With its first foray into the Esports has Codemasters made its best F1 Game yet?
This year’s iteration of the series goes far beyond just keeping up with the sport. While it does return with all the new drivers, tracks and cars from the new year the game explores the F1 world in far greater depth than it has ever done before. Not only does it bring back the classic cars from F1 history but its attention to detail when portraying the F1 life is admirable, there is much more time spent on the routines and career quirks of the F1 world. The career path remains similar but with the added twists of historic car races, challenges and a much more complex car development strategy.
The new Esports portal under events adds a new dimension competitively for those who seek more of a challenge and longevity out of the game. The improved track detail and car response is commendable and gives plenty of scope for seeking out those extra tenths of performance. Feedback with a steering wheel is also greatly improved, ranking amongst the best experiences with a wheel I have had yet. In fact, the number of laps put into the Esport portal seems to have worn out some of the steering motors from constant use and violent crashes!
Audio and visual improvements are abundant across the board. Drop into a race and there is a world of difference. The background chatter in the pitlane and tannoy announcements ring out, informing us of visiting celebrities and paddock gossip. The textures on the car, elemental effects and track detail are all stunning. Starting with the track the tarmac looks much less like a strip of grey and actually takes on some character. As you drive around, be very wary of the white lines, these are not just for decoration as I found out time and time again in Monza’s sweeping Parabolica corner. Following a pack of cars, you are beset by dust motes, exhaust fumes, dirt or spray in the rain, the reality of changes in the light and condition really brings home in much greater detail the authentic experience. There still needs to be some work on the character textures and trackside graphics, but these are minor complaints for a racing simulator that does everything else so well.
Playing through the first season of a career this game feels much more complete and involving. Rather than putting in occasional races alongside the F1 calendar this game demands your attention and rewards your performance. Offering the ultimate cherry of official Esports racing positions there is more reason than ever to put yourself into the shoes of a world class racing driver.
Author: Joe, Bath Store
