In a significant shift within the realm of racing video games, the FIA has unveiled a new partnership with Nacon, marking the return of the World Rally Championship (WRC) gaming series set to launch in 2027. This announcement comes shortly after the conclusion of the FIA’s licensing agreement with Electronic Arts’ Codemasters, a studio renowned for its contributions to the racing genre.
New Beginnings for WRC Gaming
Arne Dirks, the chief marketing officer for the FIA World Rally Championship, expressed enthusiasm about the new collaboration, stating, “After a comprehensive evaluation, we are delighted to have reached an agreement with Nacon.” This partnership aims to revitalize the WRC gaming experience, promising an “all-new WRC games series” that will cater to both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
Nacon, which has previously developed titles such as Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown, has secured exclusive rights to create WRC games for both PC and consoles over the next six seasons. The first installment of this new series is anticipated to hit the market in 2027, generating excitement among racing enthusiasts.
While the transition from Codemasters has left some fans feeling uncertain, there is a mixed sentiment regarding Kylotonn, the studio that may take the reins for development. Historically, Kylotonn’s WRC games have garnered a range of reviews, with WRC 7 achieving a “very positive” rating and the more recent WRC 10 receiving “mostly positive” feedback on platforms like Steam.
- WRC 7: Very Positive Rating
- WRC 10: Mostly Positive Rating
Community reactions vary, with some expressing disappointment over the departure from Codemasters, a name synonymous with high-quality racing games. However, others advocate for Kylotonn, noting their progress in improving game quality over time. One Reddit user remarked, “Their games were getting quite good. The only thing you don’t get is the full AAA polish that Codemasters could provide. But it’s good to have something given how EA is giving up on rally racing.”
Another user shared a tempered optimism regarding Nacon’s involvement, stating that Kylotonn’s previous WRC titles were “okay-to-good and getting better with every new release.” This sentiment reflects a cautious hope for the future of the WRC gaming series as it embarks on this new chapter.
