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F1 Manager 2023

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of F1 Manager 2023
Item: F1 Manager 2023
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresSimulation, Sports, Strategy, Single Player, Racing

AvailableJul 27, 2023

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

DeveloperFrontier Developments

Overview

F1 Manager 2023 gives you unparalleled control of your chosen F1 team, with rich and detailed management features, refined racing spectacle, deeper authenticity and a brand-new mode that allows you to rewrite the season on your terms.Drive every decision and become the best team on the grid across the official 2023 F1 season and beyond.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023 nails immersion with strategic depth and narrative flair, but its simple mechanics and narrow focus on select teams risk alienating hardcore sim fans—accessibility over complexity makes it a hit for casual players, not a deep dive for diehards.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

83%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews of F1 Manager 2023 highlight its strengths in immersing players in the role of a Formula 1 team manager, with several critics praising its focus on strategic depth and narrative engagement. MondoXbox emphasizes the game’s opening fanfare and attention to detail in presenting teams and drivers like Max Verstappen, creating an authentic F1 atmosphere. PC Games and Softpedia both commend the core mechanic of managing a team, whether through choosing one of ten squads or pursuing specific objectives, which adds replayability. TechRadar Gaming highlights the narrative angle of guiding a struggling team—particularly Williams Racing—to success, while BaziCenter underscores the importance of behind-the-scenes teamwork, reinforcing the game’s emphasis on collaboration. SECTOR.sk also notes the decision-making aspect, suggesting players’ choices directly impact outcomes, which enhances engagement. These perspectives collectively paint a picture of a game that effectively captures the complexities of F1 management through varied but complementary angles. While most reviews are positive, some critics point to limitations in the game’s scope and depth. SECTOR.sk explicitly notes that the core premise remains “simple,” implying that the mechanics may lack the complexity expected from a simulation-focused title. This sentiment could suggest that while the game is accessible and engaging for casual players, it might not satisfy those seeking intricate systems or long-term strategic challenges. Additionally, the focus on specific teams like Williams Racing (TechRadar Gaming) or Max Verstappen (MondoXbox) could be seen as narrowing the experience, potentially leaving some fans of other teams feeling underrepresented. Though these critiques are subtle, they hint at a game that prioritizes approachability over exhaustive depth, which may appeal to some but not all audiences. The overall consensus among critics is that F1 Manager 2023 succeeds as an engaging and accessible management simulation, offering a compelling glimpse into the world of Formula 1. While SECTOR.sk’s comment on simplicity raises questions about its longevity, the majority of reviewers—such as MondoXbox, PC Games, and Softpedia—celebrate its ability to blend strategy with narrative, making it appealing to both F1 enthusiasts and management game fans. The varied perspectives from different platforms (XBOX, PC, PS5) also highlight the game’s broad appeal, though some critics like TechRadar Gaming and BaziCenter emphasize specific elements that add unique value. Ultimately, the reviews suggest a well-rounded experience that balances accessibility with depth, even if it doesn’t fully satisfy those craving more complexity.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023 delivers intricate, simulation-heavy management depth with standout car development, race strategy, and tire systems, hailed as a must-play for Formula 1 fans. Yet its incremental upgrades, repetitive mechanics, and unresolved flaws—like undercooked tire dynamics—hold it back, leaving it feeling stagnant despite its polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of F1 Manager 2023 is widely praised for its depth, complexity, and immersive management mechanics. Critics highlight its focus on team principal responsibilities, including car development, driver contracts, budgeting, and race strategy. Eurogamer Germany emphasizes elements like tire wear simulation and race replay modes, while Generación Xbox and MondoXbox commend the inclusion of new features such as Race Replay and Exclusive Scenarios. TheXboxHub and TechRadar Gaming praise the game’s strategic decision-making, noting its ability to balance tactical planning with the thrill of racing. Reviews from PC Gamer and SpazioGames also highlight improvements in areas like pit crew management, driver confidence systems, and tire strategy, which add layers of realism. Many critics, including Gamereactor UK and God is a Geek, laud the game’s simulation depth, calling it an engaging experience for fans of Formula 1’s strategic intricacies. However, some reviewers point to limitations in innovation and originality. Multiplayer.it notes that gameplay remains largely similar to its predecessor, with only incremental improvements in contract management and car development. SECTOR.sk criticizes the lack of significant new features compared to previous installments, while Xbox Tavern mentions lingering issues with tire compounds and strategies. Additionally, some critics, like PC Games and Screen Rant, suggest that while the game’s mechanics are robust, they can feel overwhelming or repetitive, particularly for newcomers. The review from But Why Tho? acknowledges improvements in race-day dynamics but implies that certain systems, such as driver tactics, still require refinement. These critiques highlight a sense of stagnation in core gameplay despite incremental updates. Overall, the consensus among critics is that F1 Manager 2023 delivers a rich and detailed management experience, particularly for fans of Formula 1’s technical and strategic aspects. While many praise its complexity—such as the intricate car development systems (as noted by COGconnected) and immersive career modes (mentioned by MondoXbox)—others feel it lacks the bold innovations needed to distinguish itself from prior entries. The game is seen as a solid, if not revolutionary, addition to the series, with its strengths lying in its depth and attention to detail. Reviews from Eurogamer and IGN underscore its appeal as a simulation that rewards strategic thinking, while the broader community acknowledges it as a must-play for enthusiasts despite its shortcomings.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023 dazzles with hyper-realistic cars and immersive Visor Cam but falters with stiff animations, poor character models, and texture flaws, blending brilliance with technical shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

