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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

Praised for its immersive narrative, character-driven drama, and cinematic flair, F1 23’s Braking Point 2 dazzles with emotional stakes, interactive storytelling, and a gripping F1 soap opera vibe—yet critics pounce on stiff mechanics, underdeveloped characters, and formulaic tropes that undercut its ambition.

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 majority of reviewers praise F1 23’s Braking Point story mode for its engaging narrative, character-driven drama, and cinematic quality. Critics like Areajugones highlight the "engaging drama in story mode," while Atomix and Digital Chumps commend the inclusion of interactive elements such as social media and phone calls, which add depth to the fictional F1 team’s struggles. The sequel, Braking Point 2, is lauded for its emotional stakes and return of characters like Aiden Jackson and Devon Butler, with GamingBolt noting its focus on team reputation management and IGN Italia comparing it to Drive to Survive for its realistic portrayal of F1 politics. COGconnected and TechRadar Gaming emphasize the compelling narrative around the fictional Konnersport team, while Everyeye.it praises the "expertly commented" cutscenes and surprising twists. The mode’s ability to blend racing with personal conflicts and rivalries is frequently cited as a standout feature. However, several critics point out flaws in the story mode’s execution. GameOver.gr calls it "unnecessary" and criticizes its lack of realism and innovation, while GAMES.CH notes stiff menus and interviews that detract from immersion. GGRecon and Eurogamer Poland highlight underdeveloped characters and minimal impact of player choices, with the latter criticizing the narrative’s "romanticized portrayal of Formula 1." Push Square laments a rushed conclusion, and GameGrin mentions repetitive race scenarios despite strong voice acting. Meristation argues that the story prioritizes entertainment over realism, relying on exaggerated conflicts, while Hardcore Gamer questions the narrative’s flow during longer races. These critiques suggest that while the story mode is ambitious, its structure and originality face challenges in maintaining consistency. Overall, critics agree that F1 23’s Braking Point 2 is a compelling addition to the franchise, though it walks a fine line between immersive storytelling and formulaic execution. IGN and Eurogamer Poland praise its improved narrative depth and unexpected developments, while GameStar and CD-Action highlight its cinematic quality and multi-threaded plot. However, many feel it leans too heavily on familiar tropes, with God is a Geek calling it "somewhat predictable" and GGRecon noting limited character growth. Despite these shortcomings, the story mode remains a highlight for fans of narrative-driven racing games, offering a unique blend of drama and competition that sets it apart from pure simulation experiences. The mixed reception underscores its appeal to enthusiasts but also highlights areas where future iterations could innovate further.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

F1 23 delivers a polished, immersive racing experience with refined physics, responsive handling, and Precision Drive Tech that bridges simulation and arcade fun. While praised for realism, career modes, and accessibility, it faces minor critiques over AI difficulty, multiplayer bugs, and microtransactions—yet its strengths far outweigh flaws, cementing it as the series’ best yet.

