Assetto Corsa EVO Races into Multiplayer with Update 3 – Is It Worth Another Look?
Assetto Corsa EVO, the highly anticipated successor to a Steam racing simulation mainstay, has just received its third major early access update. This release introduces online multiplayer alongside a host of new vehicles and tracks,promising a more complete and competitive racing experience. But does it deliver, and is now the time to jump behind the wheel? LetS dive in.
A Long-Awaited Multiplayer Debut
For those following the development, this update marks a important milestone. I’ve been tracking Assetto Corsa EVO since its early access launch earlier this year, and the addition of multiplayer feels like a turning point. You can now compete against up to 16 other players in free, 24/7 in-game servers, offering a variety of race scenarios, tracks, and dynamic weather conditions.
Expect the usual mix of skilled racers and… less considerate drivers. Be prepared for a bit of bumping!
Custom Servers: A Controversial Monetization Model
While the free multiplayer is a welcome addition,the planned implementation of custom servers has sparked debate. These servers, offering dedicated hosting and control, will be a paid service. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
* 30-day, 20+ slot server: €15 + VAT
* 24-hour, unlimited slot server: €5
* Discounts available for 3, 6, and 12-month rentals.
This monetization strategy, notably for a game still in paid early access, has led to mixed Steam reviews. It’s a point of contention you should be aware of.
New Cars & Tracks to Fuel Your Racing passion
Update 3 isn’t just about multiplayer. Kunos simulazioni has expanded the vehicle roster with nine new additions, catering to diverse racing preferences:
* GT Cars: BMW M4 GT3 EVO, Lamborghini Huracán super Trofeo EVO2, Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport
* Special Racers: Caterham Seven Academy racer, Dallara Stradale, Ferrari F2004 F1 (driven by Michael Schumacher!)
* Road Cars: audi RS 6 Avant, BMW M3 Sport Evo (E30), Mercedes-Benz 190E Evo 2.
And if you’re looking for new places to push these cars to their limits, you’ll find two iconic tracks:
* Spa-Francorchamps: The legendary Belgian circuit, notorious for its challenging layout and unpredictable rain.
* Red Bull Ring: A high-speed Austrian track known for its energy drink branding and thrilling elevation changes.
Under the Hood: Performance & Visual Enhancements
Beyond the headline features, update 3 delivers several key improvements:
* Revamped Car Audio: Expect a more immersive and realistic soundscape.
* Recalibrated Tire Simulation: More nuanced and realistic tire behavior for improved handling.
* Graphical Tweaks: Global illumination,optimized CPU/GPU performance (especially for larger grids),and significantly reduced VRAM usage.
These optimizations aim to deliver a smoother, more stable experience, particularly during online races. Hopefully, this means fewer frustrating stutters and more consistent performance.
Is Assetto Corsa EVO Ready for Your Garage?
Assetto corsa EVO is steadily evolving into a compelling racing simulator. The addition of multiplayer and a diverse range of new content makes this update a significant step forward. However, the controversial server pricing model is something to consider.
If you’re a dedicated racing sim enthusiast, now might be a good time to revisit assetto Corsa EVO and see how far it’s come. Just be prepared for a potentially bumpy ride – both on and off the track. And if someone spins you out online, tell them I said hello!
Resources:
* Assetto Corsa EVO on Steam
* [Update 3 Release Notes](https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/3058630/view/5433696
Worth a look