‘F1’ 24 is as Good as It Gets (A Review)

In recent years, Formula One has struggled to capture the excitement it once had. With Red Bull’s dominance, the races have often felt like mere processions, and fans have been left craving more thrilling experiences. Enter F1 24, the latest game from Codemasters and EA Sports, which aims to bring some of that high-octane racing excitement to the digital realm.

F1 24 continues the tradition of delivering a high-quality Formula One simulation. The game features all the official F1 teams and circuits, as well as the previous year’s F2 championship. It retains familiar elements from past games, focusing on refining what already works well rather than introducing groundbreaking innovations.

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Codemasters has consistently excelled with its F1 Career Modes, and F1 24 is no exception. Players can once again build their team in the My Team mode, though this year’s iteration offers only minor changes and limited customisation options. Other career modes are present, including the traditional route of starting in F2 or joining an existing F1 team, and the two-player career mode for those who want to race with friends. This year, the new Driver Recognition System and the option to take on an existing driver’s career add some fresh angles, although the overall experience remains familiar.

The game also introduces the Challenge Career mode, where players compete to top online leaderboards, adding a competitive edge without requiring direct player-versus-player racing. While it may not captivate hardcore F1 fans, it offers a fresh twist on the career mode.

F1 24 caters to a range of players with various gameplay options. The F1 World mode offers a gamified approach to the F1 experience, focusing on objectives and upgrades. Though purists might find it lacking in authenticity, it adds an extra layer of fun for those seeking a change of pace.

The game is not without its drawbacks. The absence of the story mode from previous entries is noticeable, and some players might be put off by the in-game purchases for cosmetic items. Nonetheless, F1 24 excels in delivering a compelling racing experience with smooth handling and improved tyre degradation. The updated graphics, including refreshed driver models and tracks, enhance the overall presentation.

However, there are a few issues that need addressing. Audio glitches, such as incorrect gap information, can break immersion, and the driver AI sometimes suffers from aggressive behaviour and missed opportunities, which can be frustrating.

Overall, F1 24 is a solid entry in the series. While it may not be the most exciting update, it provides a satisfying racing experience for both new and returning players. It’s a worthwhile addition for fans of the franchise, though those who have played recent versions may not find it essential. Codemasters continues to demonstrate its skill in crafting top-tier racing games, even if this latest offering doesn’t quite revolutionise the genre.