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 been widely praised for its refined mechanics, improved physics, and accessibility, with many critics highlighting significant strides in realism and player engagement. Reviewers like Twinfinite and GAMES.CH emphasized the game’s responsive handling, noting enhancements in acceleration, braking, and cornering that make driving feel more natural and immersive. The introduction of Precision Drive Technology, as highlighted by Push Square and GamingBolt, has been a standout feature, offering tighter controls and a smoother experience for both casual and hardcore players. GGRecon and KeenGamer praised the improved handling physics, new circuit layouts, and the inclusion of split-screen co-op, while IGN Japan and Eurogamer Poland lauded the realistic driving experience and challenges like podium finishes. The game’s career modes, such as F1 World and My Team, were also celebrated for their depth and variety, with TechRadar Gaming and TRG noting their ability to cater to diverse player preferences. Overall, the gameplay feels more polished and engaging than its predecessors, with a strong focus on balancing simulation and arcade-style fun. Despite these positives, some critics pointed out minor flaws and areas for improvement. GamersRD noted that while new circuits and driving functions are present, the game lacks major innovation in its simulation aspects. CD-Action and Multiplayer.it criticized the lack of difficulty customization for AI opponents, which could limit replayability for some players. Windows Central highlighted issues with multiplayer, including inconsistent penalties and crashes, while Gamer.nl raised concerns about pay-to-win mechanics due to microtransactions. Additionally, Digital Chumps mentioned occasional throttle response issues, and SomosXbox noted that while the game’s controls are responsive, some features like race length adjustments require further refinement. These critiques, though varied, suggest that while F1 23 is a strong entry in the series, it isn’t without its imperfections. The overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that F1 23 delivers an exceptional gameplay experience. IGN, Gamereactor UK, and Gfinity all praised the game’s improved handling, realistic physics, and accessibility, noting how it bridges the gap between veteran racers and newcomers. While some reviewers like GamersRD and CD-Action pointed to minor shortcomings, these were often framed as nitpicks rather than major drawbacks. The game’s focus on refining core mechanics—such as the Precision Drive Technology, AI behavior, and car physics—has been widely celebrated, with many calling it a significant step forward for the franchise. As Everyeye.it and Metro GameCentral noted, F1 23 feels more polished and immersive than ever, making it a must-play for fans of racing games. Despite its few flaws, the game’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, solidifying its place as one of the best entries in the series.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

F1 23’s graphics are a visual feast—immersive, hyper-realistic, and brimming with detail, from neon-lit night races to ray-traced reflections—but flawed character models, overlooked polish, and incremental upgrades drag down an otherwise stellar experience.

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 graphics and visual design of F1 23 received widespread acclaim, with many critics praising its immersive and realistic presentation. Reviewers like Areajugones and GamingBolt highlighted the game’s "impressive graphics" and "exceptional realism," noting that the improved lighting effects, vibrant color encoding, and detailed car models create a visually stunning experience. The night races, particularly in circuits like Las Vegas and Losail, were frequently lauded for their atmospheric brilliance, with Everyeye.it praising the "stunning" visuals of these tracks and Meristation noting enhanced lighting and smooth frame rates on Xbox Series X. IGN Italia and Metro GameCentral emphasized the game’s near-photorealistic quality, while KeenGamer and Noisy Pixel celebrated the attention to detail in car designs, environments, and real-time ray tracing for reflections. The overall consensus was that F1 23 delivers a visually polished experience that elevates immersion, particularly for fans of Formula 1. Despite these strengths, several critics pointed out notable flaws in the game’s visual design. COGconnected and IGN Italia criticized the "still problematic" character models, while GameOver.gr noted overlooked details like wet track effects that detracted from realism. GAMES.CH and Impulsegamer mentioned a lack of environmental depth and minor issues with reflections, respectively. TechRadar Gaming and TRG pointed to the absence of significant visual upgrades over F1 22, with SomosXbox highlighting "visual bugs" and HDR configuration problems. Additionally, PlaySense noted some animations appeared dated, and Gamereactor UK suggested that certain aspects, like historical cars or tracks, were underdeveloped. These critiques, while varied, collectively indicate that F1 23’s visuals, though impressive, are not without imperfections. The majority of critics agreed that F1 23’s graphics and visual design represent a strong step forward for the series, even if they fell short of revolutionary. GamingBolt and Twinfinite emphasized the game’s "remarkable detail" and immersive branding, while GameGrin and IGN Japan praised its ability to replicate real-world circuits and weather effects. Though some reviewers like Gamereactor UK and TechRadar Gaming felt the visual improvements were incremental, the overall sentiment was overwhelmingly positive. As Areajugones and GameSpew noted, the game’s crisp visuals and smooth 60fps performance on PS5 (and PC) solidify its status as a technical standout. While not flawless, F1 23’s visual design is widely regarded as a significant achievement, balancing authenticity with the demands of a competitive racing simulation.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

F1 23’s sound design is a masterclass in immersive realism, with razor-sharp engine roars, haptic-rich DualSense feedback, and a high-energy EDM soundtrack that nails Formula 1’s intensity—yet its flat commentary and forgettable music fail to elevate the experience beyond technical excellence.