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 Manager 2023 received generally positive feedback from multiple reviewers, particularly highlighting its attention to detail in cars, tracks, and environments. Eurogamer Germany praised the "great" car models and "stunning visuals" that replicate real-life Formula 1 events, while MondoXbox noted the game’s "detailed cars and environments" and immersive camera angles. Jeuxvideo.com and others emphasized accurate representations of circuits, personnel, and vehicles, with some critics like Generación Xbox appreciating the television-like racing experience through varied camera angles. The inclusion of features such as the Visor Cam was frequently highlighted as a standout element, with TheXboxHub and GGRecon noting its immersive appeal. Additionally, PC Gamer and God is a Geek praised the sharp UI, dynamic animations, and seamless replays, underscoring the game’s visual polish in key areas. However, several critics pointed out significant flaws in animation quality, character models, and technical execution. Eurogamer Germany criticized "uncanny" character models and "jerky" vehicle movements, while Generación Xbox and GamingBolt highlighted texture issues, washed-out designs for staff, and rigid animations. Multiplayer.it and PC Gamer noted minimal visual improvements over previous iterations, with the latter criticizing "recycled animations" and "unrealistic car behavior." TheXboxHub and Jeuxvideo.com (PC) also mentioned inconsistencies in character models and messy animations, while SpazioGames pointed out unconvincing car damage effects. These critiques suggest that while the game’s visuals are impressive overall, certain technical aspects detract from the experience, particularly in areas like character design and fluidity of motion. Overall, the consensus among critics is that F1 Manager 2023 delivers a visually solid experience with notable improvements in car and track fidelity, but it falls short in refining animations, character models, and texture quality. While reviewers like Jeuxvideo.com (Xbox) and Eurogamer Germany acknowledged the game’s strengths in replication of Formula 1 aesthetics, others such as GamingBolt and TheSixthAxis emphasized persistent technical issues. Despite these shortcomings, many praised its immersive presentation and features like the Visor Cam, indicating that while not flawless, the visual design is a strong aspect of the game. The mixed reception reflects a balance between commendable details and areas needing further polish, particularly for a management sim aiming to match the realism of racing titles.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

F1 Manager 2023 dazzles with hyper-realistic cars and immersive Visor Cam but falters with stiff animations, poor character models, and texture flaws, blending brilliance with technical shortcomings.

