The racing simulator community is eagerly awaiting the release of Assetto Corsa Evo, the long-awaited continuation of the famous racing series. With just one day left until the game enters early access, let’s explore what to expect from it.

At the moment, it is unknown when the official version 1.0 will be released, but there is already a lot of information about the early version. The price of the game is still unknown, so we’ll have to wait for the release.

About the game

Assetto Corsa has long gained recognition in the racing genre and still confidently holds high positions in the rankings of the best racing simulators. The first part of the game was released back in 2014, developed by the Italian company KUNOS-Simulazioni, founded in 2005. The list of games developed by the company includes only two titles: Assetto Corsa and Assetto Corsa Competizione. Thanks to the first game in the series, they gained their fame. The second installment was not as popular, but it still managed to take an honorable place among racing simulators. And now the eagerly awaited third part of the series, called Assetto Corsa Evo, is approaching.

Since the release of the first part, a lot of work has been done, and the sequel is expected to bring major changes. For example, new cars and tracks, completely redesigned graphics, and many gameplay innovations (read below). It is worth noting that advanced laser scanning technology was used to create the tracks. This ensures that the tracks almost perfectly replicate real racing sections.

The game will also feature many licensed car brands, including both long-familiar models and newcomers that have not previously appeared in earlier parts of this game series.

It is also worth noting that unlike the first Assetto Corsa, Evo is built on a proprietary game engine. While the first part was based on the well-known Unreal Engine, the proprietary engine opens up vast possibilities for implementing interesting scenarios and gameplay mechanics. Judging by the trailers that have already been shown, the changes are very significant!

On which platforms will the game be available?

The game will traditionally be released on PC, as well as on Xbox Series and PS5. PC users can already add it to their wishlist on Steam.

Requirements

The official system requirements for the game have also been published on the Steam store. To feel like a real racer, you’ll need at least 16 GB of RAM, an Intel i7 8700k or AMD 1500X processor, and a GTX 1070 or RX 580 graphics card. These configurations will allow you to run the game at minimum graphics settings. For a truly immersive racing experience, more powerful hardware will be required, such as an Intel i5 10500 or AMD 2600X processor and an RTX 2070 or Radeon RX 5600 graphics card. You should also be prepared to free up approximately 100 GB of space on your SSD for AC Evo.

Supported operating systems: only 64-bit Windows 10 or Windows 11.

For more detailed game specifications, refer to this article: Assetto Corsa EVO Release Date!

Unique Features and Game Modes in Assetto Corsa Evo

Even in early access, racing enthusiasts will be able to enjoy many game modes and experience the unique capabilities of the new Kunos Engine.

The game will support VR. Additionally, there will be 20 cars and 5 tracks (with more to come in the full version of the game). To feel the adrenaline of speeding along winding racetracks, a variety of game modes will be available.

What can be expected in early access?

• 20 racing cars;

• 5 tracks: Brands Hatch, Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari (Imola), Laguna Seca, Mount Panorama (Bathurst), and Suzuka;

• Triple Screen support;

• Full VR support;

• Quick Race mode for single players to hone and test their skills;

• Training mode (single-player);

• Car and showroom customization;

• Advanced game economy: the ability to rent cars, earn rewards, and gain experience points. A detailed driver profile and even driver’s licenses will also be introduced;

• Driving Academy.

The full list of car models and tracks that will be available in AC Evo during early access can be found in this article: AC Evo Will Have 20 Cars and 5 Tracks Available in Early Access!

Davide Brivio, at the ADAC SimRacing Expo 2024, also stated that AC Evo players will have access to a credit system. These credits can be earned and spent on purchasing and tuning cars (e.g., engine configurations, wheels, and exterior designs). Additionally, it will be possible to rent any car, as mentioned earlier. However, there will be no microtransactions, as Brivio clarified.

Driving Academy Mode

A special feature of the game is the new Driving Academy mode. All routes in this mode will be divided into sections that must be completed one by one against the clock. In the academy, you can gradually improve your driving skills, eventually earning a driver’s license. These licenses will grant access to more premium cars!

Mod Support

The team at Kunos has confirmed that AC Evo will also support mods. However, it’s not yet known how this will be implemented, but according to statements, modders will receive a powerful editor for creating modifications.

Most likely, all mods will be subject to verification by Kunos. This will help prevent unauthorized use of brands and names when creating racetracks and car models. Therefore, modders may even be able to collaborate directly with car manufacturers and racetrack licensors.

Additionally, modding support is not expected to be added until Assetto Corsa Evo exits early access. The community will have to wait a bit longer for modification support to be implemented.

Will Assetto Corsa Evo support multiplayer?

Yes! Multiplayer support will be included in the game, but it won’t be available in the early version. This feature is likely to be added later.

The multiplayer mode will be based on SimGrid. Players will have access to a driver profile, daily races, and race statistics. This is somewhat similar to what we’ve seen in Gran Turismo 7.

Additionally, the game is known to feature an open world, where players can not only drive along tracks but also interact with various facilities, such as shops, workshops, and car dealerships. Players will be able to buy, rent, or repair cars, as well as refuel or recharge (for electric vehicles) along the way. The open world will expand as the game progresses, covering an area of 1,600 square kilometers.

It’s worth noting that not all features will be available during early access, as they will be introduced in the full version. Even with this list, it’s clear the game is worth the anticipation. Whether it lives up to expectations or not will be revealed after the release!