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 critical reception of F1 23’s sound design and music is overwhelmingly positive, with reviewers praising its technical precision and immersive qualities. Multiple critics highlight the game’s exceptional audio fidelity, particularly the realistic engine sounds and dynamic car-specific audio cues. Areajugones notes the “high-quality sound and gameplay mechanics,” while Hardcore Gamer emphasizes how “the car audio sounds fantastic and different based on the model.” Push Square applauds the DualSense integration, stating that “every chicane, gear shift, and bump felt in the palm of your hands,” with the sound design effectively immersing players in the speed of the vehicles. The soundtrack also receives acclaim, with PlaySense calling it “commendable” and GamingTrend noting a “high-energy soundtrack with 34 electronic tracks from renowned artists.” Additionally, Noisy Pixel and Merlin'in Kazanı commend the game’s ability to capture the essence of Formula 1 through engine roars, tire screeches, and ambient crowd noise, while Impulsegamer and Generación Xbox appreciate the inclusion of customizable voices and languages for added immersion. Despite these strengths, some critics point to notable shortcomings, particularly in the commentary and soundtrack memorability. TechRadar Gaming and TRG criticize the “basic and poor commentary” lacking “realistic flair,” while Shacknews notes that race commentary feels “disconnected from reality.” SomosXbox also mentions that the soundtrack, though well-selected, lacks “memorable elements,” and Twinfinite’s praise for the music is tempered by a lack of detailed analysis. Additionally, while GameGrin highlights an accessible electronic soundtrack, some reviewers feel the variety of EDM options doesn’t fully capitalize on its potential to elevate the racing experience. These critiques suggest that while the technical aspects of sound design are lauded, certain elements—particularly the narrative and musical composition—fall short of expectations. Overall, the consensus among critics is that F1 23’s sound design and music represent a significant step forward in immersion and realism, with most praising its attention to detail and technical execution. The game’s ability to replicate the visceral experience of Formula 1 through engine sounds, haptic feedback, and dynamic audio cues has been widely celebrated, as seen in reviews from GameSpew, PlaySense, and Push Square. However, the commentary and soundtrack, while functional, are seen as areas needing improvement. Despite these minor criticisms, the majority of reviewers agree that the audio elements significantly enhance the racing experience, making F1 23 a standout title in terms of auditory immersion. The mixed feedback on specific aspects like commentary and music underscores a game that excels in technical execution but leaves room for refinement in its narrative and musical depth.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critical acclaim for F1 23's voice acting highlights its authenticity and technical polish, with praise for Vanzini-Valsecchi’s commentary and immersive cutscenes, though some critique overly dramatic dialogue, scripted lines, and missing voices like Will Buxton—yet overall, it remains a standout strength enhancing immersion.

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 receives widespread praise from multiple critics, with several highlighting its authenticity and technical quality. Everyeye.it commends the "expertly commented cutscenes" by Vanzini-Valsecchi, while IGN Italia notes that the technical commentary is handled by the same duo, emphasizing their professionalism. Noisy Pixel praises the voice acting as "excellent," enhancing the game’s racing community atmosphere, and PLAY! Zine applauds the pre-rendered sequences for their "excellent facial animations and voice performances." Similarly, TechRadar Gaming and TRG both highlight the "well-acted" Braking Point campaign, with TRG specifically noting entertaining cutscenes. These reviews collectively underscore the strong foundation of the voice acting, particularly in storytelling and commentary, which many feel elevates the game’s immersion. However, some critics point to specific shortcomings. The Games Machine criticizes the commentators’ performance, suggesting a language change to English for fresh voices, while Windows Central critiques the "overly dramatic" and sometimes nonsensical dialogue in the story mode. Meristation and SomosXbox note that Pedro Martínez de la Rosa’s delivery feels "scripted," contrasting with Antonio Lobato’s more natural performance. CD-Action mentions the absence of Will Buxton in interviews, replaced by Natalie Pinkham, which may disappoint fans of the previous commentary style. Additionally, PlaySense acknowledges that while voice acting is commendable, it could benefit from improvements in animations and cutscenes. These critiques highlight inconsistencies in execution, particularly in narrative depth and character authenticity. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus leans positively, with most reviewers recognizing the voice acting as a significant strength. The majority praise the technical commentary, storytelling integration, and the performances of key voices like Vanzini-Valsecchi and Lobato. While issues such as scripted dialogue, overly dramatic tones, and specific commentator choices are noted, they do not overshadow the general acclaim. Critics like IGN Italia and Noisy Pixel emphasize how the voice acting enhances immersion, while even those with reservations acknowledge its technical merits. The mixed feedback reflects a game that excels in many areas but has room for refinement in narrative delivery and character dynamics.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

