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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 One, Xbox Series X

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 delivers an immersive and engaging Formula 1 experience with strong team management elements and a compelling narrative, particularly around guiding teams like Williams Racing. Critics praise its strategic depth, but note it lacks complexity for players seeking a more challenging simulation. Overall, it's a solid choice for F1 fans, though some may find it simplistic.

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 for F1 Manager 2023 reflect a generally positive sentiment regarding the game's immersive experience and its faithful representation of the Formula 1 world. Critics like MondoXbox appreciate the game's engaging introduction, which effectively sets the tone for the high-stakes atmosphere of Formula 1 racing. The emphasis on team management, as highlighted by PC Games and BaziCenter, allows players to delve into the intricacies of leading a team, making strategic decisions that impact performance. Softpedia notes the ability to choose from various teams and pursue specific objectives, which adds a layer of depth to the gameplay. Additionally, TechRadar Gaming's focus on the narrative of guiding a struggling team, particularly Williams Racing, adds an emotional dimension to the managerial experience, enhancing player engagement. However, some critics point out limitations that detract from the overall experience. SECTOR.sk mentions that while the game allows for team management and decision-making, the core premise remains relatively simple, suggesting a lack of depth in gameplay mechanics. This sentiment may indicate that while the game is enjoyable, it might not offer enough complexity for players seeking a more challenging simulation. Furthermore, the focus on teamwork behind the scenes, as noted by BaziCenter, could be seen as an area where the game could expand further to provide a richer experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that F1 Manager 2023 successfully captures the essence of being a Formula 1 team manager, offering a compelling blend of strategy and immersion. While the game has its shortcomings, particularly in terms of gameplay complexity, the positive aspects—such as the engaging narrative and the focus on team dynamics—create a solid foundation for fans of the genre. Critics like MondoXbox and TechRadar Gaming highlight the game's strengths, suggesting that it is a worthwhile experience for those interested in the intricacies of Formula 1 racing, even if it may not fully satisfy players looking for a more intricate simulation.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023 impresses with its deep management mechanics and engaging gameplay, earning praise for features like tire wear simulation and strategic race decisions. Critics highlight its balance of realism and excitement, enhanced by new mechanics like driver readiness ratings. However, some express disappointment over a lack of innovation from its predecessor and call for refinement in areas like tire strategies. Overall, it’s viewed as a solid, addictive simulation that caters well to both newcomers and series veterans, despite some critiques on freshness.

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 has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its depth and engaging management mechanics. Reviewers such as Eurogamer Germany and MondoXbox emphasize the intricate management experience that allows players to oversee various aspects of a Formula 1 team, including tire wear simulation, driver contracts, and strategic decisions during races. Critics from GAMES.CH and Generación Xbox note the balance between realism and excitement, with features like Race Replay and Exclusive Scenarios enhancing the gameplay experience. The inclusion of new mechanics, such as driver readiness ratings and improved pit crew management, as mentioned by Xbox Tavern, further enriches the strategic elements of the game, making it appealing to fans of the genre. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics, like Multiplayer.it and SECTOR.sk, express concerns about the lack of significant innovation compared to the previous installment, suggesting that while the gameplay remains enjoyable, it may not feel fresh for returning players. Additionally, some reviews indicate that certain aspects, such as tire strategies and race dynamics, still require refinement, as noted by SomosXbox and But Why Tho?. This sentiment is echoed by Everyeye.it, which points out that while there are improvements, the gameplay retains a familiar feel that may not satisfy those seeking a groundbreaking experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that F1 Manager 2023 successfully delivers a comprehensive and immersive management simulation that appeals to both new players and dedicated fans of Formula 1. The game is praised for its depth and strategic gameplay, with many reviewers, including Digital Chumps and The Loadout, highlighting the enjoyable and addictive nature of managing a racing team. While there are some critiques regarding innovation and certain gameplay mechanics, the overall sentiment leans towards a positive reception, indicating that F1 Manager 2023 is a worthy addition to the series, providing a solid foundation for future iterations.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023 impresses with stunning car and track visuals, enhanced by new camera angles, earning praise for its immersive race environments. However, it suffers from issues like lifeless character models, texture loading problems, and recycled graphics, leaving critics divided on its overall visual quality. While it captures the essence of Formula 1, significant improvements are needed in character animations and surrounding details to truly elevate the experience.

