Key Highlights
- F1 24 by EA Sports introduces a new dynamic handling system, aiming to enhance realism and accessibility for a wide range of racers.
- The newly innovated Driver Career mode offers the first major overhaul in years, with deeper management and interactive features.
- Visual and audio upgrades across platforms like PlayStation and Xbox Series X boost immersion, especially at iconic Grand Prix venues.
- The game’s physics engine and AI have sparked discussion in the FIA Formula One community, with both praise and criticism for changes.
- Authenticity is pushed to new heights, yet glitches and some removed content temper the overall experience.
Introduction
EA Sports returns to the track with F1 24, the official video game of the FIA Formula One World Championship, setting high expectations as both a technical showcase and a deep racing sim. Built on Codemasters’ proven formula, this year’s entry promises innovation with a revamped driver career, a bold new handling model, and grand prix weekends brimming with authenticity. The result is a game that aims to satisfy both hardcore fans and newcomers, striving to replicate the electric intensity of the world championship in digital form.
F1 24 Review: Breaking Down the Good, the Bad, and the Impressive
With the 2024 FIA Formula One World Championship in full swing, F1 24 seeks to capture the strategy, spectacle, and unpredictability of every grand prix. The new season brings with it significant updates: a reengineered dynamic handling system, the most comprehensive driver career mode yet, and a focus on visual polish. However, not all changes land as smoothly as a Red Bull pit stop. Let’s explore where F1 24 races ahead, where it slips on the grid, and the moments that genuinely impress.
Let’s break down four core aspects: the controversial new physics engine, the major career mode upgrades, the game’s audiovisual presentation, and the glitches and AI quirks that have kept the community talking.
1. The New Physics Engine: Realism or Letdown?
F1 24’s most publicized feature is the new EA Sports Dynamic Handling System, a complete overhaul intended to reflect each car’s performance and adapt to your personal driving style. On paper, this sounds like a win—handling is now influenced by tire wear, aerodynamics, and track conditions, factors that Red Bull’s Max Verstappen or Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton would recognize from real circuits.
In practice, the changes are a double-edged sword. On a controller, the cars are markedly more forgiving, allowing you to recover from mistakes—in dry or wet conditions. While this opens the door for newcomers, many sim racing veterans have criticized the forgiving grip and lack of challenge, especially compared to previous entries. As one reviewer noted, “The F1 games are meant to be distributed widely… this game is good for the typical casual sim racer.” The realism is there in detail, but some purists miss the edgier handling of old.
How does F1 24 compare to previous F1 games in terms of realism? The answer depends on your expectations: the new physics engine is authentic in how tire compounds, fuel loads, and aero setups impact the car, yet the actual driving demand is notably less punishing, especially on a gamepad.
2. Career Mode Upgrades and Innovations
Career mode in F1 24 is the mode’s first major update in years, introducing a newly innovated Driver Career structure. The most exciting addition is the ability to play as any of the official FIA Formula One drivers, a selection of F2 stars, or even legends like Michael Schumacher and Ayrton Senna. You can step into the shoes of your favorite team or replace a current grid member, injecting unique events and high-stakes objectives into each season.
A new reputation system, R&D choices aligned with your personal driving style, and a contract negotiation feature add depth and strategy. The mode is also more interactive, letting players face mid-season offers, pole position challenges, and rivalries shaped by your stats and on-track performance.
Here’s a detailed look at what’s (finally) new:
|
Feature |
F1 24 Career Mode |
Previous F1 Games |
|---|---|---|
|
Playable Drivers |
All 20 F1, F2, and Legends |
Custom/My Team only |
|
Reputation System |
Dynamic, impacts contracts/R&D |
Minor or static |
|
R&D Customization |
Tailored to team strengths, driver style |
Mostly linear upgrades |
|
Interactive Negotiations |
Mid-season offers and meetings |
Limited to end-of-season |
|
Co-op Career |
Fully supported, driver pairings/rivalries |
Limited, less dynamic |
|
Unique Events |
Team objectives, rival challenges |
Standard race calendar |
What are the biggest changes in F1 24’s career mode? The biggest shifts are the flexible driver selection, the deepened R&D strategy, reputation-driven contracts, and ongoing interactive events that make every season feel different.
3. Visuals, Sound, and Authentic F1 Atmosphere
F1 24 makes a strong case for best-in-class visuals among racing sims, especially on PlayStation and Xbox Series X. Tracks like Abu Dhabi and the iconic Monaco Grand Prix gleam with improved lighting, weather effects, and photorealistic detail. Car models—think Ferrari, Red Bull, and Mercedes—are nearly indistinguishable from television broadcasts, right down to the glint of sunlight on carbon fiber.
The frame rate remains consistently high, and Codemasters’ decision to stick with the Ego Engine ensures stable performance across most hardware. Audio design also impresses: The scream of hybrid power units, the thud of curbs, and real-life team radio chatter pull you into the world championship’s atmosphere. Even the ambient sounds—crowd roars, pit crew calls—enhance the immersion.
Yet, the uncanny valley lurks in some driver avatars, and facial animations sometimes lack humanity. Despite this, the sound and graphics keep you engrossed from the grid to the checkered flag.
4. Gameplay Glitches, AI Issues, and Community Criticism
Not all is smooth racing in F1 24. Community members have taken to social media to spotlight recurring glitches and AI problems that disrupt the experience on every platform, from PC to Xbox Series X. While the game’s stats-driven systems are robust, several issues persist:
- Setup menus can stutter or freeze, sometimes making multiplayer setup a headache.
- AI behavior ranges from overly passive to “dangerously aggressive,” with incidents of bizarre pit maneuvers and unpredictable blocking.
- Occasional race session bugs, like AI failing to leave the garage or random order assignments, can break immersion.
These issues, though frustrating, have not overshadowed the game’s achievements for most players. However, long-term fans and competitive racers are vocal about wanting patches—especially for AI logic and steering feel. As one critic put it, “There’s definitely room for improvement with the AI.” For now, patience is required as Codemasters addresses feedback.
Conclusion
In conclusion, F1 24 delivers a thrilling experience that blends realism with innovation, while also leaving room for improvement. The game’s new physics engine enhances the driving experience, providing a deeper sense of immersion for players. Career mode upgrades invite both longtime fans and newcomers to engage with the franchise, but some gameplay glitches and AI issues need addressing. With stunning visuals and authentic sound design, F1 24 captures the essence of Formula 1 racing, making it a commendable addition to the series. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, there’s something here for everyone. Dive into the world of F1 24 and experience the speed and strategy for yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is F1 24 worth buying for longtime fans and newcomers?
For both seasoned EA Sports F1 gamers and newcomers, F1 24 offers an accessible yet deep experience. Its innovated driver career mode, engaging grand prix weekends, and appearances by stars like Lewis Hamilton make chasing high scores and podiums rewarding, though veterans may find subtle changes rather than a revolution.
2. How does F1 24 compare to previous F1 games in terms of realism?
With its new physics engine, F1 24 delivers a more authentic portrayal of dynamic handling and car performance, adapting to your personal driving style and grid strategy. While realism is improved in tire and aero modeling, the actual challenge is reduced—especially for players using controllers.
3. What are the biggest changes in F1 24’s career mode?
The newly innovated driver career mode in F1 24 introduces enhanced stats tracking, interactive features, and unique events. You can now play as your favorite team driver or a legend, unlock career milestones, and navigate contract negotiations, making every career season distinct and engaging.