Codemasters’ F1 24: A Downgrade or Worth the Hype?
The latest installment in Codemasters’ official Formula One games series, F1 24, was released on May 31, 2024, with a price tag of $70/£60. Developed by Codemasters and published by Electronic Arts, F1 24 has received mixed reviews from fans and critics alike. While last year’s F1 23 was praised for its compelling single-player story mode, Drive To Survive-esque, F1 24 falls short in this aspect. The absence of the story mode leaves players feeling like they’ve been there, done that, with the new career mode also lacking innovation. Despite improvements in handling and realism, the gameplay feels less polished, with AI difficulties unbalanced and race engineers providing frustrating feedback. However, the game still excels in fast and responsive driving on real tracks, with an emphasis on assuming the role of real drivers.
F1 24: Career Mode Revamped but Still Lacking
One of the key features of F1 24 is the revamped career mode, focusing on the player’s reputation as a driver within the team and compared to rivals. Players can now compete against iconic past drivers like Ayrton Senna and James Hunt, adding a new level of excitement to the game. The career mode also introduces new rivalries and secret meetings with other teams, allowing players to make strategic decisions that impact their reputation and opportunities within the game. However, while the career mode offers new challenges and opportunities for advancement, some players may find the micro-quests and busywork tasks mid-GP to be repetitive and uninspiring. Despite these drawbacks, the career mode adds depth and complexity to the overall gameplay experience.
Is F1 24 Worth the Investment?
With advanced graphics and optimized gameplay, F1 24 offers an immersive racing experience for fans of the sport. Players can enjoy realistic handling and detailed environments, with the option to play as iconic past drivers and compete in career mode challenges. However, the absence of a compelling story mode and the introduction of optional VIP passes and Pitcoin currencies for in-game purchases may deter some players. Additionally, the game’s pricing and lack of support for Steam Deck at present may impact its overall appeal to consumers. While F1 24 delivers on certain aspects of gameplay and visuals, its overall value and innovation compared to previous installments remain questionable.