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MONSTER

F1 2021

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of F1 2021
Item: F1 2021
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresThird Person Perspective, Simulation, Sports, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing, First Person Perspective

AvailableJul 13, 2021

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperCodemasters

Overview

Every story has a beginning in F1 2021! Enjoy the stunning new features, including the thrilling story experience 'Braking Point', two-player career, and get even closer to the grid with 'Real-Season Start'. Take your team to the top in the acclaimed ten-year 'My Team' career mode, or race head-to-head in split-screen and multiplayer. Immerse yourself in the greatest racing spectacle on the planet and race with the authentic lineup of twenty heroic drivers and ten iconic teams from the 2021 season.

Elsewhere

7.2

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

F1 2021's story mode "Braking Point" offers an engaging premise with rookie driver Aiden Jackson but falls short in execution. Critics praise its character-driven narrative and cinematic flair, likening it to other sports narratives like FIFA's Journey. However, issues like clichéd dialogue, linearity, rushed storytelling, and lack of emotional depth dominate reviews, leaving many disappointed. While it shows potential for the franchise, "Braking Point" ultimately lacks the impact and engagement needed for a truly compelling experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story mode of F1 2021, titled "Braking Point," has garnered some praise from critics for its engaging premise and character-driven narrative. Many reviewers, such as Wccftech and God is a Geek, commend the mode for its well-written story and diverse objectives, highlighting the journey of rookie driver Aiden Jackson as a compelling aspect. The cinematic presentation and character dynamics have also been noted positively, with some critics like MGG Spain and WellPlayed appreciating the human aspect of F1 that the narrative attempts to capture. The mode is seen as a significant improvement over previous story attempts in the franchise, with some reviewers drawing favorable comparisons to other narrative-driven experiences in sports games, such as FIFA's Journey. However, the consensus among critics reveals a multitude of criticisms regarding the execution of "Braking Point." Many reviewers, including Stevivor and PC Invasion, describe the narrative as frustrating, lacking depth, and filled with clichéd dialogue. Critics like Eurogamer Italy and Shacknews emphasize the linearity of the story, which limits player interaction and agency, making the experience feel scripted and superficial. The brevity of the mode has also drawn ire, with several reviewers noting that the story feels rushed or abruptly concluded, as highlighted by Hobby Consolas and TheXboxHub. Additionally, the lack of character growth and emotional depth has been a recurring theme, with many critics feeling that the narrative fails to resonate on a deeper level. Overall, while "Braking Point" in F1 2021 has been recognized for its engaging premise and potential, the execution has left many critics disappointed. The positive aspects, such as the character-driven narrative and cinematic presentation, are often overshadowed by criticisms of its linearity, lack of depth, and rushed storytelling. Critics like IGN and Gamer.nl encapsulate this sentiment, noting that while the mode adds a narrative layer to the game, it ultimately falls short of delivering a truly compelling experience. The overall consensus suggests that while "Braking Point" is a step in the right direction for the franchise, it still has significant room for improvement in crafting a more engaging and impactful story.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

