When Kunos Simulazioni and Supernova Games Studios dropped Assetto Corsa Rally into Early Access on November 13, 2024, the rally racing community collectively lost its mind. This wasn’t just another arcade racer with forgiving physics—this is the brutally authentic simulation that separates true enthusiasts from casual players, and it’s already turning heads for all the right reasons.
Table of Contents
Assetto Corsa Launch Package Breakdown
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | November 13, 2024 (Early Access) |
| Platform | PC (Steam) |
| Price | $30 USD (launch sale: $24) |
| Cars at Launch | 10 vehicles (1964-2021) |
| Stages | 4 full stages (Wales & Alsace) |
| Engine Tech | AC Physics + Unreal Engine 5 |
| Input Support | Wheel & controller |
| Full Release | Within 18 months |
Where Assetto Corsa Rally Absolutely Shines
The stages feature real stretches of dirt and tarmac that have been laser-scanned for inclusion, marking a first for rally gaming. This means terrain changes, vegetation shifts, and elevation dynamics all feel authentic rather than artificially designed.
The physics engine demands absolute respect. The 1976 Lancia Stratos is a twitchy, oversteering handful that punishes ham-fisted inputs, while the Hyundai i20 Rally2 offers more composure but still requires precision. Each car handles distinctly across different surfaces—tarmac, gravel, snow, and ice all require unique approaches.
The co-driver system is a masterclass in immersion. The game includes an encyclopedia explaining what each pace note means, transforming the experience from reactive scrambling to proactive driving when you learn to trust those calls. This educational approach makes rally racing accessible without dumbing it down.
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The Early Access Reality Check
If you’re accustomed to Codemasters’ titles, the diminished level of grip is immediately noticeable. The game doesn’t forgive mistakes—slide too aggressively, and you’ll cook your tires or end up backwards through a hedge.
Content limitations are the biggest issue. Ten cars and four stages won’t satisfy everyone long-term, though Supernova promises the 1.0 release within 18 months will feature 30 cars, 10 full special stages across five locations with 35 total configurations, plus career mode, rally school, and VR support.
The absence of multiplayer at launch feels like a missed opportunity, though the foundation is strong enough to make solo play compelling.
Technical Performance and Visuals
Powered by customized Unreal Engine 5, the game delivers stunning visuals without the shader stuttering issues that plagued EA Sports WRC at launch. The lighting, environmental detail, and atmospheric effects create an immersive racing experience that runs surprisingly well even on mid-range PCs.
For official updates and community resources, visit Assetto Corsa’s official site.
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Final Verdict: Built for Purists
This isn’t a lean-back experience—it’s a lean-forward, white-knuckle simulator that rewards skill and punishes complacency. ACR is designed to be even more brutally realistic than Dirt Rally, and that’s exactly its appeal.
For hardcore rally fans disappointed by arcade-style alternatives, Assetto Corsa Rally represents the authentic simulation they’ve been waiting for. The foundation is exceptional; now it just needs time to expand.
FAQs
Can beginners enjoy Assetto Corsa Rally or is it only for experienced sim racers?
While ACR has a steep learning curve, it’s surprisingly beginner-friendly in its approach. The game includes a comprehensive Rally Encyclopedia that explains pace notes, car history, sport regulations, and driving techniques. Starting with lower-powered front-wheel-drive cars like the Peugeot 208 Rally4 helps newcomers learn the physics before tackling rear-wheel-drive monsters. The planned Rally School mode in the full release will further support new players.
Does Assetto Corsa Rally work well with a controller or do I need a racing wheel?
Both work, though the experience differs significantly. Supernova designed the game primarily for wheel-and-pedals setups, where force feedback and pedal precision truly shine. However, controller support is functional and feels better than other Assetto Corsa titles on gamepad. With tweaked sensitivity curves and dead zone adjustments, players report achieving respectable stage times using Xbox or DualSense controllers. Many reviewers successfully played the preview build entirely on controllers.