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MONSTER

F1 23

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of F1 23
Item: F1 23
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresVirtual Reality, Simulation, Sports, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing

AvailableJun 13, 2023

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5

DeveloperCodemasters

Overview

The award-winning F1 series is the official videogame of the FIA Formula One World Championship, putting players in the driving seat of the greatest racing spectacle on Earth.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

F1 23's story mode, "Braking Point 2," receives praise for its engaging narrative and character drama, highlighted by interactive elements and strong character arcs. New faces like Callie Mayer and returning favorites add depth, keeping players invested. However, some critics argue the story can feel unnecessary, repetitive, and predictable, with limited player agency. Despite these flaws, it captures the intensity of Formula 1 racing and is a solid addition to the franchise, appealing to fans of story-driven games while also needing improvements in realism and choice.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story mode of F1 23, titled "Braking Point 2," has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, highlighting its engaging narrative and character-driven drama. Reviewers like Areajugones and Atomix praised the mode for its compelling storylines and interactive elements, such as social media and phone calls, which add depth to the experience. Critics like COGconnected and TechRadar Gaming noted that the narrative offers a rich exploration of a fictional F1 racing team, with character development and well-produced cutscenes enhancing the overall storytelling. The inclusion of new characters, such as Callie Mayer, and the return of familiar faces like Aiden Jackson and Devon Butler have been pointed out as significant strengths, with multiple reviewers, including GamingBolt and Metro GameCentral, appreciating the drama and twists that keep players engaged throughout the campaign. However, not all opinions are favorable, as some critics have pointed out shortcomings in the story mode. GameOver.gr described the narrative-driven mode as unnecessary, suggesting it detracts from the overall experience, while others like Eurogamer Poland and GamersRD mentioned that the gameplay can become repetitive and lacks significant player agency in shaping the story. Additionally, critiques regarding the character development and the predictability of the plot were noted by Push Square and God is a Geek, who expressed that while the story is enjoyable, it occasionally falls into cliché territory. The linearity of the narrative and the sometimes contrived storytelling were also highlighted by Gamereactor UK, indicating that while the mode is entertaining, it may not resonate with all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Braking Point 2" offers an entertaining and engaging narrative experience, albeit with some caveats. The mode successfully captures the drama and intensity of Formula 1 racing, drawing comparisons to popular media like Netflix's "Drive to Survive," as noted by multiple reviewers including Everyeye.it and IGN Italia. While many critics, such as Hardcore Gamer and Noisy Pixel, acknowledge the mode's strengths in character and storytelling, they also emphasize the need for improvements in realism and player choice. Ultimately, "Braking Point 2" stands as a noteworthy addition to the F1 franchise, appealing to fans of narrative-driven gameplay while also inviting critique for its limitations.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

F1 23 impresses with major upgrades in driving mechanics and realism, earning praise for its Precision Drive Technology and engaging F1 World mode. Critics appreciate the enhanced AI, strategic depth, and a balance between accessibility and simulation. However, concerns about microtransactions, AI flexibility, and multiplayer inconsistencies linger. Overall, it’s a strong entry that appeals to both new and longtime fans, despite some lingering issues.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of F1 23 has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising the significant improvements made to the driving mechanics and overall experience. Reviewers such as Hardcore Gamer and Push Square highlighted the enhanced racing physics and car behavior, which contribute to a more realistic and enjoyable gameplay experience. The introduction of Precision Drive Technology has been particularly noted for improving handling, acceleration, and braking, making the game more accessible to a wider range of players, as mentioned by Everyeye.it and IGN Italia. Furthermore, the F1 World mode has emerged as a standout feature, offering engaging challenges and a hub for players to explore, as noted by GamersRD and Screen Rant. The improvements in AI behavior and the addition of strategic elements like red flags and diverse race strategies have also been well-received, enhancing the depth of gameplay. Despite the overall positive sentiment, some critics have raised concerns regarding certain aspects of the gameplay. For instance, Gamer.nl pointed out issues related to microtransactions and potential pay-to-win elements, which could detract from the overall experience. Additionally, while many praised the improved handling, some noted that the AI difficulty levels may lack flexibility, as highlighted by The Enemy. Critics like GameSpew mentioned that the gameplay remains largely similar to previous iterations, suggesting that while there are improvements, the core experience may not feel significantly different for seasoned players. Moreover, Windows Central criticized the multiplayer component, indicating that it suffers from inconsistencies and lacks the polish seen in single-player modes. Overall, the consensus among critics is that F1 23 delivers a compelling and refined racing experience, with notable advancements in handling and gameplay mechanics. The majority of reviewers, including those from TechRadar Gaming and Gamereactor UK, expressed that the game strikes a commendable balance between simulation and accessibility, catering to both casual and dedicated players. While there are some criticisms regarding microtransactions and AI flexibility, the enhancements in driving physics, the engaging F1 World mode, and the overall immersive experience have left a positive impression on most critics. Thus, F1 23 is viewed as a solid entry in the franchise, appealing to both newcomers and veterans alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

