This is the sort of problem that a real world directeur sportif (some sort of a cycling coach but with more control over his riders actions) would face when dealing with a squad that is as talented and as ripe for conflict as Radioshack Nissan Trek.

+ Simulation mechanics; + Computer controlled riders; + Realism

- New Armada multiplayer; - Some graphics glitches; - Problems with sponsors

There is something so wonderful about getting on a bicycle and riding across the country side. The thought of getting to play a Tour de France game got into my blood. So I was dismayed a few months back when the console version of Pro Cycling Manager 2012 was not coming to the United States.

So here's the thing; I have a lifelong obsession with management simulations, culminating in an uninhibited crack-like addiction to the Football Manager series. I'm perfectly at home with never-ending swathes of menus, stats and obtuse performance planning to gain that extra 4% in performance from...

Like many management sims, Pro Cycling Manager 2012 is not for those unaware or not knowledgeable about the sport. For example, my first race was a "sprint", and my leading cyclist was not a sprinter, but a "puncheur" (specialist in short, steep climbs).

Often in our gaming lives we manage to finish or beat a game, but there are a few occasions where the game beats you. For me, this is true of Pro Cycling Manager 2012… for now.

More difficult than learning to ride a bike.

Deep customization

Very niche target audience; no playable tutorial; not accessible to the average gamer

Kid Factor: Not a lot of worries here for inappropriate content, however I would venture it isn't quite a suitable game for any kid other than a very biking-crazy teenager. There is plenty of text to be read, but the main issue would revolve around the depth and complexity of the simulation.

Download took a very long time, but that is to be expected from such a large file. Quality was great. The only thing that the game does not give you right off the bat (as far as I could tell) is a player code that you HAVE to have to play the game.

I think if you want to race it is the best cycling game you can find. If you like play as manager I think it is better you play a game as www.cyclingforfun.org that allow you play online controlling a cycling team. Pro Cycling Manager IA is better every year, terrains and graphics too.

Bought for my son. I am now playing as well and finding it addictive. Some flaws with place names not matching where stage races are held, French name on chinese stage.