In the world of realistic racing sims, there are several challengers to the throne, but none stand above Gran Turismo and Forza. Assetto Corsa is the latest challenger, and while it boasts a surface-level well-rounded package, a closer inspection leaves the games’ several shortcomings more than apparent. Besides the fact that this is a repackaged two-year-old game, Assetto Corsa just doesn’t have much to offer that you can’t already find elsewhere. While there are problems, there is also some good, so let’s get into the thick of it, and help you decide if this game is worth your time.
Assetto Corsa is a fresh console port of a PC game from a few years ago. Both then and now, the game serves as an excellent driving simulator. Visually, the cars and tracks are well-represented for the most part. To be clear, this is a game made by and for car fanatics- if you’re idea of a racing game is something from the Burnout or Need For Speed series’ this isn’t the game you’re looking for. It’s technical, in-depth, and extremely demanding of its player-base.
Assetto Corsa presents a wide diversity of cars to choose from, the handling is top-notch, and the physics are on par with any other major release. Visually, while there is the occasional rough edge that sticks out, the game is gorgeous to look at. These cars look impressive at any angle, and the interiors are easy on the eyes as well. It’s an amazing presentation, especially when you consider its Kickstarter-heritage.
It sure may make for a shiny, pretty package, but lurking underneath that beauty is a whole host of issues that drags Assetto Corsa down from the heights it could have potentially achieved. The worst of these issues is the needlessly obtuse, confusing, and frustrating penalty system. Head into a turn too fast? Ride on the curb too much? Anything along these lines causes you to slow down without you entirely realizing it. Furthermore, if you continue to accelerate during this slow-down process, your timer will be reset entirely. It’s so precarious and irking that it’ll drive even experienced sim drivers nuts. Add to that, issues like horrible AI opponents and janky character models, and you’ve got a game that’s equal parts beautiful and messy.
I’m usually reluctant to compare works of art to each other, but in this case it’s almost necessary. Between titles like F1, Forza, and GT there’s little need to pursue Assetto. This one is strictly for hardcore fanatics with loads of patience and time on their hands.
