Studio 397
- Open roles
- 0
- Founded
- 2016
- Employees
- 11-50
- Offices
- 1
About Studio 397
Studio 397 is a Dutch game developer and simulation technology specialist based in Apeldoorn. Established in September 2016 through a partnership between Image Space Incorporated and Luminis, the studio focuses on realistic motorsport simulation, combining racing game development with vehicle dynamics, online competition systems and commercial simulator applications. Motorsport Games acquired the company in May 2021, and it continues to operate as a development subsidiary.
The studio assumed ongoing development, community support and commercial operations for rFactor 2 from its original developer, Image Space Incorporated. Its subsequent work has included a modernized user interface, DirectX 11 and virtual reality rendering, improvements to weather and lighting, revised matchmaking and expanded manufacturer and motorsport partnerships. The platform remains an actively supported part of its portfolio.
Le Mans Ultimate, developed by Studio 397 and published by Motorsport Games, is the officially licensed game of the FIA World Endurance Championship and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It entered Early Access on February 20, 2024, and reached its Version 1.0 commercial release on July 22, 2025. The studio continues development and support for both this title and rFactor 2.
Simulation beyond standalone games
Studio 397’s technology also supports projects developed with other organizations. Its contributions to NASCAR 21: Ignition covered vehicle physics, artificial intelligence and tyre-model components. For F1 Arcade, its rFactor 2 engine underpins a bespoke commercial simulator experience developed in technical collaboration with Formula 1 and Kindred Concepts.
The company has also supplied simulation platforms and technical infrastructure for professional virtual racing, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans Virtual, Le Mans Virtual Series and Formula E competitions. Its commercial work spans full-cycle racing software development, simulation technology licensing, simulator integration and consulting for automotive manufacturers and racing teams. These activities connect its consumer racing platforms with professional motorsport, esports and location-based entertainment.
More about Studio 397
Leadership history
Marcel Offermans was the founding managing director and a Luminis Fellow. He stepped down at the end of May 2022 to establish an independent simulation project. Dom Duhan subsequently served as Head of Studio through early 2024. The research identifies Motorsport Games CEO Stephen Hood as providing active strategic leadership alongside studio project directors.
Simulation methods and collaboration
The studio's tyre simulation covers contact patches, flat spotting, tyre deformation and thermal degradation. Its Real Road system models changing track conditions through rubber accumulation and temperature effects. Collaboration with Goodyear is part of its work connecting real-world tyre expertise with virtual racing.
Origin of the name
The name commemorates the 397 laps completed by the winning Audi R15 TDI at the 2010 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Notable credits
6 creditsOffices
Where Studio 397 is based
- Apeldoorn, Gelderland, Netherlands
Apeldoorn offices
HeadquartersAbout this office
**Office** Status: active Address: Regentesselaan 11, 7316 AA Apeldoorn, Gelderland, Netherlands Registered statutory premises of the company in its headquarters city. --- **Office** Status: active Headquarters Address: Churchillplein 1, 7314 BZ Apeldoorn, Gelderland, Netherlands Public operating address for the studio's Apeldoorn headquarters, as listed on LinkedIn.
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