DriveClub Launch Off To A Shaky Start With Delays And Server Issues

After suffering through multiple launch delays, PS Plus subscribers are again waiting to get the chance to finally play DriveClub online. The free version offered on PS Plus was due to launch in North America on October 7th and in Europe on October 8th. However, the DriveClub team decided the servers would be overloaded and incapable of handling a smooth launch, so they delayed the free version and app.

Players who purchased the upgrade package to the full version of the game can still play DriveClub, but may not be able to connect online with other players.

Understandably, loads of gamers are upset after shelling out their money to play in a worldwide multiplayer racer. The game’s mantra is ‘Drive Together, Win Together,’ but right now many players are limited to racing in single player mode. Game director Paul Rustchynsky offered apologies and an explanation for the problems with connectivity on DriveClub’s official Facebook page. He assured players that the game will automatically keep trying to connect them to the servers, and eventually they will be able to get online.

Due to the problems on the servers and to lighten the load, the PS Plus version and the My DriveClub app have been delayed. The move is expected to hurt initial sales, as many PS Plus players would have used the free version to make a purchase decision on the full version.

The huge 445MB MyDriveClub app that was once available in the iOS and Android app stores has been pulled until further notice. This will likely be the last issue with a resolution, while the team focuses its efforts more heavily on pleasing the PS Plus subscribers. The app was a selling point of the DriveClub game, allowing players to watch live video of their mates racing, track team progress and view challenges.

While we have faith that the game will live up to its expectations once it is fully available, we can’t help but to point out that the live action of playing with friends was the whole foundation of the game. The full version download and retail launches are still on schedule this week. We want to hear about your experience with the game. How do you think the studio is handling these issues?