Gamers Welcome at 37th America’s Cup
The America’s Cup yachting event is taking a leap into the virtual world with the launch of its official simulation video game, AC Sailing, along with its first-ever e-sports world championship, America’s Cup E-series.
AC Sailing is developed from the same physics engine used in the simulators that America’s Cup teams train with to enhance racing tactics and recreate race scenarios, as well as develop and test design ideas and iterations for their race yachts. The game is the culmination of over 10 years of research and development by Emirates Team New Zealand
By making it available, the event seeks heighten public engagement with the oldest trophy in international sports.
“Gamers will get to experience America’s Cup sailing as close to reality as possible like never before,” said Grant Dalton, CEO of America’s Cup Event. “We’re thrilled to bring this innovation legacy into the virtual world, elevating the role of sailing within the e-sports ecosystem.”
AC Sailing lets players take command of the foiling AC40 yachts and race against others in online races, as well as honing their skills in time trials and practice modes. The game will feature real-world locations such as Barcelona, the host venue of the 37th America’s Cup, and authentic liveries from the iconic AC40 America’s Cup yachts.
The mechanics of the game have been designed to mimic those on the water, and features a comprehensive tutorial and several aids to allow everyone the chance to enjoy improving their skills up to the level of an America’s Cup sailor and ultimately the opportunity to qualify for the America’s Cup E- Series, a new pathway to the oldest yachting competition.
The America’s Cup E-Series will allow players from around the globe to have the chance to race against each other and claim their place among the America’s Cup legends. The E-series will consist of Online Qualifiers and a Grand Final taking place in Barcelona in September, with exact dates to be determined.
“We think there is potential for the best AC Sailing players to step out of the gaming room and onto the AC40 in real life- just like the Women & Youth sailors have been doing in training for the Puig Women’s America’s Cup and the UniCredit Youth America’s Cup,” said Emirates Team New Zealand’s Chief Technical Officer Dan Bernasconi
For more information about AC Sailing: https://www.acsailing.com/