F1 23 impresses with stunning visuals and realism, earning praise for its detailed graphics, vibrant colors, and immersive environments, especially at night circuits like Las Vegas. While some critics highlight issues with character models and minor visual inconsistencies, the game is celebrated for its photorealistic recreation of cars and tracks. Overall, F1 23 showcases significant advancements in visual design, though there's still room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of F1 23 is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game's impressive visual fidelity and attention to detail. Reviewers like Areajugones and Atomix noted the immersive experience provided by the graphics, highlighting the realism and detail that cater to both hardcore fans and newcomers alike. The game is lauded for its vibrant color palettes and improved lighting effects, particularly during night races in new circuits such as Las Vegas and Losail, as mentioned by Everyeye.it and Hardcore Gamer. Critics like GamingTrend and God is a Geek emphasized the meticulous recreation of car models and tracks, with many noting that the game approaches photorealism, enhancing the overall immersion. However, there are some criticisms regarding certain aspects of the graphics. COGconnected pointed out that while there are improvements in lighting and color encoding, character models still exhibit issues that detract from the overall experience. Additionally, GameOver.gr and GAMES.CH noted that despite the stunning visuals, there are minor oversights, such as the lack of realistic wet track effects and environmental details that could further enhance realism. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and TRG mentioned that the game lacks significant visual upgrades compared to its predecessor, with some visual oddities and inconsistencies noted, particularly in the damage model and reflections. In summary, the consensus among critics is that F1 23 delivers a visually impressive experience, with many praising its enhancements in graphics and overall design. While there are some criticisms regarding character models and minor details that could be improved, the majority of reviewers agree that the game successfully captures the essence of Formula 1 racing through its stunning visuals and immersive environments. Critics like GamingBolt and IGN Italia encapsulate this sentiment by acknowledging the game's ability to closely resemble real-life broadcasts and the overall craftsmanship in the design of the tracks and vehicles. Overall, F1 23 stands out as a visually compelling racing title that showcases significant advancements while also leaving room for future improvements.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

F1 23’s sound design and music receive high praise for immersive audio and distinct car sounds, especially on PS5 with DualSense haptic feedback. Critics highlight the energetic soundtrack but criticize the basic race commentary and its lack of memorable moments. Overall, the game excels in audio immersion, solidifying its place in the racing genre despite some areas needing improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

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 23 have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, particularly regarding the high-quality audio that enhances the immersive racing experience. Reviewers such as Areajugones and Hardcore Gamer have highlighted the impressive car audio, noting that each vehicle sounds distinct based on its model, which adds to the authenticity of the racing simulation. The integration of DualSense features on the PS5, as pointed out by GameSpew and Push Square, further elevates the experience by allowing players to feel the nuances of the track through haptic feedback. Additionally, the soundtrack has been praised for its energetic electronic tracks, which are described as perfectly suited for high-octane racing, with GamingTrend noting the inclusion of 34 tracks from renowned artists that enhance the overall atmosphere. However, there are notable criticisms regarding certain aspects of the audio experience. TechRadar Gaming and TRG pointed out that the race commentary feels basic and lacks the flair necessary to engage players fully, detracting from the overall immersion. Critics like Shacknews have echoed this sentiment, mentioning that the commentary and post-race interviews feel disconnected from reality. Furthermore, while some reviews commend the soundtrack, others, such as SomosXbox, criticized it for lacking memorable elements, suggesting that it may not leave a lasting impression on players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that F1 23 excels in its sound design, particularly with the realistic engine sounds and immersive audio effects that capture the essence of Formula 1 racing. Reviewers like PLAY! Zine and Noisy Pixel have emphasized how the sound design enhances the racing experience, while others have pointed out areas for improvement, particularly in commentary quality. Despite these criticisms, the general sentiment remains positive, with many acknowledging that the audio elements significantly contribute to the game's immersive qualities, making it a standout in the racing genre.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