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023’s sound design shines with authentic engine roars, realistic team radio chatter, and immersive F1 broadcasts, earning praise for its lifelike audio immersion. Yet, repetitive dialogue, glitchy voiceovers, and a lack of commentary drag down the experience, while minor technical flaws like laughable collision sounds and stagnant music innovation linger. A solid foundation with room for sharper polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

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 Manager 2023 received generally positive feedback from multiple reviewers, with a strong emphasis on authenticity and immersion. Critics like Generación Xbox praised the realistic engine ambient sounds and authentic radio communications between drivers and teams, while MondoXbox highlighted the iconic Formula 1 theme and sound effects that enhance the racing atmosphere. Multiplayer.it noted improvements in varied driver-engineer interactions, and Everyeye.it celebrated the inclusion of real team radio samples and a strong soundtrack. Gamereactor UK and PC Gamer both commended the use of real-life driver voices and extensive sound clips, while BaziCenter and Eurogamer emphasized the game’s authentic Formula 1 broadcasts and immersive audio experience. These elements collectively create a believable and engaging environment for fans of the sport. However, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings. Generación Xbox and Multiplayer.it criticized the lack of quality commentary, with the former suggesting the addition of a commentator would elevate the experience. TheXboxHub mentioned voiceover glitches during race weekends, while Softpedia noted repetitive audio communication that could diminish immersion over time. SECTOR.sk also pointed out comically poor collision effects despite otherwise realistic race sounds. Additionally, some reviewers, like Generación Xbox, felt the music and sound design did not significantly evolve from previous installments, indicating a lack of innovation in this area. These critiques highlight areas where the game could improve its audio depth and variety. Overall, the consensus among critics leans toward appreciation for F1 Manager 2023’s authentic and immersive sound design, particularly its realistic engine noises, team radio interactions, and use of real-world audio elements. While there are valid criticisms about repetition, lack of commentary, and minor technical issues, these are often framed as areas for refinement rather than major flaws. Everyeye.it, Gamereactor UK, and IGN all emphasized the value of authentic audio in enhancing the game’s realism, suggesting that the sound design effectively captures the essence of Formula 1 despite its imperfections. The mixed feedback reflects a game that succeeds in delivering an immersive experience but could benefit from further polish in specific audio aspects.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023’s voice acting shines with real-world authenticity, immersive radio chatter, and top-tier commentary, earning praise for its lifelike F1 atmosphere. Yet stilted dialogue, glitches, and limited interactions undermine its potential, revealing gaps in execution despite strong foundations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in F1 Manager 2023 receives largely positive reception, with several critics highlighting its authenticity and immersive qualities. Generación Xbox praises the use of "real voices for radio communications between drivers and the team," emphasizing their realism. MondoXbox commends the full Italian localization, noting that the voice acting enhances immersion, while Softpedia and Worth Playing appreciate the inclusion of official commentators and real race engineers/drivers, which adds "authenticity to the experience." BaziCenter and SECTOR.sk similarly highlight the realistic interactions between drivers, engineers, and commentators, with SECTOR.sk specifically praising David Croft and Karun Chandhok’s commentary for being "well-prepared" and fitting various scenarios. These critiques collectively underscore the game’s effort to replicate real-world F1 dynamics through its audio design. However, some critics point out notable flaws. Screen Rant criticizes the "stilted" dialogue between teams and drivers, suggesting it feels unnatural or forced. TheXboxHub mentions voiceover glitches during race weekends, though they don’t elaborate on how this impacts the acting itself. Softpedia also notes a lack of pilot interactions outside races, implying that the voice work feels limited in scope. Additionally, PC Gamer’s brief mention of "real-life drivers' voices over the radio" lacks depth, hinting at missed opportunities to explore the voice acting further. These