In an unexpected move that has sent shockwaves through the sim racing community, a new contender has decisively entered the rally arena. Assetto Corsa Rally, developed by Supernova Games Studios and 505 Games in a technical partnership with KUNOS Simulazioni, has launched into early access, promising to redefine expectations for virtual rally driving.
A Driving Experience Unlike Any Other
The rally game sub-genre has been in a state of flux for years. While titles like DIRT and EA Sports WRC have been the primary options, along with the venerable, mod-supported Richard Burns Rally, players have been longing for a fresh, authentic experience. The release of Assetto Corsa Rally in November 2025 appears to be the answer to those calls.
Announced on a random Friday in October, the game swiftly moved into its early access phase. While it carries the typical caveats of an unfinished title—such as some technical glitches and limited content—its core driving experience is being hailed as genuinely unmatched. The most significant achievement lies in its driving physics, a area where recent competitors have often fallen short.
Gravel, Tarmac, and Unforgettable Audio
Where Assetto Corsa Rally truly excels is in its feel behind the wheel. On tarmac, the game is superb, providing impressive feedback whether you're managing oversteer in a rear-wheel-drive car or battling understeer in a front-wheel-drive model.
The real magic, however, happens on gravel. This is a surface that has historically been difficult for developers to simulate convincingly, but Assetto Corsa Rally nails it. The sensation of constant sliding, the bumpy feedback through the steering wheel, and the ever-present threat of crashing into a tree or ditch create a tense, exhilarating, and incredibly fun drive. It gives you a fighting chance to complete a stage through pure skill and feedback.
The game also features an intuitive co-driver system, with audio pacenotes complemented by on-screen symbols. Newcomers will need to spend time learning these notes to be competitive. Another standout feature is the audio design. Each car has a distinct and powerful engine sound, with the Lancia Stratos Gr.4 and its Ferrari-derived V6 being a particular highlight for petrolheads.
Quality Over Quantity in Early Access
The current early access version is deliberately focused. There are only two laser-scanned locations: the gravel stages of Wales and the tarmac roads of Alsace. The car roster is also limited to 10 iconic models, including the Lancia Delta HF Integrale Evo and the Fiat 124 Sport Abarth Rally. This is a clear case of quality over quantity, as every car looks and feels glorious. A delightful minor detail is the presence of spectators who must leap out of your way as you power through a stage.
In terms of gameplay modes, players currently have access to rally events with online leaderboards, free practice, time attack, a rally weekend mode, and single stage rallies. The game is priced at £24.99, reflecting its early access status. Purchasers are effectively acting as beta testers for the full release.
The developers, 505 Games, have outlined an ambitious roadmap. They aim to reach version 1.0 within 12-18 months, with the full release promising over 120 km of laser-scanned stages, more than 30 rally cars, and new modes including a Career Mode and Rally School. Full VR support is also planned, though timelines may be subject to change.
Overall, Assetto Corsa Rally is a stellar example of how to execute an early access launch. By prioritising the most critical element—the driving physics—above all else, the developers have created a phenomenal foundation. For anyone with even a passing interest in rally games, Assetto Corsa Rally is simply unmissable.