F1 23's voice acting is largely praised for enhancing narrative immersion and community feel, with standout performances in cutscenes and the Braking Point campaign. Critics commend its authenticity but note issues with some commentary and overly dramatic dialogue that detracts from the experience. Overall, while the game excels in character development, there’s room for improvement to achieve consistent quality across all voice performances.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in F1 23 has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, highlighting its role in enhancing the game's narrative and immersive experience. Reviewers such as Everyeye.it and Noisy Pixel commend the expertly delivered cutscenes and the authenticity brought forth by the voice performances, with Noisy Pixel emphasizing how the voice acting contributes to the feeling of being part of the racing community. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and TechRadar Gaming also note the solid quality of voice acting in the Braking Point campaign, suggesting that it positively impacts the overall narrative experience. Furthermore, PLAY! Zine praises the well-executed voice acting in pre-rendered sequences, which is enhanced by excellent facial animations, ultimately enriching the storytelling aspect of the game. On the flip side, some criticisms have emerged regarding certain aspects of the voice acting. The Games Machine points out the lackluster performance of the commentators, suggesting that switching to English may yield better results. Windows Central criticizes the dialogue in the Braking Point story mode for being overly dramatic and lacking coherence at times, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, Meristation notes that while Antonio Lobato's delivery feels more natural, Pedro Martínez de la Rosa's performance comes across as scripted, indicating inconsistencies in the quality of voice performances among different characters. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the voice acting in F1 23 has notable strengths, particularly in terms of character development and enhancing the narrative, there are areas that require improvement. Many reviewers, such as TRG and GameGrin, appreciate the well-acted performances and improved quality in cutscenes, yet acknowledge the need for better execution in certain aspects, especially concerning the commentary and some character deliveries. This mixed feedback indicates that while F1 23 succeeds in many areas of voice acting, it still has room for growth to achieve a consistently high standard across all elements of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

F1 23 shines on PlayStation 5 with smooth 4K and 60 FPS, praised for its polished performance and DualSense features, but suffers from minor glitches in Career mode. Xbox Series X also performs well but has visual bugs. PC version struggles with crashes, long load times, and multiplayer issues, leading to a less stable experience. While generally positive, critics urge for fixes, especially on PC, to reach expected standards in future updates.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of F1 23 across various gaming platforms showcases a generally positive reception, particularly for the PlayStation 5. Critics such as Hardcore Gamer and Noisy Pixel highlight the game’s ability to run smoothly at 4K and 60 FPS, with Noisy Pixel emphasizing the flawless performance and enhanced experience provided by the DualSense controller's adaptive features. Additionally, Push Square and Screen Rant commend the game for being more polished than its predecessor, F1 22, with improvements in handling and a stable experience. The Xbox Series X also receives praise, with Meristation noting impressive visual quality and smooth frame rates, while Guardian mentions technical tweaks that enhance handling and physics models. On PC, GamersRD celebrates the game’s ability to run smoothly with advanced technologies like DLSS 3, achieving high frame rates at 4K resolution. However, there are notable negatives across the platforms that critics have pointed out. On PlayStation 5, Everyeye.it and IGN Italia mention issues with minor glitches and bugs in Career mode, indicating that while the game performs well overall, there are still areas that require attention. For PC, the situation appears more problematic, as multiple critics, including Dexerto and IGN Japan, report significant technical issues such as crashes, long loading times, and broken features in practice programs. Windows Central also highlights multiplayer stability issues, which detracts from the overall experience. On Xbox Series X, while the game runs well, critics like SomosXbox point out visual bugs and HDR configuration problems, suggesting that technical imperfections persist. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that F1 23 has made strides in technical performance, particularly on the PlayStation 5, where the majority of reviews are favorable. While the game is generally stable and offers a polished experience, especially compared to its predecessor, there are still issues that need to be addressed, particularly on PC, where technical glitches and stability problems are more pronounced. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Impulsegamer underscore the need for future iterations to resolve these issues, ensuring a more seamless experience across all platforms. In summary, while F1 23 delivers a solid performance, it is clear that ongoing improvements are necessary to achieve the level of polish expected from a leading racing title.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