critiques reveal that while the audio elements are generally well-received, technical issues and narrative limitations detract from their effectiveness. Overall, the consensus leans positive but acknowledges room for improvement. Most critics agree that the real-world voices and commentary significantly enhance immersion and authenticity, with multiple reviewers (like Generación Xbox, Softpedia, and SECTOR.sk) emphasizing this as a standout feature. However, concerns about stilted dialogue, technical glitches, and limited interaction outside races suggest that the voice acting, while commendable, isn’t without its flaws. The mixed feedback indicates that F1 Manager 2023 succeeds in creating an authentic F1 atmosphere but could benefit from refining its audio execution to match the depth of its simulation mechanics.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023 delivers mixed tech performance: PC and Xbox shine with stable gameplay despite minor bugs, while PS5 struggles with persistent glitches and clunky UI, dragging down its experience. Patches help, but platform-specific issues linger—especially on Sony’s console—leaving a mostly positive but uneven rollout.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of F1 Manager 2023 varies across platforms, with notable positives reported by several critics. On Xbox Series X, MondoXbox and Multiplayer.it highlighted stable performance, while TheXboxHub noted minimal issues despite voiceover glitches. For PC, SpazioGames and VideoGamer praised smooth gameplay after patches, and Windows Central confirmed the game runs well on both PC and Xbox Series S/X. On PS5, SECTOR.sk acknowledged some improvements over previous versions, though critics like TheSixthAxis mentioned graphical/UI issues. Overall, many reviewers found the core mechanics functional, with stability being a recurring positive, especially on PC and Xbox. However, technical flaws were evident across platforms. On Xbox Series X, Eurogamer Germany criticized cluttered menus, AI glitches, and jerky animations, while Generación Xbox noted texture delays and graphical errors like rain in tunnels or missing tires. On PC, Everyeye.it and Softpedia pointed to car physics and collision issues, while Screen Rant highlighted bugs that disrupted immersion. PS5 users faced the most criticism, with SECTOR.sk and TheSixthAxis citing persistent technical problems and AI flaws that detracted from the experience. These issues suggest platform-specific challenges, particularly on PS5, where stability lagged behind other systems. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward improvement over previous iterations. While PC and Xbox Series X received more balanced feedback—acknowledging both smooth performance (e.g., SpazioGames) and lingering bugs (e.g., Eurogamer Germany)—PS5 users faced the most significant hurdles. Critics like Everyeye.it and Softpedia emphasized that while the game’s foundation is solid, refinements are needed for realism and stability. Despite platform-specific issues, many reviewers noted that patches and updates have addressed some problems, indicating a generally positive trajectory for F1 Manager 2023.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023 delivers robust replay value through Race Replay, Career Mode, and scenario-based challenges, but its lack of multiplayer, customization, and repetitive elements dampen long-term appeal for some fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of reviewers highlight F1 Manager 2023’s strong replay value through its innovative features and diverse gameplay modes. Eurogamer Germany, Jeuxvideo.com, MondoXbox, and TheXboxHub emphasize the Race Replay mode, which allows players to re-experience key moments from the 2023 season or rewrite historical outcomes, adding a layer of flexibility and experimentation. Exclusive Scenarios, introduced by Jeuxvideo.com and Multiplayer.it, provide structured challenges that cater to both casual and dedicated fans. Additionally, the Career Mode’s depth—noted by God is a Geek and SpazioGames—is praised for its ability to sustain engagement through multiple seasons, team changes, and tactical decision-making. Online multiplayer (mentioned by Areajugones) and real-time updates (TechRadar Gaming) further enhance the game’s longevity, offering fresh content and competitive opportunities. These elements collectively create a robust foundation for repeated playthroughs, particularly appealing to F1 enthusiasts and simulation fans. However, several critics point out limitations that may hinder long-term replayability. Multiplayer.it notes that the lack of significant changes could reduce engagement over time, while Everyeye.it and PC Games criticize the absence of a "my team" mode and custom team creation, which would add personalization. Issues