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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

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

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

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

F1 2021’s story mode "Braking Point" impresses with engaging characters and cinematic flair, drawing comparisons to "Drive to Survive." However, critics largely slam it for its simplistic, cliché-driven narrative, lack of depth, and limited player choices. While charming moments exist, the overall execution disappoints, missing a chance for a more dynamic storytelling experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story mode of F1 2021, known as "Braking Point," has garnered some praise from critics for its engaging characters and cinematic presentation. Reviewers such as God is a Geek and Wccftech highlight the narrative's entertainment value, noting that it offers a well-written story that enhances the overall experience of the game. The mode's attempt to mirror the drama of real-life Formula 1, akin to the Netflix series "Drive to Survive," has also been positively received by critics like Jeuxvideo.com, who appreciate the engaging challenges and character dynamics. Additionally, some reviewers, such as AusGamers, find the story surprisingly charming despite its formulaic nature, suggesting that it has moments of genuine appeal. However, the majority of critics have pointed out significant flaws in "Braking Point." Many reviews, including those from LevelUp and PC Invasion, criticize the narrative for being overly simplistic, filled with clichés, and lacking depth. Critics like GameOver.gr and Gamer.nl echo these sentiments, mentioning the brevity of the story and the limited character development, which detracts from player engagement. The linearity of the narrative has also been a common point of contention, with reviewers such as IGN and Worth Playing noting that the lack of meaningful player choices severely limits the overall impact of the experience. This sentiment is reinforced by critics like Atomix and GameByte, who highlight the missed opportunity for a more responsive and dynamic storytelling approach. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the story mode of F1 2021 is mixed. While there are elements of charm and engaging character interactions, the overarching narrative is often described as shallow and formulaic. Many reviewers, including Stevivor and GameStar, express disappointment with the execution, indicating that the story fails to live up to the potential of its premise. The critiques suggest that while "Braking Point" offers a fun and entertaining experience, it ultimately falls short of delivering a compelling and immersive narrative that could have elevated the game further.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

F1 2021 impresses with immersive gameplay and realistic handling, praised for features like the two-player career mode and customizable difficulty. Critics noted improvements in AI and physics, enhancing the racing experience. However, concerns about removed features and AI behavior exist, along with frustrations over the lack of practice sessions. Overall, it’s a strong entry that balances realism and accessibility, appealing to both new and veteran players, despite some areas needing refinement.

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 been widely praised by critics, with many highlighting its engaging and immersive experience. Reviewers like Impulsegamer and Gfinity noted the smooth gameplay and improved handling, which contribute to a more realistic racing experience. The introduction of new features such as the two-player career mode, as mentioned by PlayStation Universe and Forbes, has been particularly well-received, allowing friends to enjoy the game together. Additionally, the game offers a variety of customizable difficulty settings and assists, catering to both casual players and seasoned veterans, as emphasized by critics like Everyeye.it and Comicbook.com. The improvements in AI behavior and the physics model have also been highlighted, making races feel dynamic and challenging, a sentiment echoed by Vandal and PCGamesN. However, despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings. Hardcore Gamer expressed concerns about the removal of key features and issues with AI, which detracted from the overall experience. GameCritics mentioned that the flashback feature, while improved, can disrupt the organic flow of races. Additionally, IGN Japan raised concerns about the lack of practice sessions before races, which could lead to difficulty spikes, potentially frustrating less experienced players. These criticisms suggest that while the gameplay is strong, there are aspects that could be refined further to enhance player satisfaction. In summary, the consensus among critics is that F1 2021 delivers a solid and enjoyable racing experience, with many praising its depth, accessibility, and the introduction of new modes. Reviewers like PlaySense and TheXboxHub highlighted the game's ability to cater to a wide range of players, balancing realism with user-friendly controls. While there are some criticisms regarding the removal of features and AI issues, the majority of reviewers agree that the gameplay is engaging and offers a satisfying simulation of Formula 1 racing. Overall, F1 2021 stands out as a commendable entry in the franchise, appealing to both newcomers and long-time fans alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

