rFactor 2 is a realistic racing simulation from Studio 397, designed for both single-player racing and competition with other players. Its mixed-class road racing puts different kinds of cars on the same track, while vehicle upgrades can change both performance and appearance. Players can race against AI opponents whose strength, aggression, and behavior can be defined, or take their cars online and compete directly with others.
Its defining texture comes from conditions that evolve during a session. A full day-night cycle changes the lighting, while rain can leave puddles and a drying racing line. As cars circulate, rubber builds up and alters grip; the track’s real-road technology also changes surface grip with traffic. Tire damage, complex aerodynamics, and a detailed tire model add further consequences to driving and setup choices. Races can be organized by laps, time, or both, and the simulation supports full-day endurance events with driver swaps in multiplayer.
The format ranges from solo races against AI to multiplayer events, with dedicated-server support and options to add AI to online games. Community-made cars, tracks, and plugins can extend the simulation, and Steam Workshop support is available for installing cars and tracks.