like the time intervals between drivers in Race Moments (TheXboxHub) and the game’s demanding length for casual players (COGconnected) are also mentioned as drawbacks. Additionally, some reviewers, such as SECTOR.sk, suggest that fans of previous iterations may find little incentive to replay due to incremental updates rather than groundbreaking changes. While features like Sprint races (GRYOnline.pl) and scenario-based challenges (But Why Tho?) add variety, the overall consensus is that these elements are not enough to fully address the game’s repetitive potential for some players. Despite these critiques, the majority of critics agree that F1 Manager 2023 offers substantial replay value, particularly for its target audience. The combination of Race Replay, Career Mode, and scenario-based content (as highlighted by Eurogamer, IGN, and Xbox Tavern) creates a compelling loop for fans of Formula 1 management simulations. While some reviewers, like Digital Chumps, note the game’s depth could lead to extended play sessions, others, such as Screen Rant and Softpedia, emphasize its ability to keep players engaged through variety and real-world relevance. The consensus leans toward a positive assessment, with the game’s strengths in innovation and content outweighing its shortcomings for most audiences. However, the lack of multiplayer (Windows Central) and certain customization options remains a point of contention among critics.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall verdicts for F1 Manager 2023 highlight its incremental improvements and refined mechanics, which many critics praise as a step forward for the series. Eurogamer Germany notes meaningful additions like enhanced AI behavior and clearer menus during races, while MondoXbox commends its balance of complexity and accessibility, calling it an "engaging and immersive experience" for F1 fans. Xbox Tavern celebrates it as Frontier’s best effort yet, highlighting new features such as team changes and improved visuals, and GGRecon lauds it as "a lap ahead of its predecessor," positioning it among the top management sims. The game’s detailed engineering systems, driver confidence mechanics, and updated circuits (as noted by SpazioGames) are frequently cited as strengths, with Jeuxvideo.com praising its "visuals, gameplay, and attention to detail." These positives underscore a game that feels more polished and refined than its predecessor, particularly for dedicated Formula 1 enthusiasts. However, critics also point out several shortcomings that temper the enthusiasm. Generación Xbox and Multiplayer.it argue that F1 Manager 2023 feels more like an update than a revolutionary sequel, with minimal changes to core mechanics and a lack of substantial new content. TheXboxHub and PC Gamer highlight issues such as "steep learning curves" and "flaws in racing and car damage," while Digitally Downloaded criticizes its "lack of depth compared to Football Manager." Others, like Jeuxvideo.com and Everyeye.it, note the game’s limited scope, with some calling out missing features like multiplayer (as Windows Central emphasized) or a personalized career mode (SpazioGames). Additionally, concerns about AI behavior, menu clarity, and repetitive gameplay persist, with Eurogamer Germany and SomosXbox acknowledging progress but stressing that "Frontier is moving in the right direction" rather than delivering a fully realized experience. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among critics leans toward cautious optimism, framing F1 Manager 2023 as a solid, niche title that excels for Formula 1 fans but falls short of being a groundbreaking entry in the management sim genre. While some, like IGN and The Loadout, praise its "compelling motorsports simulation" and "rewarding experience," others, such as GRYOnline.pl and PC Games, acknowledge it as an "improved management experience" with room for growth. The game’s accessibility and depth—highlighted by Eurogamer and Screen Rant—are seen as key strengths, but its limitations in innovation and content retention (as noted by Worth Playing and SECTOR.sk) suggest it will appeal most to existing fans rather than newcomers. Ultimately, the reviews reflect a title that is well-crafted but not without flaws, offering a satisfying yet imperfect management experience for those invested in Formula 1’s intricacies.

TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023 delivers polished mechanics, refined AI, and F1 authenticity that thrill enthusiasts but feels like an evolution, not a revolution—its accessibility and detail shine, yet repetitive gameplay, missing features, and shallow depth leave it stuck in the midfield of management sims.

MONSTER

Reviews

49 reviews found

Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Aug 3, 2023