What to Expect in Assetto Corsa Rally Update 0.5

What to Expect in Assetto Corsa Rally Update 0.5

Update 0.5 for the Assetto Corsa Rally Early Access Program is almost here!

“Ciao a tutti,
This major update introduces significant features that elevate both the content and mechanics of ACR. We are thrilled to unveil Rally Greece, now playable with two demanding gravel special stages: Elatia and Loutraki.

Elatia is designed for blistering pace and high average speeds, while Loutraki offers a technical, winding layout that demands precision.

In tandem with these new stages, we are excited to launch the first phase of online multiplayer. This includes single-stage gameplay, allowing you to host private lobbies or jump into official developer-managed sessions.

Furthermore, we have dedicated extensive effort to refactoring our physics engine. This initiative supports our development roadmap across the short, medium, and long term. In the immediate future, we have implemented the changes outlined in our changelog, most notably the ‘bulldozing’ effect on gravel. This simulates how tires displace loose surfaces to generate more authentic, life-like grip. We have also performed a comprehensive retuning of all surfaces and vehicles.

Looking ahead, we aim to reintroduce advanced thermal dynamics for tires and brakes, tire wear modeling, and sophisticated suspension setups for rough terrain. In the long term, our renewed partnership with MegaRide—a leader in vehicle dynamics, tire simulation, and testing—will enable us to push our tire model and handling fidelity even further.

As promised, ACR is a living simulator. Our commitment remains steadfast: to bridge the gap between simulation and reality using cutting-edge technology.

Please note that leaderboards will be reset to ensure fair competition under the new physics parameters. Additionally, we’ve addressed a wide array of bug fixes based on the valuable feedback provided by our community via social media and official channels.

Thank you for your ongoing support. Divertitevi e grazie mille / ευχαριστώ!

The Supernova Team”

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Update 0.5 Highlights

New Location

Rally Greece, featuring the Elatia and Loutraki special stages.

Multiplayer Phase One

Official and custom ACR lobbies, featuring weekly single-stage events.

Physics Overhaul

Refined tire modeling, advanced surface recognition, gravel bulldozing, enhanced camber dynamics, tactile vibrations, and a global vehicle/surface rebalance.

New Events

Expanded event categories, new snow-based challenges, and official multiplayer rotation schedules.

General Improvements

Extensive polish across audio, gameplay, UI, VFX, and environmental assets, alongside numerous bug fixes.

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Rally Greece
Loutraki Special Stage

A legendary stage with a deep history in the World Rally Championship. Beginning in the town of Loutraki, the route climbs into the Aghii Theodori hills, surrounded by dusty roads, treacherous boulders, and constant hazards. The layout is a challenging mix of high-speed sections and tight, technical technical twists, demanding absolute focus and precise car control.

Elatia Special Stage

Connecting the settlements of Elatia and Zeli, this WRC-proven stage is characterized by wide, dusty, and rutted roads strewn with exposed rock. It is a high-speed test of nerve that allows drivers to exploit their car’s power, yet it requires constant vigilance to manage the punishing surface conditions.

Online Multiplayer Phase One

Our first phase of multiplayer supports lobbies for up to 16 players. Hosts can manage weather conditions and set vehicle restrictions, or join our official developer-hosted rooms. To ensure a steady flow of races, official lobbies operate on multiple instances, ensuring the community always has a place to race.

Physics Overhaul

Update 0.5 introduces a major upgrade to our tire model, featuring a revised peak slip angle formula that enhances inner-tire utility and a more stable load-sensitivity calculation. Surface recognition has been rebuilt to allow for unique parameters per terrain, while the new longitudinal and lateral bulldozing effects provide a more accurate feel on loose surfaces. Experimental vibration feedback and improved camber dynamics round out the overhaul, delivering superior Force Feedback and handling precision.

New Content

– New Location: Rally Greece (2 unique Special Stages, 12 layout variants, 22km of laser-scanned detail).
– Multiplayer Launch: Official and custom lobby support.
– Core Physics: Major overhaul across all vehicles and terrain.
– Fresh Challenges: 24 new event groups and 8 new snow-condition events for Alsace and Wales.

Cars & Physics

– Cockpit: Added immersive interior vibrations.
– Tire Model: Revised slip angle, load sensitivity, and contact patch dynamics for improved performance.
– Surface Physics: Added bulldozing effects and experimental stick-slip vibration feedback.
– Global Tuning: A comprehensive rebalance of all cars, surfaces, and setup presets.

Multiplayer Features

– Lobby System: Fully functional browsing, creation, and spectating tools.
– Event Calendar: Two weekly events and one premium weekend event (Friday–Sunday).

Audio, VFX & Environment

– Audio: Remixed engine and exhaust notes for the Impreza S3 and Peugeot 306, plus improved 3D spatialization.
– VFX: Advanced particle lighting and enhanced skid marks that react dynamically to the ideal line.
– Environments: Performance optimizations, high-res crowd models, and cleaned-up vegetation placement.

Source