F1 23 is a hit with critics for its replay value, thanks to the engaging F1 World mode featuring daily and seasonal challenges, rich content, and extensive customization options. While it offers a wealth of gameplay modes that appeal to both newbies and veterans, some reviewers lament the lack of innovation in the career mode and note that F1 World may not fully deliver on its potential. Concerns about microtransactions also cast a shadow on the experience. Ultimately, despite its flaws, F1 23 lays a strong foundation for replayability, promising fun for both casual and hardcore fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The consensus among critics regarding the replay value of F1 23 is largely positive, highlighting the extensive content and diverse gameplay modes that cater to both new players and veterans of the series. Notably, the introduction of the F1 World mode has been praised for its engaging features, such as daily, weekly, and seasonal challenges, which provide a structured experience that encourages players to return regularly. Critics like Areajugones and TechRadar Gaming emphasize the wealth of content and progression systems that enhance replayability, while Digital Chumps and IGN Italia commend the variety of modes available, including multiplayer options and the revamped ranked system. The ability to customize avatars, cars, and teams further adds to the game's appeal, making it a rich experience for fans. However, there are some criticisms that temper the overall enthusiasm for F1 23's replay value. Several reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer and CD-Action, express disappointment over the lack of innovation in the traditional career mode, which remains largely unchanged from previous iterations. Others, like Dexerto and Meristation, point out that while F1 World offers potential, it may not fully deliver on its promise, with some modes lacking depth or challenge. Additionally, concerns about microtransactions in Atomix's review suggest that the monetization aspects could detract from the overall experience, particularly in terms of how they might affect gameplay balance and enjoyment. Overall, the critics converge on the idea that F1 23 provides a solid foundation for replayability, primarily driven by the new F1 World mode and its associated content. While there are valid concerns regarding the lack of innovation in certain areas and the potential impact of monetization, the game is still recognized for its extensive modes and customization options that keep players engaged. Critics like GamingBolt and TheSixthAxis highlight the longevity offered by the new features, suggesting that F1 23 has the potential to satisfy both casual players and dedicated fans alike, despite some noted shortcomings.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding F1 23 among critics is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its status as a significant improvement over its predecessor, F1 22. Many reviewers, such as TRG and Gamereactor UK, commend the game for its feature-rich package that caters to both casual and hardcore fans of Formula 1. The engaging single-player modes, particularly the Braking Point 2 narrative, are frequently praised for their immersive storytelling and captivating gameplay. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Metro GameCentral emphasize the polished racing experience and enhanced accessibility options, which make the game appealing to a wider audience. Additionally, the improvements in graphics and gameplay mechanics have been noted by several reviewers, including GamingTrend and Everyeye.it, making F1 23 a visually stunning and enjoyable racing simulator. However, some critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in F1 23 that detract from the overall experience. Windows Central and Shacknews raise concerns about the multiplayer aspect, highlighting longstanding issues such as loading screen problems and inconsistent penalties that may disappoint competitive players. Critics like GameOver.gr and GamersRD also mention a lack of significant innovation in certain modes, particularly the Career Mode, which remains relatively unchanged. Furthermore, some reviews, including those from GGRecon and Hardcore Gamer, indicate that while the game is an iterative improvement, it could benefit from more varied content and enhancements to the narrative flow in story-driven modes. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among reviewers is that F1 23 is a strong entry in the series, with many considering it the best installment to date. Critics like LevelUp and IGN Adria emphasize the game's evolution, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and immersive experience, making it a worthwhile purchase for both new players and series veterans. The majority of reviews reflect a sense of optimism about the direction of the franchise, with many anticipating that future iterations will build upon the solid foundation established by F1 23. Overall, the game is seen as a compelling and enjoyable racing experience that successfully caters to a diverse audience, solidifying its place in the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts.

TL;DR

F1 23 receives rave reviews, hailed as a significant upgrade from F1 22 with engaging single-player modes like Braking Point 2 and polished gameplay. Critics praise its rich features and improved graphics, broadening its appeal. However, multiplayer issues and a lack of innovation in Career Mode are noted drawbacks. Overall, it's regarded as the best installment yet, promising a bright future for the franchise and a must-play for racing fans.

MONSTER

Reviews

103 reviews found

Atomix

PlayStation 5

Jun 16, 2023