F1 2021's graphics shine on next-gen consoles with praised enhancements in lighting, car models, and realism, deemed the best-looking F1 game yet. However, critics argue it lacks significant advancements over previous titles, with stagnant overall visuals and issues like frame rate drops. While the game shows improvement, it falls short of fully exploiting new hardware potential, leaving room for further innovation in future versions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

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 mix of praise from critics, particularly for their improvements on next-gen consoles. Reviewers like PlaySense and M3 noted enhancements in lighting and resolution, with PlaySense highlighting the high-quality car models and environments. Critics such as Everyeye.it and GameSpew also acknowledged the detailed vehicles and tracks, while IGN described it as the best-looking F1 game to date, emphasizing the realistic damage effects and trackside details. The utilization of features like ray tracing on platforms such as the PS5 and Xbox Series X has been positively received, with critics like Malditos Nerds and GameOver.gr praising the immersive experience created by improved visuals and lifelike cinematics. However, several criticisms emerged regarding the graphics, particularly concerning the lack of significant advancements over previous titles. Vandal and Cubed3 pointed out that the graphics felt somewhat stagnant, with minimal updates compared to earlier editions. Impulsegamer echoed this sentiment, noting that while car details were well-rendered, the overall graphics fell short of current generation standards, particularly in character models. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com and Hardcore Gamer highlighted issues such as frame rate drops during cutscenes and environmental details that did not meet expectations, suggesting that certain animations and elements felt outdated or recycled from prior games. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while F1 2021 showcases notable improvements in graphics, particularly on next-gen consoles, it does not fully capitalize on the potential of the new hardware. Critics like Shacknews and Digital Chumps emphasized that the visual upgrades are more about refinement than a groundbreaking leap forward. While many reviewers appreciated the enhanced realism and attention to detail, there remains a shared sentiment that the game could have pushed the boundaries further. Thus, while F1 2021 is visually appealing and represents a step forward, it leaves room for further innovation and improvement in future iterations.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

F1 2021's sound design impresses with immersive engine sounds and dynamic audio effects, earning praise from critics for its authenticity and engagement. However, it faces backlash for repetitive commentary and subpar voice acting, detracting from the overall experience. While the audio landscape has improved since F1 2020, addressing these shortcomings could elevate future installments. In short, great engine sounds, but the voice work needs a serious revamp.

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 among critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive audio experience that captures the essence of Formula racing. Reviewers like IGN Japan and Hardcore Gamer praised the powerful engine sounds, which significantly enhance immersion, while PlaySense and WellPlayed noted the authenticity of the car sounds, contributing to the overall gameplay experience. Critics such as Cultured Vultures and MGG Spain emphasized the realism of engine noises, with the latter pointing out that the sound design includes localized voice acting that adds to the cinematic feel of the game. Additionally, several reviews, including those from Xbox Achievements and GameByte, mentioned the dynamic nature of the audio, which includes well-executed engine sounds and immersive effects that keep players engaged during races. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design, particularly in the areas of voice acting and commentary. Many reviewers, including Hobby Consolas and PlaySense, expressed dissatisfaction with the repetitive nature of the commentary, while others like MGG Spain and Impulsegamer pointed out the subpar quality of voice acting in certain modes, which detracts from the overall immersion. Critics such as IGN and Shacknews mentioned that while the sound design has improved, some elements, like the absence of classic cars and the unchanged commentary, leave room for enhancement. Furthermore, collision sounds were frequently cited as a downside, with Hardcore Gamer and PlayStation Universe noting that they felt generic compared to the otherwise high-quality audio. The overall consensus among critics is that F1 2021 offers a solid sound design experience, particularly with its authentic engine sounds and immersive effects that elevate the gameplay. However, the game does face criticism for its voice acting and commentary, which many feel could benefit from further refinement. While the sound design has seen improvements over its predecessor, F1 2020, as noted by Game Debate and PCGamesN, the mixed reviews regarding voice acting and commentary suggest that there is still potential for growth in future installments. In summary, while F1 2021 excels in creating an engaging audio landscape, addressing the shortcomings in voice acting and commentary could significantly enhance the overall experience for players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