F1 23 shines on PS5 with silky performance and stability, but PC and Xbox versions grapple with optimization hiccups, bugs, and glitches—though its core mechanics and visuals remain top-tier across all platforms.

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 platforms shows a generally positive reception, particularly on the PlayStation 5. Reviewers like GameSpew and Hardcore Gamer praised its smooth operation, with the latter noting 4K resolution at 60 FPS and reliable online connectivity. Noisy Pixel highlighted the game’s flawless performance on PS5, emphasizing the DualSense controller’s adaptive features, while Push Square and PlaySense commended its improved stability and reduced bugs compared to previous iterations. On PC, GamersRD lauded the game’s ability to run at 104 FPS with DLSS 3 and Frame Generation technologies, and Eurogamer Poland noted it as well-optimized despite minor glitches. For Xbox Series X, Meristation praised its enhanced visuals and smooth frame rates, while Guardian highlighted improved handling and physics using a gamepad. However, technical issues persist across platforms. On PS5, Everyeye.it pointed to collision problems and minor glitches, while IGN Italia mentioned bugs in the Career mode. Impulsegamer criticized PC optimization, citing inconsistent car performance and major bugs like malfunctioning red flags. Gfinity reported crashes in specific modes on PC, and Windows Central noted multiplayer instability with loading screen issues. On Xbox Series X, SomosXbox highlighted visual bugs and HDR configuration problems, while GamingTrend criticized VR presentation flaws and the lack of a training mode. IGN Japan also mentioned persistent loading times and replay bugs despite ongoing patches. Overall, the consensus leans toward F1 23 being a polished and technically robust title, particularly on PS5, where most reviewers highlighted its stability and performance. While PC and Xbox versions faced some optimization challenges—such as Impulsegamer’s concerns about PC bugs or SomosXbox’s visual issues—the game’s core mechanics and graphical fidelity were widely praised. Critics like GamersRD and Meristation underscored the technical strengths of high-end hardware, while others, such as Gfinity and IGN Japan, pointed to lingering flaws that could be addressed in future updates. Despite platform-specific quirks, F1 23 appears to deliver a largely satisfying technical experience across its supported systems.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

F1 23 delivers stellar replay value via F1 World’s dynamic hub, seasonal events, and multiplayer depth, but microtransactions, repetitive career modes, and limited classic content drag down its potential—its structured progression and customization make it a must-play for fans despite flaws.

