For cycling fans, this whole package is probably the ultimate dream of combining everything that is great about the sport into one extensive management sim. The level of detail in rider stats; the amount of control over races; the strategic plays during the heat of action. All of these things mean for fans it is absolutely a must own. That said, niche genres always have to be balanced to also allow for the introduction of complete outsiders to the field. For such people, the experience is still an overwhelming one, even with the addition of a rigorous tutorial. There is still a whole heap of gameplay mechanics that could do with just a bit more explanation. With all that said, the Pro Cyclist mode which streamlines many of the most complicated mechanics into a more traditional role-playing mode, helps in that regard significantly, and therefore pulls the overall experience for newbies up.

Quotation forthcoming.

It's a rather engaging experience overall, although undoubtedly a little dry. The big question for Pro Cycling Manager 2020 is whether it's going to open up to people who aren't cycling enthusiasts, but it's unlikely that the game will have that kind of broad appeal. Those who are fair weather cycling fans may struggle, but someone with a decent enough knowledge of pro cycling should be able to get on board without trouble.

Before buying Pro Cycling Manager 2020 just consider if the absence of significant new features could be a problem for you.

At the end of the day, it’s true that PCM 2020 delivers the series’ most realistic version of either managing or being a professional cyclist, but issues of technical quality and system design mean that it’s far from the experience it could be.