In this F1 24 review, explore how the game brings thrilling racing action but falls short of expectations with key gameplay and presentation issues that keep it off the grid.

The F1 series has long been a favorite for racing enthusiasts, offering an authentic Formula 1 experience filled with high-speed thrills, precision driving, and nail-biting competition.

As F1 24 hits the gaming circuits, fans are eager to see what new innovations and improvements Codemasters has brought to the table.

Unfortunately, while F1 24 retains the core excitement of Formula 1 racing, a few key issues keep it from crossing the finish line with flying colors.

In this review, we’ll explore the highs and lows of F1 24, from its impressive visuals and immersive racing mechanics to the flaws that prevent it from being a true champion.

1. Impressive Visuals and Realism

One of the first things that strikes you about F1 24 is its stunning visual presentation. The game continues the series’ tradition of delivering highly realistic graphics that capture the intensity and beauty of Formula 1 racing.

From the sun glinting off the cars’ aerodynamic surfaces to the meticulously detailed tracks, F1 24 excels in bringing the sport’s spectacle to life.

The attention to detail in the car models, especially with the current F1 designs, is nothing short of impressive. The circuits themselves are faithfully recreated, and the weather system adds an extra layer of challenge with dynamic rain effects, wet track conditions, and changing visibility.

These visual enhancements make the racing experience feel more immersive, especially for players using high-end gaming setups or virtual reality (VR) compatibility. However, despite its visual polish, F1 24 stumbles in some areas.

While the graphics are sharp, the frame rate drops occasionally during intense moments, such as during pile-ups or complex track sections. These dips can affect the overall flow of the race and detract from the otherwise immersive experience.

2. Authentic Racing Mechanics and Driving Feel

Codemasters has always prided itself on delivering authentic racing mechanics, and F1 24 is no exception. The game offers an exhilarating driving experience that accurately reflects the speed and precision required to compete in Formula 1.

Handling has been finely tuned, and players will feel the difference in grip, weight, and aerodynamics as they race through the game’s various circuits.

The physics system captures the realism of Formula 1 driving, from the delicate balance of tire wear and fuel management to mastering tight corners at breakneck speeds.

Players who enjoy a true-to-life simulation will appreciate the depth and complexity offered by the game’s handling mechanics.

For newcomers or casual players, the game provides plenty of assist options to make the experience more accessible without compromising the challenge for hardcore racing fans.

That said, F1 24 could do more to innovate beyond its predecessors. While the core mechanics remain solid, there’s a sense of familiarity that may disappoint long-time fans hoping for fresh gameplay elements.

Features like the AI system, while competent, don’t always offer the adaptive or competitive racing experiences seen in other modern racing games, leaving some races feeling predictable.

3. Career Mode – Engaging but Uninspired

Career Mode has always been one of the biggest draws of the F1 series, giving players the opportunity to build their own racing career from the ground up.

In F1 24, this mode remains enjoyable, allowing you to experience the highs and lows of an F1 driver’s career, including working your way up through the ranks, negotiating contracts, and managing team dynamics.

However, while Career Mode offers solid gameplay, it feels somewhat stagnant compared to previous installments. The narrative and progression structure are largely unchanged, and there’s a noticeable lack of new features or innovations to keep things fresh.

Many fans were hoping for deeper team management options or a more immersive story-driven experience, but F1 24 plays it safe in these areas.

The customization options, such as designing your own car livery and tailoring your character’s appearance, are decent but feel limited in scope.

More extensive personalization could have gone a long way in making the Career Mode feel more unique and tailored to individual players’ preferences.

4. Multiplayer and Esports Integration

Multiplayer remains a crucial part of the F1 experience, and F1 24 offers a wide range of online racing options for players looking to test their skills against others around the world.

The game’s ranked matchmaking system is functional, though it could be more refined to ensure fair competition across skill levels. Racing with others online is generally smooth, with minimal lag or connection issues, but matchmaking times can be longer than expected.

Esports integration continues to be a key focus for F1 24, with official events and competitive seasons that allow players to participate in online tournaments.

However, some aspects of the multiplayer system, such as in-game communication and spectator modes, feel underdeveloped.

The community features could benefit from more robust tools to encourage player interaction and involvement in the broader esports ecosystem.

5. Audio and Sound Design

The audio experience in F1 24 by Katell Keineg complements the immersive visuals with detailed sound effects that bring the racetrack to life. The roar of the engines, the screeching of tires, and the crowd noise all add to the feeling of being in the thick of the race.

The sound design is particularly well-executed when racing in different weather conditions, with rain pattering on the car and tires sliding across wet surfaces.

However, the voice acting in certain game modes, such as Career Mode, feels somewhat generic and lacks the emotional weight that could elevate the narrative.

More dynamic and varied commentary or team radio interactions could enhance the immersion and add tension to pivotal race moments.

Conclusion: Close, But Off the Grid

F1 24 offers a thrilling and visually stunning Formula 1 racing experience, with well-crafted mechanics that capture the essence of the sport. However, despite its strengths, the game falls short in terms of innovation and consistency.

With familiar features, occasional performance issues, and a lack of significant evolution in Career Mode, F1 24 feels more like an incremental update than a revolutionary entry in the series.

For dedicated fans of the franchise or those looking for an authentic Formula 1 simulation, F1 24 is still a solid choice.

However, players hoping for a game that pushes the boundaries of the series might find themselves wishing for more. While F1 24 comes close to delivering a knockout performance, it ultimately remains just off the grid.