After the lackluster F1 22, fans of the franchise were left wondering if Codemasters could redeem themselves with their latest installment, F1 23. Fortunately, this game not only delivers but exceeds expectations, offering a triple threat of gaming experiences that cater to different types of players. From the engaging Braking Point story mode to the immersive career mode and the unique F1 World mode, F1 23 has something for everyone.
Let’s start with Braking Point, the captivating story mode that takes center stage in F1 23. While some may argue that there are limitations to creating a compelling F1 storyline, Codemasters manages to inject originality into this narrative. The characters are deeper, more convincing, and evoke a stronger emotional response than ever before. The improved facial expressions contribute to the overall realism, although they still hover on the edge of the Uncanny Valley. What sets this story mode apart is the ability to control different characters at various points, allowing players to gain a fresh perspective and empathize with seemingly antagonistic individuals. The writing is strong, seamlessly blending the fictional soap opera with the licensed F1 world and the game engine, resulting in a cohesive and immersive experience.
Moving on to the career mode, which has been refined and perfected since F1 2018, players have the option to start their own team and take on the role of both driver and manager. Natalie Pinkham’s scenes provide a fresh touch, while the core mechanics remain largely unchanged from the previous year’s outstanding game. However, three bonus tracks, including Shanghai, Paul Ricard, and Algarve, are now available from the second year onward, adding new challenges and variety to the gameplay.
The third aspect of F1 23, the F1 World mode, takes a daring departure from the traditional F1 experience. This mode introduces a Fortnite-inspired concept with a ‘Podium Pass’, loot with varying rarities, and challenges linked to the real-world F1 calendar. Although this may raise some eyebrows, the mode proves to be more logical and enjoyable than its predecessor. Customizing your own F1 car, personalizing your avatar’s clothing, and building up your tech rating from 100 to 1,000 offer a unique twist to the game. However, the implementation of upgrades, team members, and stickers can be slightly convoluted and may require some time to fully grasp. The mode’s online elements and additional gameplay options are unlocked after a few hours of play, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all players.
When it comes to the on-track action, F1 23 impresses with its fast, precise, and technical racing mechanics. The AI drivers’ behavior has been improved, resulting in closer and more competitive races. You’ll find yourself strategizing and managing your overtakes, tire choices, and race tactics to maximize your performance. The game offers a realistic recreation of the sport, capturing both its positives and negatives.
Graphically, F1 23 is a feast for the eyes. Even on High settings with a mid-range gaming setup, the game looks stunning, with smooth performance and sharp visuals. While ray-tracing may require more powerful hardware to maintain a consistent frame rate, the game remains visually impressive. The addition of the Las Vegas track, as well as tweaks to existing tracks, further enhance the overall visual experience.
In terms of sound design, F1 23 delivers an immersive audio landscape. The roar of the engines, the screech of tires, and the ambient crowd noise create an authentic atmosphere that pulls you deeper into the world of Formula 1.
F1 23 is a triumph on the tracks. With its engaging story mode, refined career mode, unique F1 World mode, and impressive gameplay, the game offers an unparalleled experience for fans of the franchise. While it can feel a bit serious at times, F1 23 more than makes up for it with its attention to detail and comprehensive package. Codemasters has undoubtedly delivered a phenomenal game that sets a new benchmark for the F1 series. Buckle up and get ready to race in F1 23, a game that leaves its competitors in the dust!
