After three years in early access, iRacing is launching a rebranded DRAG Outer Zones this Autumn called ExoCross.
Image Credit: iRacing.com
DRAG Outer Zones is a futuristic off-road racing game that has been in early access on Steam since 2020. Featuring a unique physic model called 4-way contact patch traction technology, it certainly has promise. iRacing saw that promise in 2021 when it bought out the studio developing the title, Orontes Games.
Today, the title is undergoing a rebranding and preparing for release in Autumn of 2023 under a new name, ExoCross. Here's all you need to know about the title coming to PC and consoles this year.
What is ExoCross?
ExoCross is a new title emerging from the DRAG Outer Zones early access program on Steam. Its unique physics model simulates in great detail the contact a car has with the road using soft-body mechanics. This ties in with the title's niche futuristic off-road art style to make for a seemingly unrivalled experience.In its current early access form, players can enjoy time trial modes both in the form of single player special events and multiplayer leader board sessions. But upon full release, it will feature full AI functionality enabling players to compete in quick races and full championships. If the team that created iRacing's AI contributed to this title's, it should make for a brilliant racing experience.
Compared to its DRAG Outer Zones version, ExoCross will also implement new vehicle classes and locations making for greater variety. These are all off-road vehicles built in a futuristic style. Scenery and locations seemingly range from Hot Wheels-inspired sky-high circuits to vast country-side mountain passes.
An Autumn release
It is announced that ExoCross will release in Autumn of 2023. Whether that means early-September or late-November is as yet unknown. What we do know is that the game will release on Steam, replacing the DRAG Outer Zones early access. Those that purchased the early access will get a free upgrade to the full title. But it will also launch on consoles at the same time. As one would expect, the list includes PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S and Series X.Following on from iRacing's previous standalone release, World of Outlaws: Dirt Racing, we are excited about this new game. The early access provides a good base whilst iRacing's involvement later on in development can only improve the title.
What do you make of ExoCross?
