Assetto Corsa EVO: Successor or Companion?

As the racing simulation world eagerly anticipates the launch of ACE (Assetto Corsa Evoluzione), one critical question looms: will ACE be a definitive successor to the iconic Assetto Corsa (AC), or will it serve as a complementary companion?

Kunos Simulazioni’s strategy with ACE sheds light on this debate, but the ultimate verdict will likely rest with the community.

A Successor in Spirit

ACE is poised to deliver advanced features that address many of AC’s limitations. With a cutting-edge game engine, superior graphics, and improved physics, ACE has the potential to redefine realism in racing simulation.

Its creators have emphasized their commitment to elevating the gaming experience, from enhanced multiplayer systems to sophisticated AI.

However, positioning ACE as a direct successor comes with challenges. AC is more than just a sim—it’s a platform that has thrived for nearly a decade, thanks to its vibrant modding community.

Players and modders have pushed AC beyond its vanilla capabilities, creating a legacy that ACE must respect while forging its path.

A Vanilla Start for ACE?

New game releases often come with limitations on modding, at least initially. ACE’s early stages may be no exception. Its advanced engine and features will undoubtedly offer a better base game experience than AC’s vanilla version.

However, without the immediate influx of mods, ACE could feel restrictive to players accustomed to AC’s endless customization.

This phenomenon has played out before in gaming communities. Players of the original game often criticize its sequel for feeling “vanilla” or incomplete. Only after modders adapt and contribute to the new platform does the sequel begin to shine.

Modding: The Key to ACE’s Longevity

For ACE to truly succeed as either a successor or a companion, it must embrace modding.

Kunos Simulazioni’s support for mods will determine how quickly the community migrates. If ACE includes tools or marketplaces that simplify modding and reward creators, it could attract both veteran modders and new talent.

Such an approach would accelerate ACE’s growth and bridge the gap between the two sims.

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