French publisher Nacon has officially stepped into the spotlight as the new partner of the World Rally Championship (WRC). In an announcement that signals a significant shift in the racing game landscape, Nacon has secured exclusive rights to develop PC and console titles based on the prestigious tournament, covering the years 2027 to 2032. This development arrives shortly after Electronic Arts revealed it would be “pausing development” on its own WRC series, marking a pivotal moment in the competitive gaming arena.
Renewed Collaboration and Ambitious Vision
Nacon’s CEO, Alain Falc, expressed enthusiasm about the renewed collaboration with WRC Promoter, emphasizing the iconic nature of the license. “This iconic license provides an exceptional playground to build a highly refined driving experience that lives up to the expectations of rally fans,” he stated. Falc reflected on the fruitful partnership that has spanned from 2015 to 2023, during which Nacon worked closely with official teams and drivers, gaining invaluable insights into the intricacies of rallying.
“This new venture marks a major milestone: a fully reimagined project driven by a passionate and specialized team, with a clear ambition to elevate rally games to new heights,” he added, hinting at the innovative direction the company aims to take.
A Vision for Epic Adventures
Arne Dirks, the chief marketing officer of the FIA WRC, shared his excitement regarding the partnership, stating, “After a comprehensive evaluation, we are delighted to have reached an agreement with Nacon. Their vision for the franchise stands out, and their expertise in delivering great rally games is unquestioned.”
Dirks expressed optimism about the potential of this collaboration, suggesting that it could lead to groundbreaking developments in the realm of rally gaming. “We look forward to breaking new ground together in this collaboration, to truly turn the WRC games into epic adventures and offer gaming experiences beyond rally as we know it today,” he concluded, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating journey ahead for both Nacon and rally enthusiasts alike.
