Black Angel Team - Notizie

Le Mans Ultimate V1.2 Update: Simulator Revolution with New Features, Physics, and Enhanced Online Racing

The V1.2 update for Le Mans Ultimate (LMU), released on December 9th, represents one of the most significant expansions for the Studio 397 simulator. Beyond the introduction of the second part of the ELMS pack, the update brings deep, fundamental changes affecting driving physics, graphical performance, and online racing integrity.

Driving Realism: Physics and Tires

The overhaul of the physics model is the core of the update, focused on implementing key functionalities of the simulation engine, particularly concerning the road surface (RealRoad) and tires.

• The "Wet Line" Phenomenon: The most revolutionary feature concerns track behavior in the rain. The rubber laid down on the ideal dry racing line, which provides grip in normal conditions, dissolves when it rains, turning into the most slippery part of the track. This actively forces drivers to search for alternative lines with less rubber, mimicking real-world endurance wet driving with exceptional realism.

• Thermal Management and Tires: Tire models for the LMP2, LMP3, and all GT3 categories have been revisited. The system now ensures more consistent warming parameters and improved behavior, especially in cold ambient temperatures. Heat propagation from the brakes to the wheel rim and consequently to the tire has also been implemented.

Performance and Graphical Optimization

Studio 397 has invested in deep optimization to improve game performance without compromising visual fidelity.

• Texture Streaming: The introduction of new Texture Streaming technology allows drivers to utilize higher-quality textures, even on systems with limited VRAM. Texture resolution dynamically increases as objects get closer, reducing memory impact.

• Miscellaneous Improvements: Improved graphics optimization when cars are retired in race sessions and in the garage. Increased rates of dirt buildup in the rain and faster windscreen cleaning rates during pit stops.

Online Integrity and New Competitive Features

The V1.2 update reinforces the commitment to a safe and professional online racing environment.

• Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) Integration: A crucial step to combat cheating. EAC blocks attempts to manipulate memory and requires the service to be active to join multiplayer servers.

• LiveSteward and Driver Badges: The pioneering LiveSteward system has been introduced to automatically assess incidents in races, with the future authority to assign penalties for dangerous re-entries or avoidable contact. Driver Badges have also been added to indicate other players' recent conduct and online experience.

• Online Team Championships: Team Championships are introduced, allowing squads to compete across multiple races for a title. This system will also be used for Le Mans Virtual qualifiers.

• Engineer Mode and Expanded Penalty System: Players can now invite LMU-owning friends as dedicated "Engineers" to support them in Special Events and Online Championships. The penalty system has been expanded with the addition of time penalties (seconds to be added to the next pit stop or final race time), providing a more nuanced alternative to a simple drive-through.

In summary, V1.2 is not just a patch but a foundational and content update that solidifies Le Mans Ultimate as a top-tier endurance simulator.

https://lemansultimate.com/