F1 23 is an exciting upcoming racing video game developed by Codemasters and published by EA Sports. As the sixteenth installment in the F1 series by Codemasters, it holds the official licenses for the 2023 Formula One and Formula 2 championships. Set to be released on various platforms including Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Linux, the game is generating significant anticipation among racing enthusiasts. The official release date is scheduled for June 16, 2023.
Gameplay
F1 23 brings back the popular story mode, Braking Point, which was first introduced in F1 2021. Fans will be delighted to see the return of well-known characters from the previous installment, such as the main antagonist, Devon Butler, and the protagonist, Aiden Jackson. Additionally, Casper Akkerman, a veteran, and now-retired driver, is making a comeback. To add to the excitement, a new character named Callie Mayer will be introduced. The game also includes a narrative mode featuring live-action scenes, similar to the acclaimed Grid Legends.
The driving physics in F1 23 has undergone significant improvements, ensuring a more realistic and immersive experience for players. One notable addition is the option to set a 35% race distance, providing players with more flexibility in their gameplay. Red flags, which were last seen in F1 2014, make a comeback, further enhancing the authenticity of the racing experience.
Another exciting feature is the "F1 World," which expands on the "F1 Life" feature of F1 22. This mode integrates all the game modes and includes a battle pass system. Furthermore, F1 23 introduces a safety rating for online players, similar to systems seen in iRacing and Gran Turismo titles.
Notable Additions and Circuits
The My Team Icons pack in F1 23 includes several new additions, such as 1992 World Champion Nigel Mansell, W Series driver Jamie Chadwick, former Williams driver Pastor Maldonado, and former Toyota reserve driver and Sauber and Caterham driver Kamui Kobayashi. These iconic figures add depth and variety to the game, allowing players to immerse themselves in the rich history of Formula One.
In terms of circuits, F1 23 offers an impressive lineup. The game features the Losail International Circuit, home of the Qatar Grand Prix, as well as the newly added Las Vegas Strip Circuit, which will host the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix. Additionally, players can enjoy racing on the Circuit Paul Ricard (French Grand Prix), Shanghai International Circuit (Chinese Grand Prix), and the Algarve International Circuit (Portuguese Grand Prix), circuits that were not initially included in the 2023 schedule.
Development and Release
The development of F1 23 marks a fresh start for the series, as teased by the developers on March 1, 2023. Codemasters, known for their work on the F1 series since F1 2009, have partnered with EA Sports once again to bring fans an exceptional gaming experience. Building up the excitement, a new trailer introducing the Konnersport Butler Global Racing Team was released on April 28, 2023, followed by the official trailer on May 3, 2023. Prior to the official reveal, a closed beta was made available, allowing selected players to get a sneak peek into the game.
The game features two covers, with Max Verstappen gracing the Champions' Edition cover, and Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton, and Lando Norris appearing on the standard edition cover. This showcases the presence of top Formula One drivers and adds to the appeal of the game for fans.
The highly anticipated release of F1 23 is scheduled for June 16, 2023, on multiple platforms including Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Linux. However, players who opt for the Champions Edition will have the opportunity to dive into the game three days earlier, on June 13, 2023.