F1 2021 impresses with its accessible yet deep gameplay, earning praise for improved Career and My Team modes, realistic driving mechanics, and AI enhancements. Critics celebrate new features like dual-player career mode and customizable difficulty, making it appealing for both newbies and veterans. However, some drawbacks include removed features, inconsistent AI, and a lackluster Braking Point mode that may frustrate players. Despite these issues, the game is largely seen as a strong franchise entry, successfully blending simulation and arcade elements for an engaging racing experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of F1 2021 has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, who appreciate its blend of accessibility and depth. Many reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer and IGN, noted the improvements in Career and My Team modes, which enhance the overall racing experience. Critics like SpazioGames and PlayStation Universe highlighted the realistic driving mechanics and improved AI, which contribute to a more dynamic racing environment. The introduction of new features such as the dual-player career mode, customizable difficulty settings, and enhanced controls were also praised, with GameCritics and NME emphasizing the rewarding and challenging nature of the gameplay. Overall, the game is seen as a solid continuation of the franchise, appealing to both newcomers and seasoned players alike. However, there are notable criticisms that detract from the otherwise strong gameplay experience. Hardcore Gamer pointed out the removal of key features and issues with AI that can hinder immersion. Other reviewers, such as PC Invasion, criticized the Braking Point mode for its strict progression and lack of engaging mechanics, suggesting that it may not resonate with all players. Additionally, while many noted the improvements in AI behavior, some like M3 and SpazioGames mentioned that inconsistencies in difficulty could lead to frustrating moments during races. The balance between simulation and arcade-style gameplay, while generally well-received, also drew some skepticism regarding its execution, as highlighted by Gamer.nl. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that F1 2021 offers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, with many praising its depth, accessibility, and variety of modes. While there are some criticisms regarding AI behavior and certain gameplay features, the majority of reviewers, including PlayStation LifeStyle and Digital Chumps, agree that the game successfully builds upon its predecessors while introducing new elements that enhance the racing experience. The positive feedback suggests that F1 2021 is a worthy addition to the franchise, appealing to a wide range of players and maintaining the excitement of Formula One racing.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

F1 2021 dazzles with stunning graphics and next-gen enhancements, praised for its car models and cinematic sequences. Critics laud its visuals on PS5 and Xbox Series X, but many note it lacks significant advancements over previous iterations. Concerns include frame rate drops, inconsistent quality, and technical issues like screen tearing. While some celebrate its visual brilliance, a mixed consensus reveals a need for deeper improvements to meet next-gen expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of F1 2021 have garnered a variety of positive remarks from critics, particularly regarding the enhancements made for next-gen consoles. Many reviewers, such as IGN and WellPlayed, praised the game as the best-looking F1 title to date, highlighting improvements in car models, trackside details, and realistic damage effects. Critics like God is a Geek and MondoXbox noted the impressive utilization of the PS5 and Xbox Series X hardware, showcasing high-resolution textures, ray tracing, and enhanced lighting effects that contribute to a visually stunning racing experience. Furthermore, the cinematic sequences in the Braking Point mode received commendations for their beauty and rendering quality, as pointed out by Forbes and Atomix. However, despite these positive aspects, several critics expressed disappointment with the overall visual advancements, suggesting that F1 2021 does not represent a significant leap forward compared to its predecessors. Jeuxvideo.com and Vandal pointed out that the graphics felt stagnant, with minimal updates and occasional frame rate drops during intense moments. Critics such as PlaySense and GamePro Germany noted inconsistencies in visual quality, with high-quality car models contrasted against lower-resolution environmental details. Additionally, issues like screen tearing and inconsistent ray tracing were mentioned by critics like GameSpew and Everyeye.it, detracting from the otherwise strong visual presentation. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with many acknowledging the game's visual improvements while also voicing concerns about the lack of groundbreaking advancements. While some reviews, like those from GamingBolt and COGconnected, emphasize the game's stunning visuals and immersive experience, others, such as PlayStation Country and Hardcore Gamer, highlight the need for further enhancements to fully utilize next-gen capabilities. This dichotomy suggests that while F1 2021 successfully elevates the visual experience in certain areas, it ultimately falls short of delivering a comprehensive upgrade that fans might have anticipated for a next-gen title.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

