairs involve precisely following step-by-step tutorials. Upgrades are similarly intricate, with choices shaping a bike's performance and appearance. Managing the business side, like budgets, upgrading the shop, and customers, adds extra strategic layers.
You will need some time to understand not only how to actually play the game like remove parts, assemble other parts, shop for new parts etc. but also the controls as they might feel tedious at first since you are supposed to do "precise" things via analog sticks.
If you are a newcomer, you may find the slow pace tedious and controls unwieldy. This is definitely not an action ride for all casual fans. Guidance is also minimal, making thorough learning a challenge. The more you play however, the better you'll become, but you need to spend quite some time just to get over that initial learning curve.
Bikes are replicated down to individual parts, and the shop environment looks OK-ish. The texture quality could use some love as some details look absolutely horrendous when you truly focus on them, but some level of jank is always to be expected and I guess it's part of the charm when it comes to these types of "simulation" games.
For those seeking real virtual escapism as a master mechanic, Motorcycle Simulator 2021 might scratch that itch. But its hyper-authenticity means an acquired taste is needed to fully enjoy the experience. This remains niche tourism for patient simulation aficionados alone. Thanks for reading!
The game was reviewed on a Series X using a promo code provided by PR. Motorcycle Mechanic 2021 is out now on Switch, PC and Xbox.