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 have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly regarding the impressive representation of cars, tracks, and overall race environments. Reviewers such as MondoXbox and BaziCenter have highlighted the stunning visuals that closely replicate real-life Formula 1 events, emphasizing the detailed car models and immersive environments. The inclusion of multiple camera angles, including the new Visor Cam, has also been praised for enhancing the gameplay experience, allowing players to feel more connected to the action on the track. Critics like Eurogamer and SECTOR.sk noted that the graphics are impressive for a management game, showcasing the developers' efforts to create a visually appealing product that stands out in its genre. However, despite these positive aspects, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. Eurogamer Germany criticized the uncanny character models and lifeless podium celebrations, while Generación Xbox mentioned texture loading issues and graphical errors that detracted from the overall experience. Other reviewers, such as GamingBolt and TheSixthAxis, echoed concerns about rigid animations and unimpressive designs for staff and drivers, indicating that while the cars and tracks may look great, the surrounding elements often fall short. Additionally, critics like PC Gamer and Worth Playing noted that many graphical aspects seemed recycled from previous iterations, suggesting a lack of substantial innovation in this area. Overall, the consensus among critics is that F1 Manager 2023 presents a visually appealing experience, particularly in terms of car and track design, but is marred by inconsistencies in character models and animations. While some reviewers, such as Digitally Downloaded and God is a Geek, praised the visual improvements and the game's strong presentation, others highlighted the need for further refinement, particularly in character animations and texture quality. This mixed reception indicates that while the game successfully captures the essence of Formula 1 visually, there are still areas that require attention to elevate the overall graphical experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023 impresses critics with authentic sound design, including real team radios and iconic themes, enhancing the racing experience. However, it lacks dynamic commentary and suffers from audio glitches, which detract from its overall quality. While praised for its immersive atmosphere, there's significant room for improvement in future updates.

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 have received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's commitment to authenticity and immersion. Many reviewers, such as Everyeye.it and Gamereactor UK, praised the inclusion of real team radio samples and the iconic Formula 1 theme, which significantly enhances the racing experience. Critics like MondoXbox and Worth Playing also noted how the sound effects contribute to the overall atmosphere, creating an engaging environment for players. The ambient sounds, particularly the realistic engine noises and the radio communications between drivers and their teams, were frequently commended, with Generación Xbox specifically mentioning the realism of these elements. However, despite the praise, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music. Generación Xbox and Multiplayer.it both expressed concerns regarding the lack of a commentator during races, which could have added a layer of excitement and engagement. Additionally, TheXboxHub mentioned glitches in voiceovers during race weekends, indicating inconsistencies in audio quality. While some reviewers, like Softpedia, acknowledged the use of official commentators, they also noted that audio communication could become repetitive, suggesting a need for more variety in the sound design. Overall, the consensus among critics is that F1 Manager 2023 features strong sound design and music that enhances the immersive experience, but it also has areas that require improvement. While the realistic engine sounds and authentic team communications are well-received, the absence of dynamic commentary and occasional audio glitches detract from the overall quality. Critics such as Eurogamer and IGN highlighted specific elements that contribute positively to the game's audio, but the recurring issues point to a need for refinement in future updates or installments. Thus, while F1 Manager 2023 excels in creating an authentic racing atmosphere, it still has room for growth in its sound design and music elements.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023's voice acting is praised for its realism and immersion, enhancing the gaming experience with authentic driver and engineer communications. However, critics highlight glitches, stilted dialogue, and a lack of engaging interactions outside races as significant drawbacks. While the strong commentary from David Croft and Karun Chandhok adds depth, technical issues and inconsistent execution hinder its overall impact, leaving room for improvement in future updates.

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 has received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its contribution to the game's immersion and authenticity. Generación Xbox praised the realistic radio communications between drivers and their teams, indicating that the inclusion of real voices enhances the overall experience. Similarly, both Worth Playing and BaziCenter noted the authenticity brought by the real voices of drivers and race engineers, which adds a layer of realism that fans of the sport can appreciate. MondoXbox's mention of the full Italian localization, including voice acting, further emphasizes the game's commitment to engaging players in their native language, which is a significant plus for immersion. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. TheXboxHub pointed out glitches in voiceovers during race weekends, suggesting that technical issues may detract from the experience. Additionally, Screen Rant criticized the real-world dialogue as being stilted, which could lead to a less engaging experience for players who value fluidity in voice interactions. PC Gamer's brief mention of real-life drivers' voices lacked depth, indicating that while the concept is appealing, the execution may not have fully met expectations. Softpedia's comment about the need for more pilot interactions outside of races also suggests that the voice acting could benefit from additional content to enhance player engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in F1 Manager 2023 adds a significant level of authenticity and immersion, there are notable drawbacks that prevent it from being universally praised. Critics like SECTOR.sk appreciated the well-prepared commentary from David Croft and Karun Chandhok, which enhances the experience, but the presence of glitches and stilted dialogue as noted by TheXboxHub and Screen Rant indicates that there is room for improvement. Ultimately, the voice acting is a strong feature of the game, but it is marred by technical issues and inconsistent execution that could be addressed in future updates.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023's technical performance is inconsistent across platforms. While the Xbox Series X shows stable gameplay, critics report issues like AI glitches and graphical errors. PC players face mixed reviews with some enjoying smooth play, while others encounter physics problems. The PS5 version also suffers from various bugs. Overall, the game has potential but needs further patches to resolve these performance issues for a smoother experience.

