Avinash Rohra When a game boldly declares, “falling is part of the challenge,” you know you’re in for a wild ride. Driving Is Hard (formerly known as A Difficult Game About Driving) is exactly that—a physics-based driving game that masquerades as a therapy session, a rage-inducing obstacle course, and a heartfelt narrative about self-discovery. It’s a game that dares you to keep going, even when every fiber of your being screams, “Why am I doing this to myself?”
But is it worth the frustration? Is it a clever twist on the Getting Over It formula, or just a bathtub on wheels rolling downhill into controversy? Let’s buckle up and find out.
What Is Driving Is Hard About? A Bathtub, a Bald Man, and a Whole Lot of Chaos
At its core, Driving Is Hard is a physics-based driving game where you control Jeff, a bald man sitting in a bathtub-turned-vehicle, as he attempts to navigate treacherous terrain. The goal is simple: drive upward. The execution, however, is anything but.
The game’s seven distinct biomes—ranging from gnarled tree branches to floating rocks and race tracks—are filled with obstacles that demand precision, patience, and a willingness to fail repeatedly. Think of it as Getting Over It with Bennett Foddy meets Speed Freeks, with a dash of existential dread.
The bathtub mechanic is as absurd as it sounds, but it’s also strangely compelling. The oversized wheels and wobbly physics make every movement feel precarious, and the constant threat of falling back to the start looms over every decision. It’s a game that thrives on tension, rewarding perseverance while punishing even the slightest misstep.
Story: A Journey of Self-Discovery, One Fall at a Time
Beneath its chaotic exterior, Driving Is Hard attempts to tell a heartfelt story about Jeff’s struggles with self-doubt, familial expectations, and the quest for self-acceptance. Each biome represents a stage of Jeff’s emotional growth, with environmental storytelling and voiceovers providing glimpses into his psyche.
It’s a touching concept, but the execution is uneven. The narrative often takes a backseat to the gameplay, leaving players too frustrated to fully appreciate Jeff’s journey. That said, the moments of introspection—like when Jeff reflects on his relationship with his father—are genuinely poignant. It’s just a shame they’re buried under layers of rage-inducing gameplay.
The game’s humor also shines through, with witty dialogue and absurd scenarios (like launching your bathtub into a hole that’s definitely not a shortcut) adding levity to the experience. It’s a delicate balance, and while the story doesn’t always stick the landing, it’s a commendable effort.
Gameplay: Tight Controls, Treacherous Terrain, and the Joy of Failure
Let’s get one thing straight: Driving Is Hard is not for the faint of heart. The controls are simple—WASD for movement, spacebar to jump—but mastering them is a Herculean task. Every input matters, and even the slightest overcorrection can send you tumbling back to the start.
The level design is both a strength and a weakness. On one hand, the biomes are beautifully crafted, with each introducing new mechanics and challenges to keep things fresh. On the other hand, some sections feel unnecessarily punishing, with narrow paths and unforgiving physics testing even the most patient players.
That said, the game’s multiple routes and hidden collectibles (21 soaps, because why not?) encourage exploration and experimentation. It’s not just about reaching the top; it’s about finding your own path and learning from your mistakes. And when you finally conquer a difficult section, the sense of accomplishment is unparalleled.
Comparisons to Getting Over It are inevitable, but Driving Is Hard distinguishes itself with more forgiving setbacks and a greater emphasis on exploration. It’s still a punishing experience, but one that feels more accessible—and arguably more rewarding—than its predecessor.
Who Is It For? A Niche Game for a Niche Audience
Driving Is Hard is not for everyone. It’s a game that demands patience, perseverance, and a willingness to fail repeatedly. If you’re a fan of punishingly difficult games like Getting Over It or Celeste, this is right up your alley.
Casual players, however, may find the constant setbacks too frustrating to enjoy. The game’s humor and emotional depth might appeal to a broader audience, but the steep learning curve makes it a tough sell for anyone looking for a relaxing experience.
That said, the game’s accessibility options (like the parachute mechanic) and forgiving checkpoints make it more approachable than its predecessors. It’s still a challenging experience, but one that feels more inclusive—and ultimately more rewarding—than other games in the genre.
Final Verdict: A Flawed but Fascinating Experiment
Driving Is Hard is a game that wears its heart—and its frustrations—on its sleeve. It’s a chaotic, cathartic, and occasionally controversial experience that pushes players to their limits, both mechanically and emotionally.
While the game’s uneven storytelling and steep difficulty curve may deter some players, its engaging gameplay, beautiful world design, and heartfelt narrative make it a journey worth taking. It’s not perfect, but it’s a bold and ambitious experiment that deserves recognition—and perhaps a little forgiveness.
So, is Driving Is Hard worth your time? If you’re willing to embrace the chaos, the answer is a resounding yes. Just be prepared to fail, fall, and fail again. After all, as the game reminds us, falling is part of the challenge.
[This review is based on a press build of the game provided by the publisher. The Game has been reviewed on PC Platform]
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