Assetto Corsa Rally and early access release announced

It is kind of funny that I sat and watched Stefano Mordini’s Race for Glory: Audi vs. Lancia the other day. I mean, it isn’t a great film and if you’re looking for reality, just watch Clarkson’s bit from The Grand Tour, but I did watch it. Now it seems we might get a WRC game before the official WRC game in 2027, as Assetto Corsa Rally was announced earlier today, to the tears running down the thighs of sim racing fans almost everywhere. Well, the ones that want a rally game from a studio known for high fidelity sim racing.

“Developed by Supernova Games Studios, Assetto Corsa Rally brings the acclaimed realistic driving engine of the Assetto Corsa franchise to one of the most demanding and spectacular motorsport disciplines. The game delivers an authentic and immersive experience that captures the unique essence of rallying – the ultimate test of speed, strategy, reflexes, and composure, all rolled into one,” notes the press release.

In partnership with KUNOS Simulazioni, Supernova Games Studios will seemingly take the lead on actually developing Assetto Corsa Rally while KUNOS focuses on EVO. At least I assume that’s the idea. With Supernova being founded by Digital Bros back in 2021, this seems to be the studio’s first major release within the 505 Games publishing label.

The press release goes on to note of Assetto Corsa Rally, “Assetto Corsa Rally will feature both offline gameplay modes and, gradually throughout Early Access, online multiplayer – always with a focus on simulation fidelity. Each race takes place in a dynamic environment, where day-night cycles [and] changing weather conditions, directly impact driving performance.

Temperature, humidity, surface type, and water progressively affect grip and vehicle response, making every stage feel unique. These elements are not mere visual effects but are integral to the physical simulation model, requiring drivers to demonstrate precision, sensitivity, and adaptability to master every situation.”

With noted features on early access launch being 33 kilometers (20.5 in freedom units) of “laserscanned real-life roads,” “4 special stages with 18 variants” set in Wales and Alsace (France), and most notably, “10 iconic rally cars.” With the eventual full release expected to have 120 kilometers (74.5 freedom units), 10 stages with 35 variants over 5 rallies, more than 30 cars, eventually a rally school for learning, and most importantly, for some, a VR mode.

Studio Director at Supernova, Mauro Notarberardino, said of the announcement, “Feeling the lack of a modern rally simulator, we’ve built a team and developed a technology to create one ourselves, with the support of drivers, engineers, collectors, mechanics, and industry experts. A special thanks goes to KUNOS Simulazioni, whose partnership was crucial in maintaining the signature feel of the series – especially in terms of the driving model – in this new chapter. Today marks an exciting new beginning for Supernova and Assetto Corsa Rally, and we can’t wait to share the journey with you.”

Co-founder of KUNOS Simulazioni, Marco Massarutto, noted, “A rally version of Assetto Corsa, when?! It has been one of the most frequent questions I’ve received over these years[,] and I can finally provide an answer.” Before he goes on to note the dedication it takes to make a true rally sim, one that meets the Assetto Corsa name.

You don’t have to wait too long for Assetto Corsa Rally either, as it will be coming to Steam early access sooner than I think anyone expected. Set to release on November 13th, you might as well put up the Lancia posters and leave out the Sprocket wrenches now, because Rally Clause is coming to town. All for the “low, low” price of $29.99/€29,99/£24.99 or your regional equivalents.