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 majority of critics highlight F1 23’s robust replay value through its diverse content and innovative modes. Areajugones emphasizes the "extensive content and modes for replayability," while COGconnected notes that the game caters to both newcomers and veterans with varied options. Digital Chumps praises the "F1 World" hub, which allows players to create avatars, build teams, and engage in seasonal events, enhancing long-term engagement. GamingBolt and IGN Italia commend F1 World’s "seasonal events and shared progression," comparing it to Braking Point 2 in terms of longevity. Additionally, Everyeye.it and Push Square highlight the game’s multiplayer depth, including ranked modes, cross-play divisions, and daily/weekly challenges, which keep players invested. The inclusion of progression systems like the Podium Pass (GamingBolt) and RPG-like leveling (Hardcore Gamer) further bolsters replayability, offering structured goals and cosmetic rewards. However, several critics point to limitations that could hinder replay value. Atomix criticizes the game’s microtransactions, which may detract from the experience for some players. Hardcore Gamer expresses disappointment over the lack of classic cars and track options, while Twinfinite and Dexerto note issues with F1 World’s "loot box approach" and a story mode with "zero replayability." CD-Action and Meristation mention that F1 World lacks challenge for experienced players and historical content, respectively. Additionally, some critics, like Windows Central, argue that the multiplayer experience feels underdeveloped compared to single-player modes. These critiques suggest that while the game offers substantial content, certain design choices—such as monetization strategies or repetitive elements in career modes—may reduce its appeal for specific audiences. Overall, the consensus among critics is largely positive, with most agreeing that F1 23 delivers strong replay value through its variety of modes and progression systems. TechRadar Gaming and IGN Adria praise the "wealth of content" and "comprehensive online racing experience," while Digital Chumps and Push Square highlight how F1 World’s structured challenges and seasonal updates keep players engaged. However, there is a notable divide over specific aspects: some critics (e.g., GamingBolt, IGN) acknowledge that replayability may depend on personal preferences for curated campaigns versus live-service-style modes. Despite these nuances, the game’s emphasis on customization, multiplayer depth, and evolving content—such as F2 car additions (Everyeye.it) and split-screen co-op (GGRecon)—positions it as a compelling long-term experience for Formula 1 fans.

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 majority of critics praised F1 23 for its technical polish, immersive gameplay, and significant improvements over its predecessor. Guardian highlighted the game’s “technically magnificent” presentation and “plenty of novelty,” while Push Square and Gfinity lauded its refined handling and accessibility for both casual and hardcore players. The narrative mode Braking Point 2 was a standout feature, with VideoGamer calling it an “impressive narrative mode” and TheSixthAxis praising its “compelling story mode.” Meristation and GameGrin emphasized the game’s exceptional driving mechanics, visual upgrades, and diverse gameplay modes, calling it a “highly recommended purchase for racing enthusiasts.” Critics like KeenGamer and GamingBolt noted the addition of features such as Precision Drive Technology and improved vehicle physics, while others, including GameStar and SpazioGames, celebrated its dynamic storytelling and stable technical performance. The game’s ability to balance realism with accessibility was a recurring theme, with GAMES.CH praising its customization options for players of all skill levels. Despite these strengths, several critics pointed out notable flaws. Guardian and Gamer.nl raised concerns about the presence of loot boxes, which they felt “cheapened” the experience, though they noted it wasn’t forced on players. The lack of innovation in Career Mode was a common critique, with VideoGamer and TheSixthAxis pointing out that it “lacks innovation” and “still has long-standing issues.” Technical issues also surfaced, including multiplayer problems like “loading screen problems and inconsistent penalties” (Windows Central) and “disconnected commentary” (Shacknews). Some critics, such as GamersRD and Eurogamer Poland, felt the game relied too heavily on familiar mechanics without significant updates, while Everyeye.it and IGN Italia noted room for improvement in graphics and AI. Additionally, TheEnemy mentioned a lack of details on technical aspects like sound design, and GamingTrend highlighted VR-related shortcomings. These criticisms, though varied, underscored the game’s uneven execution in certain areas despite its overall quality. Overall, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with many calling F1 23 the best entry in the series to date. Push Square described it as a “solid racing experience that improves upon its predecessor,” while GameGrin and LevelUp hailed it as the “most comprehensive Formula 1 game” and “the most complete and best game in the franchise.” Even critics who noted flaws, such as IGN Portugal and Noisy Pixel, acknowledged its progress and potential for future growth. The game’s blend of refined mechanics, engaging storytelling, and visual fidelity earned it widespread acclaim, with many recommending it to both fans and newcomers. While some issues persisted—particularly around monetization and technical polish—the majority of reviewers agreed that F1 23 represents a significant step forward, solidifying its place as a standout title in the racing genre. As GamingBolt noted, it “poised to be the biggest entry in the series yet,” reflecting the broad enthusiasm for its improvements and ambition.

TL;DR

F1 23 dazzles with technical finesse, immersive racing, and a stellar narrative mode, but struggles with loot boxes, stagnant Career Mode, and glitchy multiplayer—proving a near-perfect entry for fans despite its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

103 reviews found

Atomix

PlayStation 5

Jun 16, 2023