The Evolution of Sim Racing Part 5: Modern Sim Racing

The 2010s delivered an incredible lineup of sim racing titles that pushed the boundaries of realism and immersion. Simulation quality reached new heights, offering racing fans deeply accurate representations of cars and competition. Many of these titles continue to evolve today, remaining at the forefront of online racing. Among the most influential names to emerge are Assetto Corsa, rFactor 2, Automobilista, iRacing, and more recently, Le Mans Ultimate.

While rFactor 2 and Le Mans Ultimate are direct descendants of the original rFactor, this article focuses on two fan-favorite giants: iRacing and Assetto Corsa (including its motorsport-focused evolution, Assetto Corsa Competizione).

Developed by sim racing pioneer Dave Kaemmer and launched in 2008, iRacing quickly established itself as a benchmark in the genre. Available exclusively on PC, iRacing operates on a subscription model: players start with a base pack of cars and tracks, and expand their collection by purchasing additional content over time.

iRacing covers a wide spectrum of motorsport disciplines — Formula, NASCAR, IndyCar, RallyCross, GT, Prototypes — all with a strong focus on online competition. Races are scheduled regularly (every 20 minutes to 2 hours), making competitive play constantly available.

Key strengths:

• Constantly updated vehicle physics with deep suspension, tire (v7 model), aero, and damage modeling.
• Metre by metre laser-scanned circuits and cars for ultimate accuracy.
• Setup changes have real, noticeable effects on car behavior.
• Structured license and ranking system (iRating/Safety Rating) ensures fair matchmaking.
• Professional-grade telemetry support (e.g., MoTeC).
• Trusted by real-world drivers and racing teams for training and development.

Developed by Italian studio Kunos Simulazioni, Assetto Corsa offers an immersive and authentic driving experience with a superb physics engine and top-tier audio/visual fidelity. Unlike iRacing, it’s available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, making it more accessible.

It delivers a strong sense of car behavior, blending simulation with drivability. Whether you’re a casual player or hardcore sim racer, Assetto Corsa offers something for everyone. Its greatest asset? Modding freedom. Players can install thousands of custom cars, tracks, liveries, sound packs, and more — all backed by a massive and passionate community.

Highlights:

• Advanced physics engine with realistic suspension and tire modeling.
• Natural, communicative driving feel — rewarding but not punishing.
• Excellent force feedback, even on mid-range wheels.
• Laser-scanned tracks and a large base car roster.
• Legendary mod support — a true sandbox for sim racing creativity.

Also from Kunos Simulazioni, Assetto Corsa Competizione (ACC) is the official simulator of the GT World Challenge series. Unlike its predecessor, ACC focuses solely on GT racing, with full FIA-licensed cars, teams, and tracks. Available on PC and consoles, it takes realism to the next level with dynamic weather and day-night cycles.

ACC features a completely rebuilt physics and tire model, delivering what is arguably the most refined GT simulation experience on the market today.

Core features:

• Fully rewritten physics from the ground up for GT racing.
• Ultra-accurate Lamborghini SuperTrofeo, Porsche 911 Cup, GT2/GT3/GT4 cars, officially licensed and approved by real teams.
• Deep simulation of ABS, traction control, pit strategy, tire wear, and brake temperatures.
• Dynamic weather and lighting with realistic wet conditions (aquaplaning, puddles, variable grip).
• Tire pressure and temperature simulation directly affect performance.
• Built-in driver rating system for competitive matchmaking.

From open modding playgrounds to official esports platforms, sim racing has evolved massively over the past decade. Whether you're chasing lap times in Assetto Corsa, mastering GT strategy in Competizione, or climbing the online ranks in iRacing, there's a rich, immersive world waiting on the grid.