Summary
If you’re a fan of punishingly difficult games, “Driving Is Hard” might be worth a try, be it a challenging but flawed experience overshadowed by controversy. Just be prepared for a steep learning curve and the possibility that the game could be taken down at any moment. For everyone else, it’s probably best to wait and see how the situation unfolds. In the meantime, maybe give “Getting Over It with Bennett Foddy” a play—it’s the original and, arguably, the better version of this concept.
Developer – Elegant Horse Studios
Publisher – Elegant Horse Studios
Platforms – PC (Reviewed)
Review copy given by Distributor/Press Agency
“Driving Is Hard,” formerly known as “A Difficult Game About Driving,” is a physics-based driving game that challenges players to navigate a bathtub on wheels through treacherous terrain. The game promises a mix of punishing gameplay and an emotional narrative, but its journey to release has been anything but smooth. From a last-minute name change to allegations of stolen assets, “Driving Is Hard” is a game that’s as controversial as it is challenging. Let’s dive into the details.
One of the first things that stands out about “Driving Is Hard” is its peculiar last-minute name change. Originally titled “A Difficult Game About Driving,” the developers opted to rename it just before release. While the new title is more straightforward, it lacks the quirky charm of the original. So, why the change? After some digging, it seems the decision was likely made to avoid confusion with other similarly named games and to make the title more searchable. However, the abrupt switch feels jarring and raises questions about the developers’ confidence in their branding. It’s almost as if they were second-guessing themselves, much like the protagonist, Jeff, grapples with self-doubt throughout the game.
At its core, “Driving Is Hard” is a game about perseverance. Players control Jeff, a man navigating his life—and a bathtub on wheels—through seven distinct worlds filled with steep inclines, slippery surfaces, and frustratingly precise physics. The controls are simple, but mastering them is anything but. Every mistake can send you tumbling back down, forcing you to retrace your steps and test your patience. This mechanic is reminiscent of games like “Getting Over It with Bennett Foddy,” and while it can be satisfying to finally conquer a difficult section, it’s also incredibly frustrating.

The game’s difficulty is its defining feature, but it’s also its biggest barrier. While some players will relish the challenge, others may find the constant setbacks too punishing. The warning at the start of the game—”falling is part of the challenge”—isn’t kidding. If you’re not prepared to fail repeatedly, this might not be the game for you.
Beyond the gameplay, “Driving Is Hard” attempts to tell a heartfelt story about Jeff’s journey of self-discovery. As players progress, they uncover Jeff’s struggles with his father’s expectations, his own self-doubt, and his quest for self-acceptance. The narrative is woven into the gameplay, with each world representing a different stage of Jeff’s emotional growth. It’s a touching concept, but the execution feels uneven. The story is often overshadowed by the sheer difficulty of the gameplay, making it hard to fully appreciate Jeff’s journey.

To add some variety, the game includes a few customization options. Players can unlock different skins for their bathtub, which adds a bit of personal flair to the experience. There are also 21 collectible soaps hidden throughout the levels, offering a small incentive to explore. While these features are a nice touch, they don’t significantly enhance the overall experience.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the allegations of stolen assets. It’s hard to ignore the similarities between “Driving Is Hard” and “Getting Over It with Bennett Foddy.” From the physics-based gameplay to the bathtub mechanic, the influence is undeniable. However, some players have pointed out that certain assets appear to be directly lifted from Foddy’s game. This has led to accusations of plagiarism and raised concerns about potential copyright claims.

Given the recent takedown of “Only Up!” due to similar issues, it wouldn’t be surprising if “Driving Is Hard” faces the same fate. The gaming community has little tolerance for stolen assets, and the developers’ lack of transparency on this matter only fuels the controversy.
Despite these issues, there’s potential here. The core gameplay is decent, and the story, while underdeveloped, has its moments. If the developers can address the controversy and refine the experience, “Driving Is Hard” could still find its audience. But as it stands, the game is a bumpy ride—both literally and figuratively.

If you’re a fan of punishingly difficult games, “Driving Is Hard” might be worth a try, be it a challenging but flawed experience overshadowed by controversy. Just be prepared for a steep learning curve and the possibility that the game could be taken down at any moment. For everyone else, it’s probably best to wait and see how the situation unfolds. In the meantime, maybe give “Getting Over It with Bennett Foddy” a play—it’s the original and, arguably, the better version of this concept.