Assetto Corsa EVO Set to Revolutionize Sim Racing with Massive Open World

Assetto Corsa EVO is generating significant excitement in the sim racing community, largely due to its expansive, fully drivable open-world map based on the Eifel region. With its Early Access release just around the corner on January 16, 2025, recent insights from a live stream featuring Kunos Simulazioni's Co-Founder and Managing Director, Marco Massarutto, have shed further light on this highly anticipated title.

The announcement of the 1,600km2 open world initially sparked concerns that AC EVO might deviate from its realistic simulation roots, potentially leaning towards a more arcade-like experience similar to Forza Horizon. However, Massarutto reassured fans that the open world is entirely optional. "If you want to, you can completely forget the open world in EVO," he stated, emphasizing that it's "an additional value" and not essential for enjoying the core sim racing experience. He acknowledged the popularity of free-roam mods within the community but stressed that players who prefer traditional track racing will still have a dedicated and authentic Assetto Corsa experience.

Fully Drivable Map and Off-Road Capabilities:

Despite the optional nature of the open world, Massarutto expressed confidence that many players will be drawn to it once they experience it. The map will encompass a 40x40 kilometer area with the Nürburgring-Nordschleife at its center. Crucially, Massarutto confirmed that "the entire area is drivable," including off-road terrain. Dedicated off-road parks, based on real-world locations, will also be added progressively after the initial release. The first open-world release will focus on the area closest to the Nordschleife, with the exact size of this initial area still being finalized. The map will be rolled out progressively, starting in Summer 2025.

Gameplay Features: Realism Without Frustration:

AC EVO's open world will prioritize immersive realism without unnecessary frustration. While features like speed limits, fines, and police chases are not planned for the initial release, Massarutto hinted at the possibility of adding elements like police or drivable service vehicles (e.g., ambulances) in the future. The focus remains on a "real immersive without being frustrating" experience, meaning players won't be penalized for exceeding speed limits.

Fuel and electric charge management will be incorporated for players seeking a higher level of realism. These resources will need to be replenished, and opting for more realistic gameplay settings will result in greater in-game rewards. Massarutto explained that the game will offer various modes to simplify these aspects, allowing players to tailor the experience to their preferences.

Career Mode and Licensing:

Instead of a traditional career mode, AC EVO will require players to earn racing licenses to participate in events. This system adds a layer of progression beyond simply purchasing cars and entering races.

Release Timeline and Modding:

Assetto Corsa EVO will launch in Early Access on January 16, 2025, with the full release scheduled for Fall 2025. Modding will not be available during Early Access, but Massarutto confirmed that they intend to open EVO to modding post-release, similar to the approach taken with Assetto Corsa 1. The goal is to keep the Early Access period as concise as possible.