Assetto Corsa Competizione

The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with many users highlighting significant issues, particularly in VR performance, which is often described as "atrocious" and requiring extensive tweaking to achieve playable frame rates. While some players report satisfactory performance on high-end systems, others struggle with stuttering and low frame rates even on capable hardware, indicating that the game is not well-optimized for VR compared to other racing sims. Overall, while graphical fidelity is praised, the game's performance, especially in VR, remains a major concern for many users.

The gameplay of this racing simulator is widely praised for its realism, engaging mechanics, and impressive graphics, making it a top choice for sim racing enthusiasts. Players appreciate the depth of the gameplay, including detailed car setups and a variety of racing conditions, although some note issues with AI behavior and multiplayer connectivity. Overall, the game offers a challenging yet rewarding experience, particularly for those willing to invest time in mastering its mechanics.

The game's stability has received mixed reviews, with many players reporting frequent bugs, glitches, and freezes, particularly when using specific hardware setups like steering wheels. While some users have noted improvements and a generally smooth experience on high-end systems, others have experienced significant issues that hinder gameplay, especially in career mode and multiplayer. Overall, the game is seen as a work in progress, with potential for improvement through future updates.

The game lacks a traditional story, with most reviews highlighting that it primarily consists of a series of races against AI without any narrative elements, cutscenes, or character development. While some players appreciate the career progression and racing mechanics, many express a desire for a more engaging story mode to enhance the overall experience. Overall, the focus remains heavily on gameplay rather than storytelling.

The atmosphere in the game is widely praised for its immersive and realistic qualities, enhanced by stunning graphics, exceptional sound design, and dynamic environmental effects. Players appreciate the engaging racing ambiance, particularly during competitive play, with detailed audio that captures the essence of real racing experiences. Overall, the game successfully creates a captivating atmosphere that elevates the driving experience, especially in VR and during varied weather conditions.

Players frequently express that grinding in the game is a time-consuming and often tedious process, requiring significant effort to achieve competitive setups and progress. Many suggest that it feels like one would need "a second life" to fully engage with the grinding aspects, highlighting the challenge and commitment involved. While some appreciate the authenticity and rewards of the grind, others find it frustrating and overly demanding.

The humor in the game is described as hit-or-miss, with some players finding amusement in quirky moments and glitches, while others feel the humor is overshadowed by gameplay frustrations. Many comments highlight funny coincidences and amusing aspects of the game's design, but there are also critiques about the lack of engaging humor during intense gameplay. Overall, the humor seems to be a mixed bag, providing some light-hearted moments amidst a more serious racing experience.

The music aspect of the game receives mixed reviews; while some players enjoy the raw and visceral engine sounds, they find the in-game soundtrack lacking, often recommending external music like eurobeat mixes to enhance the experience. The menu music is noted as enjoyable, but overall, the absence of a built-in racing soundtrack leaves some players wanting more.

Players express a strong emotional connection to the game, feeling immersed in the role of a GT driver and appreciating the depth of challenges like endurance racing. However, frustrations arise from technical issues, such as poor physics and a lack of multiplayer engagement, which detract from the overall experience. The emotional highs of racing are often tempered by these shortcomings, leading to a mixed sentiment among users.

Reviews indicate a strong dissatisfaction with the monetization strategies of certain racing games, particularly criticizing iRacing for its perceived predatory practices. In contrast, some players appreciate the straightforward approach of Assetto Corsa, which limits purchases to what is available on Steam, though concerns about misleading marketing and in-game advertising persist. Overall, there is a sentiment that monetization often detracts from the core gameplay experience.

While the absence of mods in ACC is noted, players feel that the game's overall quality, especially with the base game and all DLC, provides substantial replay value. The addition of racing against real people significantly enhances the experience, making it much more engaging and enjoyable, contributing to its high replayability.