Introduction
SBK™22 is a motorcycle racing game developed and published by Milestone S.r.l. It released on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and Steam in September 2022.
Review
Any fan of the Motorcycle Racing genre knows that not since 2012 have we had a game dedicated to the World SBK Championship. SBK Generations was a gem of a game that offered so much to anyone that purchased it.
What have Milestone done differently to the title to ensure that it lasts the test this time? Let’s dig in a bit more.
The initial similarities between this and its World SBK 22 and the recent release of its ‘big daddy’ MotoGP 22 are clearly there to see. This is not surprising as both Championships are run by Dorna, with both games developed by Milestone. This does not take away from the game itself however, as it has its own little pieces that are unique to itself.
Using the same format as the MotoGP version (you can read our review of this one here), the game starts out Career Mode introducing you to the bikes, and what is needed to succeed. Carrying out the initial testing session you get a feel of what each setting has to offer, before being thrown into the action.
The World SBK Championship is different to what us racers are normally used too, you compete over 12 weekends with qualifying sessions, superpole, and a couple of races. This allows you to get a decent feel to each track before moving onto the next. It does however bring a slight repetition into the game that is not apparent in the other genre versions.
The variety of the tracks is great to have. World SBK travels to tracks that are less mainstream, and therefore a little more quirky. Where else can you compete on tracks like Mandalika & Autodrom Most!? These tracks offer something special, with the graphical power that Milestone have come accustomed too within their game clearly visible to see. Their hard work and dedication to get the finest details into their games shows up time and again.
Multiplayer is also available, although not very popular already, but it is great to have the option to play with your friends if you’re passionate enough to participate in it. You also have features like online time trial Leaderboards, and single race Grand Prix; enough to keep you occupied!
The controlling options were my biggest bug bare with this game. It was great to have the standard “Tyre & Fuel Wear” options, however I would have liked to have seen the ability to play with the settings for the brakes. Just like a real racing bike the brakes only work in the game when they are hot. Getting the brakes up too a decent temperature, and keeping them there would be the hardest part of the game for any beginner trying it out.
Trophy wise it’s a fairly straightforward platinum/competition, with the standard achievements for winning races, championships, developing the bike etc. and you’re looking at a decent length of completion (around 20-30 hours) before it gets too boring.
Check out our trophy guide, if you’re considering going for that platinum.
Rating
Pros:
- Variety of gameplay formats
- Captures attention to details
- Mirrors the real life championship well
Cons:
- Can get a bit repetitive
- Achievements/Trophies needed more thought
- Needed an easier option for bike handling
Summary
Overall this is a lovely little game. And despite it seeming almost like a MotoGP Lite game, it is standalone enough to warrant its own recognition. The gameplay is fast, and there is enough within the game to keep you occupied.
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Game & Developer Information
Developer/Publisher Website: Milestone S.r.l.
Developer/Publisher Socials: Twitter
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