F1 2021 impresses with powerful engine sounds and immersive audio, winning praise from critics for enhancing the racing experience. However, it falls short with lackluster voice acting and commentary, plus missed opportunities like classic cars and generic collision noises. While improvements over F1 2020 are noted, critics agree there's still room for audio refinement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of F1 2021 have garnered a largely positive reception from critics across various platforms. Reviewers like IGN Japan and Hardcore Gamer praised the game for its powerful and authentic engine sounds, which significantly enhance the immersive experience of racing. Many critics, including MGG Spain and WellPlayed, highlighted the realistic audio that captures the essence of Formula racing, contributing to a more engaging gameplay experience. The DualSense controller's capabilities were also noted by TheGamer, adding an extra layer of immersion through sound. Additionally, Cultured Vultures and Xbox Achievements emphasized the variety and authenticity of engine noises, which help to create a more dynamic and realistic racing environment. However, several criticisms emerged regarding specific aspects of the sound design. A common point of contention was the quality of voice acting and commentary, which many reviewers found lacking. For instance, Hobby Consolas remarked on the repetitive nature of the commentary, while PlaySense pointed out the disparity in voice acting quality between languages, particularly criticizing the Dutch version. The absence of classic cars, which could have enriched the sound experience, was mentioned by IGN and others as a missed opportunity. Collision sounds were also noted as a downside by Hardcore Gamer and PlayStation Universe, with some describing them as generic and not matching the overall high standards set by the engine sounds. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while F1 2021 excels in sound design, particularly with its engine audio that enhances immersion, there are notable shortcomings in voice acting and commentary that detract from the overall experience. The game has made improvements compared to its predecessor, F1 2020, as noted by Game Debate and PCGamesN, but the feedback indicates that there is still room for enhancement in certain areas. Critics like Shacknews pointed out that many audio elements feel like a carryover from the previous title, suggesting that while the foundation is strong, further refinement could elevate the audio experience even more.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in F1 2021's "Braking Point" story mode is a mixed bag—critics praise its cinematic feel and character interactions, particularly noting the return of Devon Butler. However, significant flaws like poor dialogue quality, lackluster execution, and technical issues (especially with lip-syncing) mar the experience. Reviews highlight a divide: while some find it immersive and engaging, others point out critical shortcomings that undermine the game's narrative potential. Overall, it’s a commendable effort overshadowed by notable drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in F1 2021 has received a mix of positive feedback from various critics, particularly in the context of the story mode, known as "Braking Point." IGN Japan noted that the voice acting is integrated into the story mode, contributing to a cinematic feel, while Hardcore Gamer praised the quality of voice acting in "Braking Point," highlighting its enhancement of the narrative experience. Similarly, PlayStation LifeStyle and Cubed3 commended the voice acting for its ability to bring the story to life, with Cubed3 also mentioning the returning character Devon Butler as a highlight. Critics such as TheXboxHub and TierraGamer also recognized the immersive qualities of the voice acting, particularly in the interactions between characters, which added depth to the narrative. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting that detract from the overall experience. IGN Spain criticized the dialogue quality, stating it fails to engage players effectively, while MGG Spain described the voice acting in "Braking Point" as poorly executed, negatively impacting the story mode. Additionally, issues with lip-syncing in various languages, including the Italian version as mentioned by Everyeye.it and IGN Italia, indicate a lack of polish. Forbes pointed out the absence of human speech during races, suggesting a significant gap in voice acting that could have enhanced the gameplay experience. Critics like Impulsegamer and PlaySense also echoed concerns about the limited dialogue from drivers and the emotional delivery of voice performances. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a divided sentiment about the voice acting in F1 2021. While some reviews highlight the immersive and engaging aspects of the voice acting, particularly in story-driven modes, others point out significant flaws that hinder the experience. Many critics, including IGN and Eurogamer Italy, acknowledged that while the cutscenes feature decent voice acting, technical issues and inconsistent quality across different languages and modes leave much to be desired. As a result, the voice acting in F1 2021 emerges as a mixed bag, with commendable moments overshadowed by shortcomings that detract from the game's narrative potential.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

