Review by Jon Donnis
"F1 24," the seventeenth entry in the Codemasters' Formula One series, and the official video game of the 2024 FIA Formula One World Championship, introduces some noteworthy updates while carrying forward the legacy of its predecessors. With licenses for the 2024 Formula One and Formula 2 championships, the game aims to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience for racing enthusiasts.
One of the standout features of F1 24 is the revamped career mode. This year's iteration transforms the mode into a role-playing experience, where every action on the track influences your driver's overall rating. This update marks the first major overhaul since 2016 and adds depth to the gameplay by allowing players to manage their career trajectory actively. Performing well can lead to secretive offers from other teams, though these clandestine meetings come with the risk of losing the trust of your current team if discovered.
F1 24 allows players to explore multiple career paths. You can step into the shoes of one of the 20 real-life drivers, including popular figures like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, or you can create your own driver. Additionally, the game supports a two-player career mode, enabling friends to either compete against or cooperate with each other. The revamped challenge mode offers specific objectives in quick, regular bursts, making it a less time-consuming yet engaging option for players with limited time.
The game's new EA SPORTS Dynamic Handling System introduces significant changes to the physics, especially concerning tire and suspension models. These adjustments are supposed to make the cars feel more realistic, demanding that players manage their tires as real drivers do. While this change adds a layer of authenticity, it has been met with mixed reactions, personally I found the new handling to feel much less intuitive than previous versions.
Visually, F1 24 continues to impress with detailed car models and accurately recreated tracks. The attention to detail extends to the audio, with authentic engine sounds and team radio communications adding to the immersion. However, the graphical improvements over last year's game are incremental, which might not justify an upgrade for players who own F1 23.
One of the significant downsides of F1 24 is the implementation of the "pitcoin" microtransaction system. Items that were previously unlockable through gameplay, such as different helmets and celebrations, now require additional payment. This shift feels like a money grab from EA Sports, especially when considering the game's initial price tag of nearly £60. The continued presence of the loot-box-driven, arcade-style F1 World mode also remains divisive among fans.
At launch, F1 24 has been plagued by numerous bugs, the most prominent being handling issues with the cars. While patches are expected to address these problems, releasing such a high-profile game with significant flaws is disappointing, especially from a company with the resources of EA Sports.
F1 24 brings some commendable changes, particularly the updated career mode, which adds a fresh dynamic to the game. However, it struggles with basic elements like car handling and is marred by the introduction of microtransactions for items that were previously standard. For players who already own F1 23, the new iteration offers little incentive to upgrade. The game does have its strengths, such as the career mode, however, the overall execution falls short of expectations.
If you're a die-hard F1 fan who hasn't purchased an F1 game in the past five years, F1 24 is a decent, albeit flawed, option. For those who already own F1 23, it might be best to wait for further updates or consider sticking with the previous game. Despite some positive additions, the game's issues with handling, microtransactions, and initial bugs make it a disappointing release, earning it a score of 6 out of 10.
Out now on all formats
