Hype is ramping up around the Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown release date. The franchise returns after more than a decade away, and one of the original open-world racers could once again define the genre.
After multiple delays and pushes, TDU Solar Crown is still shrouded in mystery. However, more details are trickling out from KT Racing HQ as they are keen to show off the parts of the game that are nearly ready to go.
So, we're here to give you the lowdown on what we know so far about TDU Solar Crown's release date!
Latest news - Beta test coming soon?
The third Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown newsletter has landed, this time revealing the new Solar Crown central hub.
This will replace buyable houses, a staple of the first two TDU games, but Kyltoonn confirmed this popular feature may return after launch.
click to enlargeWhile we still don't know the release date, the newsletter says “reservations and the first tours will open soon” - this could suggest the planned beta test is starting soon.
We'll likely find out the release date at the next Nacon Connect event. Going by past events, Nacon Connect 2023 will take place in early or mid July.
Hong Kong Island deep dive
From narrow town streets to wide open highways where you can maximise speed to winding off-road mountain trails, Hong Kong is set to be a brilliant location to explore.
In a recent newsletter update, KT Racing shared visual updates on the map we will all be racing around soon. Hong Kong Island's 370 square-mile landscape is being recreated at 1:1 scale, but it won't be an exact replica.
click to enlarge“To emphasise the fast and smooth driving, for example, the very dense urban network of HKI needed some small adjustments because of certain little streets that were very (too?) narrow,” creative director Alain Jarniou explained.
“Conversely, some light redesign was done to the major thoroughfares to make them more fun and adapted to very fast cars, while respecting the identity of Hong Kong Island.”
Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown release date
The release date for the Test Drive Unlimited game is still unknown. It was originally slated for release on 22 September 2022, but was then delayed until 2023. A specific release date is yet to be confirmed.
click to enlargeWe're not too mad about this delay, as we've seen the trailers, and we're incredibly excited to see what happens when the game does release.
Games tend to look for a 3-4 month build before release, so players shouldn't expect to be racing around Hong Kong until September 2023 at the very earliest.
Dealerships and car customisation detailed
We still don't know the release date, but TDUSC finally feels like it's getting closer.
click to enlargeIn the first in a series of monthly newsletters, KT Racing has lifted the bonnet on TDUSC, revealing new screenshots and info about dealerships and car customisation.
Together We Drive trailer
Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown made an appearance at Nacon Connect with the new "Together We Drive" trailer. While the latest trailer showcased TDUSC's 1:1 scale recreation of Hong Kong in-game for the first time, not much gameplay was shown.