F1 2021 delivers a solid racing experience across platforms, with PS4 and PS5 receiving praise for overall stability but facing issues like AI glitches and frame drops. The Xbox Series X version shines with smooth performance but has minor graphical criticisms. While the game excels in many areas, technical issues persist, prompting hopes for future patches to enhance gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of F1 2021 has received a mix of praise and criticism across different gaming platforms. On the PlayStation 4, critics like Metro GameCentral and IGN Spain commend the game for maintaining the franchise's expected quality, with minimal technical issues reported. GameCritics also notes the absence of performance or stability issues, while IGN Japan highlights that the game performs well, despite some frame drops in high settings. On the PlayStation 5, the game is generally well-received, with GameOver.gr and Hardcore Gamer praising its smooth frame rates and reduced loading times. Many reviewers, such as GamePro Germany and PlayStation LifeStyle, report no significant bugs or crashes, indicating a solid performance. The Xbox Series X version also garners positive feedback, with COGconnected and GamingBolt noting strong technical performance and stability, alongside reduced loading times and smooth gameplay. However, there are notable negatives across all platforms. On the PS4, Gamer.nl points out technical issues related to AI behavior and safety car functionality, which can detract from the overall experience. Similarly, on the PS5, critics like Everyeye.it and Jeuxvideo.com mention issues such as screen tearing and frame rate drops, which impact the gaming experience. Moreover, Meristation criticizes the game for inheriting technical issues from previous versions. On the Xbox Series X, while most reviews are positive, Jeuxvideo.com raises concerns about frame rate issues and a lack of significant graphical upgrades, which can detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while F1 2021 performs well across platforms, there are varying degrees of technical issues that can affect gameplay. On the PS4, the game is generally stable but has some AI and functionality concerns. The PS5 version is praised for its performance but still suffers from graphical issues like tearing and frame rate drops, as noted by reviewers such as PlaySense and Jeuxvideo.com. The Xbox Series X version is mostly seen as stable, with some minor criticisms regarding graphical fidelity. Despite these issues, the majority of reviewers agree that F1 2021 provides a solid racing experience, particularly on next-gen consoles, with many expecting patches to address the highlighted concerns.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

F1 2021 boasts strong replay value with diverse modes and cooperative play that appeal to both new and veteran players. Critics praise features like My Team mode and customization, enhancing longevity. However, longtime fans may feel disappointed by minimal changes in core gameplay, especially career mode, and find little reason to upgrade from F1 2020. While it's a solid racing sim, the lack of significant updates could deter those familiar with earlier versions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of F1 2021 is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game's diverse modes and options that cater to a wide range of players. Reviewers like Atomix and Meristation highlight the introduction of cooperative play in My Team and the two-player career mode, which significantly enhances the replayability for both veterans and newcomers. Critics such as PC Gamer and Xbox Tavern appreciate the various gameplay modes, including the My Team mode and classic drivers, which provide players with a wealth of content to explore. Additionally, the presence of customization options and the ability to download real 2021 season stats are seen as valuable features that contribute to the game's longevity, as noted by GamePro Germany and Worth Playing. However, there are notable concerns regarding the game's replay value, particularly for seasoned players. Critics like PlayStation Universe and IGN Japan point out that the lack of significant changes in core modes, especially the career mode, may deter long-time fans from returning to the game. Some reviewers, such as Game Debate and Gfinity, express that while the new modes are engaging, they may not justify a purchase for those who already own F1 2020, as the iterative differences are perceived as minor. Furthermore, the relatively short single-player story mode, mentioned by critics like GameByte and Gfinity, may limit long-term engagement for players seeking a more extensive narrative experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that F1 2021 offers a solid replay value bolstered by its various modes and cooperative options, appealing to both casual and hardcore fans. While many reviewers appreciate the new features and customization opportunities, concerns about the lack of significant changes in core gameplay and the potential for repetitiveness remain. Overall, the game is viewed as a worthwhile experience for players looking for a comprehensive racing simulation, but those who are already familiar with previous iterations may find less incentive to invest time in this installment.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

