Automobilista 2 (AMS2) stands out as a gem, offering an immersive driving experience that captivates solo racers. However, a lamentable truth surfaces: the online multiplayer component of AMS2, as of 2024, remains an unexplored frontier.
The Bittersweet Reality of AMS2’s Online Component
While AMS2 excels in providing the joy of solo laps on less common tracks and revving up vintage F1 V12 engines, the community of simracers, thriving on pure online competition, feels left behind. The nostalgic charm of solo driving has its place, but the racing world is evolving, and AMS2’s limited online capabilities are a missed opportunity.
In the current landscape, the absence of a robust online multiplayer system in AMS2 becomes glaringly apparent. Simracers yearn for the adrenaline rush of competing against real opponents, proving their skills in a diverse and challenging environment. Unfortunately, AMS2 falls short in delivering this essential element that defines modern simracing.
The simracing community, now laser-focused on pure online racing experiences, has moved beyond the confines of solo enjoyment. The allure lies in the camaraderie, competition, and constant improvement that comes from engaging with real adversaries. As the industry evolves, AMS2’s solo-oriented approach becomes a potential obstacle to its continued success.
The Gems We Overlook: AMS2’s Exceptional Features
A glimmer of hope emerged when AMS2 released one of its most anticipated DLCs—Le Mans circuit, new GT3s, and LMDh prototypes. This free offering served as a catalyst, reigniting interest in the simulator. The Le Mans DLC showcased AMS2’s commitment to delivering quality content, making it even more disappointing that the online multiplayer aspect is not keeping pace.
One area where AMS2 unquestionably shines is in track feedback and realism. The sensation of traversing rumble strips and navigating the nuances of each track is unparalleled. In comparison, other simulators, like iRacing, often fall short in providing comprehensive feedback, leaving players yearning for a more immersive experience.
Dynamic weather transitions, a hallmark of AMS2, add an extra layer of excitement to the racing experience. Unlike some competitors that struggle to capture the essence of wet tracks and changing weather conditions, AMS2 successfully simulates the challenges of transitioning from dry to wet surfaces. The attention to detail in these scenarios sets AMS2 apart in the world of racing simulators.
A Roadblock for AMS2’s Longevity
It’s disheartening to acknowledge that Reiza, the developers behind AMS2, seem to have left the online system largely unattended. Whether due to technical constraints or lack of focus, the absence of a robust online multiplayer framework in 2024 puts AMS2 at a disadvantage. For a racing simulator to endure and thrive, a vibrant online community is essential, and AMS2 seems to be missing the mark.
Lessons from the Industry:
The racing simulator industry has seen success stories where developers, like Kunos with Assetto Corsa, responded to user demands for a competitive online experience. Low Fuel Motorsport’s impact on Assetto Corsa serves as a case study, demonstrating that a dedicated online community can propel a simulator to new heights. AMS2 developers must take note and consider the longevity of their creation.
Competitive partnerships have played a crucial role in the sustained success of certain simulators, with Assetto Corsa Competizione being a prime example. While the initial release may have had a competitive edge, ongoing collaborations and improvements, especially in the online arena, have kept the community engaged. AMS2 could benefit from similar strategic collaborations to enhance its online offerings.
The Heart of Sim Racing: The Competitive System
Simracers are a unique breed, driven not just by the love of racing but by the constant desire to compete and compare. It’s not merely about crossing the finish line; it’s about showcasing superiority over other drivers, measuring skills through iRating, points, or any metric that establishes supremacy. This inherent competitive urge is what keeps the simracing community vibrant and engaged.
Speaking from a personal perspective, the joy of simracing isn’t just in participating—it’s in proving oneself. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer, the thrill of outperforming others and seeing your accomplishments reflected in tangible metrics adds an extra layer of satisfaction
Automobilista 2: The Best Single Player Experience
It’s crucial to recognize the untapped potential that lies within this remarkable simulator. From the realism of track feedback to dynamic weather transitions, AMS2 offers an experience that, unfortunately, many are missing out on due to the underdeveloped online multiplayer system.
The racing community is hungry for a robust online multiplayer system that aligns with the standards of 2024. A well-crafted online experience will not only enhance the simulator’s appeal but also contribute to its longevity and success in the highly competitive world of simracing.
Let’s not only drive solo laps but also race against the world and, in doing so, truly unlock the full potential of Automobilista 2.
Happy Racing!
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I’m a newcomer to sim racing, and my friend and I have enjoyed the more relaxed nature of AMS2. Trying to best each other’s lap times on the boards as we learn. Though, I am sure at some point we will want to race realtime online.
We just wish we could do a time attack together online that actually records our best lap times. Rather than running in practice.
In automobilista 2 my tires keep overheating I have the tire pressure set to lowest setting and air ducks all the way open 100% and still over heats on all cars or at least enough of them I messaged the studio many times no reply and no updates that has fixed these problem has existed for at least a year now give or take
This article makes it sound like there’s no online multiplayer. Our community uses AMS2 for all its PC online races. Other communities also do. Maybe Alberto can rewrite this article and actually say exactly what he is missing from the multiplayer experience. I’ve read it twice and still don’t know what he’s trying to say is missing.
Dennis, put some air in your tyres! You say you are running on the lowest pressures…. Flat tyres will overheat.
Hi Paul,
First of all, thank you for your comment! 😀
In the section “The Heart of Sim Racing: The Competitive System,” I outline several reasons why Automobilista 2 requires more than just a multiplayer system with servers.
It’s about more than just racing online; it’s about having metrics, participating in scheduled sessions, engaging in series, official world series, championship points, attracting sponsors—all elements that keep the community invested in the game for the long haul, rather than just popping into a room and race during ten laps.
We don’t want Automobilista 2 to become just another Track Day sim. 🙁
Regards!
I am appalled at how many people lavish praise onto Automobilista when rFactor 2 and iRacing are light-years ahead in realism and feel. The over simplified physics of AM and AM 2 forced me to uninstall each of them after less than 2 hours of gameplay. Granted, the variety of vehicle classes and locations along with vhe visual detail is a big plus, but I want ACTUAL realism. A pretty picture is just that. I left room on my SSD for more entertaining titles. That is all. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Good riddance!