After months of silence, Kunos Simulazioni has made an open and frank address to fans, admitting that the launch of Assetto Corsa EVO in Early Access did not live up to expectations. In their video message, the developers admitted their mistakes. This approach immediately made it clear - the developers realize the mistakes and are ready to correct them.

The launch of the game on January 16, 2025 was accompanied by considerable interest. Despite the technical rough edges, EVO became the most successful launch in the history of the series. However, amidst the overall success, obvious problems were glaring: the lack of a full offline mode, an unintuitive interface, difficulty accessing certain features, bugs and instability in the early days.

Players expressed their disappointment - and they were heard. In recent weeks, the developers have analyzed the situation in depth, made important architectural decisions and presented a plan to rethink key components of the game.

What's changing in Assetto Corsa EVO: a detailed overview of innovations

The Kunos Simulazioni team didn't just admit mistakes - they started a deep reconstruction of internal systems. Here are the main areas of change being worked on:

 Full offline mode

• From now on, the game will no longer require a mandatory internet connection. Players will be able to launch EVO and enjoy racing in classic mode - just like in the first two installments of the series.

   Two main modes: Open and Career

• Open Mode is for free races, quick play and customization, Career Mode is for those who want to go through a full career with progression, economy and Driving Academy. Both modes will be available offline.

   New Interface and Custom Race Weekend Settings

• An improved UI design will make menu navigation easier and faster. A Custom Race Weekend feature will appear with flexible race customization, lineup and rules.

   Optimization for VR and multi-monitor configurations

• The team is engaged in deep performance tuning on all platforms: graphical optimizations, FPS stability, correct work with VR and systems with three screens.

   New AI system

• Enemies will no longer be faceless dummies. Each virtual opponent will have a character: some will be aggressive, some will be cautious. This will create a varied and unpredictable racing experience.

   Multiplayer with new network code

• The development of the multiplayer mode is in full swing. A second phase of early access is expected as early as summer 2025, including the first public version of the online game.

   Modding support - ahead of schedule

• Modding tools were originally planned for release after version 1.0, but will now be available as part of Early Access. This will allow enthusiasts to test the tools and prepare content in advance.

   Accelerated content release

• Some car models originally planned for release closer to the final release will be added earlier. In particular, cars that haven't been in the series since 2017 are returning to the game.

   The return of Stefano Casillo

• One of the founders of Kunos and the "father" of the original Assetto Corsa has returned to the team in the role of technical director of the project. His involvement is a sign that EVO aims to return to its roots and the quality for which fans have come to love it.

New fleet and tracks: variety for all tastes

The fresh video also reveals nine new vehicles and three tracks, each of which will be introduced with alternate configurations. This is a prime example of the developers' commitment to variety and attention to detail:

New Cars:

• Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GT
• Alfa Romeo 75 Turbo Evoluzione
• Caterham Academy
• Ferrari F2004
• Honda NSX-R
• Lotus Exige V6 Cup
• Maserati MC20 GT2
• McMurtry Spéirling
• Porsche 911 Turbo 3.6 (964)

New tracks:

• Circuit of the Americas (COTA)
• Donington Park
• Red Bull Ring

Each of the tracks will have additional marking options, as is common in modern car simulators.

A new custom race grid system was also demonstrated, allowing even more flexibility in customizing races, while interface improvements will visually refresh the game.

Assetto Corsa EVO is at an important moment in its history. The developers didn't gloss over problems or ignore feedback. Instead, they chose the path of transparency and open dialog.

New decisions - from offline mode to the return of Stefano Casillo - speak to the studio's desire to keep the spirit of the original Assetto Corsa while reaching a new level of quality.

The game is already available in Early Access on Steam for €39.99 | $39.99 | £32.99, and judging by the plans, there's plenty more to come.