Codemasters has long been recognised as one of the most respected developers in the world of racing simulation games. Known for their attention to detail and deep understanding of what makes both track and off-road racing thrilling, the UK-based studio has built a solid legacy. While some of their titles have received mixed reactions, few can deny their influence on the racing genre.
Under the ownership of Electronic Arts (EA), Codemasters had the potential to expand its racing portfolio even further. However, for fans of dust-filled, off-road competition, the journey has ended. In an official statement, Codemasters confirmed that it will no longer develop rally racing games.
This marks the end of the road for beloved franchises like World Rally Championship (WRC), Colin McRae Rally, and DIRT, all of which helped define the studio’s identity over the years. The decision follows the conclusion of Codemasters’ licensing agreement with the WRC, which will not be renewed.
“Our WRC partnership was a culmination of sorts for our Codemasters journey with off-road racing, spanning decades through titles like Colin McRae Rally, and DiRT. We’ve provided a home for every rally enthusiast, striving tirelessly to push the boundaries and deliver the exhilarating thrill of driving on the ragged edge. We’ve brought together incredibly talented racing developers, worked with some of the sport’s icons, and had the opportunity to share our love of rallying,” said the statement.
The studio’s final rally game, EA Sports WRC, was released in 2023 and received a notable content update titled Hard Chargers. That title now stands as the last chapter in Codemasters’ rally legacy. Codemasters has reassured fans that EA Sports WRC will remain available for both veteran rally enthusiasts and newcomers to enjoy.
The studio expressed its hope that players will continue to find joy in the game, given the passion and craftsmanship poured into its development. Going forward, Codemasters will shift its focus exclusively to its flagship F1 racing series, which continues to evolve with new entries on the horizon. While rally racing may no longer be in the future, the studio remains committed to delivering top-tier racing experiences in the world of Formula One.
