Hold on to your helmets! The latest evolution of Assetto Corsa EVO, the popular racing simulator on Steam, has arrived with a substantial early access update. This third iteration brings online multiplayer to the forefront, alongside a selection of exciting new vehicles and tracks to experience – just be prepared for some competitive driving!
Since its initial early access release earlier this year, I’ve been eager to see how Assetto Corsa EVO has progressed. This update, with the inclusion of the iconic 90s Mercedes-Benz 190E, might be the perfect reason to jump back into the driver’s seat and explore what developer Kunos Simulazioni has been working on.
Let’s dive into what update 3 offers. The main highlight is the introduction of online multiplayer, enabling racers to compete against up to 16 others. These races occur on free, dedicated in-game servers that operate continuously, providing a variety of race types, tracks, and dynamic weather conditions.
However, the impending arrival of custom servers, which will require payment, has sparked some debate among players and appears to have influenced the game’s “Mixed” Steam rating. The pricing structure includes options such as €15 plus VAT for a 30-day server with 20 or more slots, or €5 for a single day of unlimited slots. Discounted rates are available for longer rental periods (three, six, or twelve months). This monetization strategy has proven controversial, particularly for a game still in paid early access.
Beyond multiplayer, update 3 expands the vehicle roster with nine new cars, divided into GT, special, and road categories. The GT class welcomes the BMW M4 GT3 EVO, Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo EVO2, and Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport. The “special” additions include the Caterham Seven Academy Racer, Dallara Stradale, and the legendary Ferrari F2004 Formula 1 car driven by Michael Schumacher. Finally, the road car additions are the Audi RS 6 Avant, BMW M3 Sport Evo (E30), and of course, the aforementioned Mercedes-Benz 190E Evo 2. As for tracks, the iconic Spa-Francorchamps and Red Bull Ring have been added.
Upon starting the game, players will also notice enhanced car audio, a refined tire simulation model, and graphical improvements featuring global illumination, optimized CPU/GPU usage (especially in larger races), and significantly reduced VRAM requirements.
Hopefully, the enhanced optimization means smoother races. And if you happen to encounter a driver with questionable sportsmanship, please extend my regards!