The folks over at KUNOS Simulazioni and 505 Games have released a “Next-Gen” update for Assetto Corsa Competizione, supporting the Xbox Series X/S & Playstation 5 consoles. If you’re looking for some increased tech improvements to the hardcore simulation racer, this is the version to have.
I reviewed the original console release of Assetto Corsa Competizione (ACC) back in 2020 and came away with it being an excellent simulation racer that came away feeling dry. If all you’re looking for is a simulation experience with accurate GT drivers and rides, then ACC is the title that should be in your library. The next-gen update keeps the solid gameplay but utilizes the power of this current crop of consoles to impress the eyes even more than what was shown on the PS4 and Xbox One.
First and foremost, if you already own the game, you’ll get this update for free on the corresponding next-generation console. If this is your first purchase, they’ll sell you the Xbox Series X|S or PlayStation 5 copy for $39.99, and it is compatible with all previously released ACC DLC.
Other features that have been added are:
- 60fps
- 4K resolution
- Faster load times
- 30-driver multiplayer lobbies
- A smoother race experience
- The 2021 official season liveries
- The inclusion of the BMW M4 GT3
There is no ray tracing support for this game on either console if you’re curious.
As I mentioned in my previous review, if you’re interested in ACC, you will want to invest in a steering wheel setup; this game had to have been created with the wheel in mind. Playing on the controller requires some serious patience and practice. You don’t want to go into ACC thinking it’ll drive like Forza Horizon, let alone Forza Motorsport or Gran Turismo. The steering can be twitchy and unruly, but thankfully you’re able to adjust sensitivity and assists. Doing so will make the experience slightly more comfortable but still hard to master. If you’re used to the simply dry and menu-heavy aspects of the former two titles I mentioned, you’ll find that ACC is actually dryer than them.
For most players, the game will not hold your attention. There’s no in-depth progression to keep your interest or even a story per se to engage you. The game is strictly about getting on the track and racing. This isn’t a negative for the audience ACC is going for, but if you’re looking to expand outside of Forza, GT, or even Project Cars, this is the next gear to shift into, and you’ll want to know what you’re about to experience.
Besides the racing experience, the game looks stunning with its 4K 60fps support. I thought the PS4 release looked good, but it’s hard not to look at this update and think I’m playing on some high-end PC rig. All the vehicles look impressive on the track, and the tracks themselves look photo-accurate. It’ll be interesting to see a comparison between this and Gran Turismo 7 when it releases as ACC looks gorgeous.
Even with the game looking and performing to near high-end PC specs, it still has the same weaknesses I came across in the original release. Mainly with how dry and mechanical the experience is outside of the racing. I mentioned in my previous review that the underpinnings of a great racing sim are here, and they still are. Still, Assetto Corsa Competizione may need to branch out and focus some on the experience off track to hit that next level.
The cars and the environments have never been more stunning to look at, and the game runs superbly with short load times all around. If you’re into GT3 cars or only want to focus on simulation racing, you’re going to be impressed. If you’re a new player, it’s going to take a while till you’re in the groove, and that’s if you stick with it long enough. With how dry everything is outside of the racing, that may quickly turn off your average race fan.
An Xbox Series X code for the game was provided by the publisher for review purposes
