Kunos Simulazioni and 505 Games, nearly two years after releasing their acclaimed GT3 racing simulator on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, have now updated the game for the PS5 and Xbox Series S|X platforms.
Originally launched on last-gen consoles a year after its PC debut, Assetto Corsa Competizione quickly established itself as one of the most realistic racing games on consoles. While the core game remains the same as its 2020 release, it has gained some notable enhancements on the new hardware. For a detailed look at the game’s features, refer to RaceFans’ original review.
This current-gen upgrade is free for those who own the PS4 or Xbox One version, allowing players to continue their GT3 racing careers seamlessly with saved data and profiles intact. Assetto Corsa Competizione stands out as an authentic, hardcore simulation racing game, replicating real-life GT3 and GT4 racing to an impressive degree. The game demands a professional approach, with a deep and realistic handling model offering a high level of control and challenge.
The game is playable with a controller, with improved DualSense features over the PS4 version, but a wheel is almost essential due to the complexity of the commands and functions.
The major improvement in the current-gen version is the graphical performance. Where the game previously ran at 30 frames-per-second on the base PS4, often dipping below, the new hardware enables a consistent 60FPS gameplay experience. This enhancement significantly improves the game, especially in visually demanding scenarios.
While not the most visually stunning racing game of 2022, with some environmental and car graphics issues, these are minor when immersed in the game’s intense racing.
For beginners, there are some drawbacks, such as the menu system and UI being more suited for mouse and keyboard, making it somewhat unintuitive for controller navigation. Understanding all the game parameters can be challenging for simracing novices, and audio feedback from the race engineer isn’t as helpful as in other racing games like Project CARS or the F1 series.
However, once players get accustomed to the game and the handling of the powerful cars, there’s great satisfaction in mastering the circuits and improving lap times. The AI provides a good challenge, but the best experience is online with the game’s serious and respectful community.
While other racing games may excel in certain aspects better than Competizione, its core racing experience and handling model are unmatched in terms of complexity, reward, and realism. With the graphical upgrades and free access for last-gen owners, Assetto Corsa Competizione is a highly accessible and affordable entry into hardcore simulation racing.