F1 2021 has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, who commend its engaging gameplay and new features. Many reviewers, such as Metro GameCentral and God is a Geek, highlight the compelling story mode and the overall quality of the racing experience, suggesting that it is an improvement over its predecessor. Critics like GameByte and PlayStation LifeStyle praise the game for its accessibility and impressive graphics, making it appealing to both newcomers and veteran players alike. The introduction of new modes, including a two-player career, has been noted as a significant enhancement, with GameCritics expressing hope for continued development in future installments. Overall, the game is recognized for its solid gameplay mechanics and immersive sound design, which contribute to a satisfying racing simulation. However, several criticisms have emerged regarding F1 2021, particularly concerning its lack of innovation and technical execution. Hardcore Gamer and GameOver.gr point out shortcomings in AI and the removal of certain modes, which detract from the overall experience. The story mode, while praised by some, has received mixed reviews; PC Invasion and Malditos Nerds mention that it falls short of expectations and lacks depth. Additionally, some critics, including TheSixthAxis and Vandal, argue that the game does not offer significant visual improvements or enough content compared to real-life racing seasons, which may disappoint long-time fans seeking more substantial changes. The overall consensus among critics is that F1 2021 is a solid entry in the franchise, balancing realism with accessibility, as noted by reviewers like Impulsegamer and Everyeye.it. While it is recognized as a strong iteration with several enhancements, many critics agree that it plays it safe without taking significant risks, as highlighted by Meristation and Wccftech. Despite its shortcomings, the game is recommended for fans of the series and newcomers alike, with many expressing anticipation for future developments. Overall, F1 2021 is seen as a commendable racing simulation that successfully builds on its predecessors while laying a foundation for future titles.

TL;DR

F1 2021 impresses with engaging gameplay, a compelling story mode, and stunning graphics, appealing to both newcomers and veterans. Critics praise new features like the two-player career mode, but some point out a lack of innovation and AI issues. While it's a solid, accessible racing sim, the game plays it safe and doesn't deliver significant visual upgrades or content, leaving long-time fans wanting more. Overall, it's a commendable entry that lays a promising groundwork for the future.

MONSTER

Reviews

117 reviews found

100

TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jul 12, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

F1 2021 is praised as the finest F1 racing game to date, offering an immersive experience with deep gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals, making it a must-have for fans of the sport.

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Areajugones

PlayStation 4

Jul 12, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

F1 2021 es un gran complemento para los fans de la Fórmula 1, con nuevos modos de juego que elevan la experiencia, aunque aún le falta profundidad para atraer a todos los jugadores.

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Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Jul 13, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer considers 'F1 2021' a great step for the franchise, with addictive gameplay, a compelling story mode, and solid car handling. It continues to build on what the previous installment achieved.

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Worth Playing

Jul 13, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

F1 2021 is described as an engaging racing game that improves upon its predecessor with new modes and polished gameplay, appealing to both F1 fans and newcomers.

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SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Jul 25, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

F1 2021 is one of the best entries in the series, featuring solid gameplay modes, impressive visuals, and outstanding sound design, making it a must-play for racing fans.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Jul 13, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite some flaws, F1 2021 is an exceptional game that will keep F1 fans happy.

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COGconnected

Xbox Series X

Jul 12, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that F1 2021 is an excellent sports game that has managed to continue to get better with every release. It praises the new narrative content, visuals, performance, and sound design, while acknowledging that it may not appeal to casual fans or those who prefer a different type of driving game.

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IGN Italia

Jul 12, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

F1 2021 is a solid continuation of the series, improving on previous titles with new modes and refined gameplay, while setting a high bar for future iterations.

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PC Gamer

Jul 12, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is highly praised for its comprehensive gameplay modes and realistic racing experience.

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Wccftech

Jul 16, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

F1 2021 is a significant step forward for the franchise, offering a well-rounded experience with engaging storytelling, refined gameplay, and impressive visuals. It sets a strong foundation for future titles.

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