A New Era for WRC Games with Nacon and Kylotonn

Sometimes, the most impactful news doesn’t come with the roar of engines, but with the stroke of a pen. That was the case when it was announced that Nacon and Kylotonn (KT Racing) will once again take charge of the official WRC video games starting in 2027.

For those of us who closely follow the world of sim racing and are passionate about rally, this news carries a bittersweet taste — a mix of nostalgia, uncertainty, and, truth be told, a dash of hope.

Looking Back: The Legacy of KT Racing and WRC

Personally, I have mixed memories of KT Racing’s previous stint with the license. Titles like WRC 8 and WRC Generations offered intense moments, challenging stages, and an atmosphere that tried to capture the essence of rallying.

However, they also suffered from persistent issues: lackluster physics, underwhelming sound design, and an experience that, while enjoyable, rarely reached the heights many of us dreamed of.

So when the license moved on to new hands under EA Sports and Codemasters, many believed we were finally getting the modern benchmark we had long awaited — something to rival the legacy of Richard Burns Rally. But that hope was short-lived. Just one release, no follow-up, and an abrupt farewell that left us with more questions than answers.

A Second Chance?

Now, with the announcement of Nacon and KT Racing returning, the debate has been reignited. Is this a step forward or a return to the familiar? Can they truly rise above their past limitations? The company promises an “ambitious reinterpretation” of the rally concept, and the licensing deal — running from 2027 through 2032 — suggests a long-term commitment. This is a golden opportunity to reinvent themselves.

The community, however, remains divided. Some are skeptical, pointing to recent titles from the studio that were criticized for their lack of polish. Others, more optimistic, believe the time away from the license may have allowed them to refine their vision and return with a clearer purpose.

Hope for the Future of Rally Sim Games

I find myself somewhere in the middle. Their past may not be perfect, but no studio starts out as a master. With the experience they’ve accumulated and the pressure of being back in the spotlight, perhaps Nacon and KT Racing can take the leap in quality we’ve been waiting for. And although 2027 feels far off, in the world of game development, it’s just enough time to build something truly innovative — if driven by passion and focus.

In the meantime, the community will keep burning rubber in Dirt Rally 2.0, reviving Richard Burns Rally with mods, and dreaming of a simulator that captures the spirit of modern rallying. Because one thing is clear: the hunger for a truly great WRC game hasn’t faded. It just needs to be fed with something that not only plays well, but also feels authentic.

Yes, we’ll need to wait. But just like in any rally stage, what matters isn’t just reaching the finish line — it’s how every twist and turn along the way is handled.

You can get EA SPORTS WRC by clicking HERE.

See you on the grass!