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 has garnered a mixed reception across different gaming platforms. On the Xbox Series X, several critics noted that the game runs relatively well, with Multiplayer.it and MondoXbox highlighting stable performance without major issues. Windows Central also confirmed that the game operates smoothly on both PC and Xbox Series S/X, which is a positive indicator for players on those platforms. This suggests that, at least for some users, the experience can be quite enjoyable, with gameplay that does not frequently break immersion. However, the negative aspects of the technical performance are more pronounced, especially on the Xbox Series X. Eurogamer Germany and Generación Xbox reported various technical issues, including cluttered menus, AI glitches, and graphical errors like rain appearing in tunnels and cars without tires in replays. TheXboxHub noted voiceover glitches, adding to the list of concerns. On the PC front, while some reviews like SpazioGames mentioned smooth performance, others such as Everyeye.it and Softpedia pointed out issues with car physics and unrealistic racing behaviors. Screen Rant echoed these sentiments, mentioning bugs and glitches that detract from the overall experience. On the PS5, both SECTOR.sk and TheSixthAxis reported technical issues, including graphical and AI problems, indicating that the platform is not immune to performance flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while F1 Manager 2023 shows potential for a solid gaming experience, technical performance remains inconsistent across platforms. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and Generación Xbox have raised significant concerns about the Xbox Series X version, while PC players have experienced a mix of stability and physics-related issues. The PS5 version also faces criticism for various bugs and graphical problems. This indicates that the game may require further patches and updates to address these technical shortcomings and provide a more polished experience for all players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023 is praised for its replay value, thanks to engaging modes like Race Replay and Exclusive Scenarios, alongside a robust Career Mode and online multiplayer. However, critics warn of potential long-term disengagement due to a lack of significant innovations from previous versions and missing features like a 'my team' mode. While it’s a solid addition for F1 and management fans, its longevity and depth may leave seasoned players wanting more.

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 overall sentiment regarding the replay value of F1 Manager 2023 is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting the game's various modes that enhance replayability. Reviewers from Eurogamer Germany, Jeuxvideo.com, and MondoXbox all emphasize the significance of the Race Replay mode and the introduction of Exclusive Scenarios, which allow players to relive key moments from the season and experiment with different strategies. Critics like God is a Geek and TheXboxHub also point out that the Career Mode offers substantial content, providing players with the opportunity to engage deeply with the game over multiple seasons. The inclusion of online multiplayer, as mentioned by Areajugones, adds another layer of replay value, appealing to competitive players. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's long-term replayability. Multiplayer.it and SECTOR.sk express concerns that the lack of significant changes from previous iterations may limit engagement for players who have experienced earlier versions of the game. Additionally, some critics, such as PC Gamer and COGconnected, mention that while the game provides a wealth of content, they do not elaborate on the replay value, suggesting a potential lack of depth in certain areas. Furthermore, Everyeye.it and PC Games highlight the absence of a 'my team' mode and custom team creation, which could detract from the overall replay experience for some players. In summary, while the majority of critics agree that F1 Manager 2023 offers a solid replay value through its diverse modes and features, there are underlying concerns about its longevity and depth for seasoned players. The consensus indicates that the Race Replay and Exclusive Scenarios are significant draws, but the game may not provide enough new content to keep all players engaged over time. Critics like Digital Chumps and The Loadout underscore the game's potential to captivate players, yet the absence of certain features and the risk of repetitiveness could hinder its appeal in the long run. Overall, F1 Manager 2023 is seen as a commendable addition to the genre, particularly for fans of Formula 1 and management simulations.

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.

F1 Manager 2023 has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, particularly for its engaging gameplay and improvements over its predecessor. Reviewers like MondoXbox and The Loadout highlight the game's successful combination of complexity and accessibility, making it an enjoyable experience for both seasoned fans and newcomers to Formula 1 management. The visuals and attention to detail have also been praised, with critics such as Areajugones and God is a Geek commending the impressive graphics and sound design. The introduction of new features, such as the Driver Confidence system and Race Replay mode, has been noted as a significant enhancement that adds depth to the management experience, with Xbox Tavern asserting that it is the best F1 Manager game yet. Despite these positives, several critics have pointed out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Generación Xbox and Multiplayer.it express disappointment regarding the game's lack of substantial improvements and new content, suggesting that it feels more like an incremental update rather than a fully realized sequel. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com and SECTOR.sk echo similar sentiments, criticizing the game for its lack of depth compared to other management titles in the genre. Additionally, some reviewers have mentioned issues with AI behavior and menu clarity during races, indicating that while the game has made strides forward, it still has room for refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that F1 Manager 2023 is a solid installment that appeals primarily to Formula 1 enthusiasts. While many acknowledge the game's improvements and engaging gameplay, there is a shared sentiment that it falls short of delivering a groundbreaking experience. Critics such as Eurogamer and PC Gamer emphasize that the game is fun and enjoyable, but it still needs to address certain flaws and enhance its depth and content to fully satisfy both new players and returning fans. As a result, F1 Manager 2023 is seen as a step in the right direction, but not without its limitations, leaving room for future iterations to build upon its foundation.

TL;DR

F1 Manager 2023 impresses with engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and new features like the Driver Confidence system, earning praise as a solid, enjoyable title, especially for fans. However, critics note it lacks substantial improvements and depth compared to competitors, feeling more like an incremental update. While it's a step forward, it still has notable flaws, particularly in AI behavior and menu clarity, leaving room for future enhancements.

MONSTER

Reviews

49 reviews found

Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Aug 3, 2023