F1 2021's voice acting has received mixed reviews; praised for enhancing the story mode and cinematic experience, but criticized for poor dialogue quality, inconsistent delivery, and technical issues like lip-syncing. While some performances shine, notable flaws leave players with a fragmented experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

15%

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

The voice acting in F1 2021 has received a mix of praise from several critics, particularly regarding its integration into the story mode, which enhances the cinematic experience. IGN Japan noted that the voice acting contributes positively to the narrative, while Hardcore Gamer highlighted the excellent quality of voice acting in the 'Braking Point' mode, stating it significantly enhances the storytelling. Critics from Cubed3 and TierraGamer also emphasized the strong performances in the story mode, with the latter noting the depth added to character interactions. Additionally, GamePro Germany appreciated the German voice acting for team calls, which further immerses players in the game. However, the negatives surrounding the voice acting are quite pronounced, with many critics pointing out significant flaws. IGN Spain criticized the dialogue quality, claiming it detracted from the overall experience, while MGG Spain described the voice acting in 'Braking Point' as poorly executed. Issues with lip-syncing were noted by Everyeye.it and GamingBolt, indicating a lack of polish that undermines the immersion. Furthermore, Impulsegamer pointed out the limited dialogue from drivers and inconsistent delivery from commentators, which fails to enhance the game's narrative experience. Critics like PlaySense also mentioned that the Dutch voice acting lacked emotion, suggesting that the localization efforts could be improved. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while there are notable strengths in the voice acting of F1 2021, particularly in the story mode, there are also considerable weaknesses that detract from the experience. Many reviewers, such as IGN and Eurogamer Italy, found the cutscene voice acting to be decent and authentic, but this praise is often tempered by criticisms of technical issues and inconsistent quality across different languages and modes. The mixed reviews indicate that while the voice acting has the potential to enhance the narrative, it ultimately falls short in execution, leaving players with a somewhat fragmented experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

F1 2021 impresses with solid technical performance across platforms, earning praise for smooth gameplay and fast load times on PS4, PS5, and Xbox Series X. However, it faces criticism for notable issues like AI glitches, frame rate drops, and screen tearing, particularly on next-gen consoles. Despite its strengths, the game’s mixed reviews highlight the need for ongoing patches to resolve these technical shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

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 generally positive reception across various gaming platforms. On PlayStation 4, critics like Metro GameCentral and IGN Spain praised the game's exemplary performance, highlighting its ability to maintain quality expected from the franchise with minimal issues. Similarly, on PlayStation 5, titles like GamePro Germany and PlayStation LifeStyle noted the smooth gameplay and fast loading times, with many reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer and WellPlayed, emphasizing the lack of major technical issues. For Xbox Series X, the consensus is also favorable, with critics from Gfinity and TheXboxHub noting strong technical performance, minimal bugs, and reduced loading times, contributing to a smooth racing experience. Despite the overall positive sentiment, several critics pointed out technical issues that detracted from the experience on each platform. On PlayStation 4, Gamer.nl mentioned AI behavior and safety car functionality issues, which could disrupt gameplay. On PlayStation 5, while many reviews were positive, some like Everyeye.it and Jeuxvideo.com highlighted problems such as screen tearing and frame rate issues, particularly during cutscenes and off-track events. On Xbox Series X, Jeuxvideo.com echoed concerns about frame rate issues and the lack of significant graphical upgrades, which could impact the overall experience. Additionally, Xbox Achievements pointed out tearing and slowdown in cutscenes, indicating that even on next-gen consoles, there are still areas needing improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that F1 2021 performs well across platforms, with many praising its smooth gameplay and technical stability. However, the presence of various technical issues—ranging from minor glitches to more significant performance concerns—suggests that while the game is a solid entry in the franchise, it is not without its faults. Critics like Atomix and AusGamers noted that the game has undergone thorough quality assurance, but the mixed reviews regarding technical performance, especially on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, indicate that ongoing patches and updates will be crucial in enhancing the gaming experience further.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

F1 2021 scores high on replay value thanks to cooperative play, diverse modes, and ongoing content, appealing to both casual and hardcore players. Critics praise its customization and real-world simulation, but some seasoned fans feel it's lacking innovation, especially if they own F1 2020. The Braking Point mode also raises concerns about narrative replayability. Overall, it offers a solid experience, balancing engagement for newcomers and depth for dedicated fans, though some may miss significant updates in core gameplay.

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 opinions regarding the replay value of F1 2021 from various critics highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its appeal. Many reviewers, such as Atomix and GamePro Germany, appreciate the introduction of cooperative play in the My Team mode and the two-player career mode, which significantly enhances replayability for both casual and hardcore players. Critics like Malditos Nerds and AusGamers emphasize the variety of gameplay modes and customization options, which cater to diverse player preferences and encourage repeated engagement. The game’s ability to simulate real-life F1 seasons and the inclusion of weekly challenges and esports features, as noted by MGG Spain and Shacknews, further bolster its replay value, making it attractive for players looking for ongoing content. Conversely, some critics express concerns about the lack of significant innovation in core modes, particularly for seasoned players. For instance, PlayStation Universe and IGN Japan point out that long-time fans may find less incentive to replay the game due to unchanged elements in the career mode. Additionally, Game Debate mentions that players who already own F1 2020 might not find enough new content to justify a purchase, unless they are particularly interested in the Braking Point mode. The limited replay value of the Braking Point story mode, as highlighted by TheXboxHub and Gfinity, also raises questions about the long-term engagement potential for players seeking narrative depth. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that F1 2021 offers a solid replay value driven by its variety of modes and cooperative gameplay options, appealing to a broad audience. While some reviewers like PCGamesN and Screen Rant acknowledge that certain aspects may feel repetitive or lack innovation, the game's extensive customization and multiplayer features, as noted by critics like Everyeye.it and Vandal, create a compelling experience for both new and returning players. Ultimately, the game appears to strike a balance between catering to casual players and providing enough depth for dedicated fans, although some may find the absence of substantial changes in core modes a drawback.

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.

The overall sentiment surrounding F1 2021 is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, impressive graphics, and the introduction of new modes, particularly the story mode and two-player career options. Reviewers like Hardcore Gamer and Digital Chumps highlight the solid racing mechanics and the immersive experience that the game provides. Critics from IGN and GameByte commend the game for its improvements over its predecessor, noting that it caters well to both newcomers and veteran players. The game is described as visually stunning, with notable attention to detail, which enhances the overall racing experience, as pointed out by CGMagazine and God is a Geek, who refer to it as a "masterpiece of modern racing." However, despite the many strengths, several critics have pointed out notable weaknesses in F1 2021. Issues such as technical glitches, AI shortcomings, and a lack of substantial content compared to real-life racing seasons have been raised by multiple reviewers, including PCGamesN and Gamer.nl. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com and PC Invasion specifically mention that the game falls short in visual fidelity and technical execution, especially on next-gen consoles. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as Malditos Nerds and Game Debate, express disappointment over the lack of innovation and the absence of certain features that could enhance the overall experience. The consensus among critics suggests that while F1 2021 is a strong entry in the series, it does not fully meet the expectations set by its predecessors or the real-world Formula One experience. Many reviewers, including those from Screen Rant and WellPlayed, agree that the game is enjoyable and offers a comprehensive package, but it could benefit from further refinements and additional content. Overall, F1 2021 is seen as a solid racing simulator that successfully builds on its legacy, yet it still has room for improvement to truly satisfy both hardcore fans and casual players alike.

TL;DR

F1 2021 is a largely praised racing game featuring engaging gameplay, stunning graphics, and new modes, appealing to both newcomers and veterans. Critics applaud its immersive experience and solid mechanics, calling it a "modern racing masterpiece." However, it suffers from technical glitches, AI issues, and lacks content compared to real-life racing. While it's a strong addition to the series, it falls short of expectations and has room for improvement to fully satisfy fans.

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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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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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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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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Finger Guns

Xbox Series X

Jul 16, 2021

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

F1 2021 is described as the most essential game in the series for years, offering a thoroughly enjoyable and accessible racing experience with a compelling narrative mode and a variety of content.