F1 2013

Visually impressive and mechanically astounding, Codemasters has proved once again that they are one of the best racing game developers on the market. F1 2013 captures the raw emotion and breakneck speeds of Formula 1, complete with some seriously gorgeous visuals that are as photorealistic as it gets.

Along with Grid and Dirt, Codemasters has now completed the perfect trifecta of racing games of modern gaming. Although at first glance it might seem that this is a game exclusively for Formula 1 fans, one of the most impressive feats of this game is how accessible it makes the racing feel.

Top Speed

Unlike other racing games, F1 2013 is based on a highly tactical sport: Formula racing isn’t as fashionable as the races we see in games like Need for Speed Underground, but it is every bit as good.

F1 2013 is a simulation game: you won’t find any wacky powerups or unrealistic handling here. This is a game for players who are looking for the most realistic racing experience possible, so it might not appeal as much to those who would prefer a more arcadey racing game.

Flashy Cars

Powered by Codemasters’ own Ego engine, the graphics in F1 2013 are top-notch. If you’re not familiar with this engine, suffice to say that it is the same one used in other Codemaster titles like Dirt 3 and Grid 2.

The visuals in this game are simply stunning: car models are insanely detailed, with reflective surfaces that look incredible under any weather condition. Speaking of weather, the game’s environments are also a thing of beauty, with carefully crafted recreations of some of the most important real-life racing circuits.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a Formula 1 game without the proper sound quality. Every engine looks like the real deal, giving the cars an extra level of realism. There’s also visible damage whenever you carelessly bump another car. This damage can be felt in gameplay and is also realistically applied to your car’s in-game model.

Race for the Grand Prix

Just like a real Formula 1 season, F1 2013 contains nineteen circuits and the corresponding Grand Prix of the 2013 season. If you’re looking to hone your skills before taking on bigger challenges, the game offers a handful of different gameplay modes to get you accustomed to the world of Formula 1 racing.

New to this version of the game is the challenging Classic Mode; here, players will sit behind the wheel of a classic car in Formula 1 history. These vehicles from the 80s and 90s are harder to controls than their modern counterparts and are only recommended for seasoned players looking for a challenge.

Additionally, with the game’s Classic Mode also come new classic tracks. These racetracks are brought to life from important moments in the history of Formula 1. A nice little detail is that the HUD changes ever so slightly depending on the decade players are racing in.

This is a game where details matter – and Codemasters seem to have nailed the mechanics to perfection. It’s also worth mentioning that the game is compatible with racing wheels, and that’s actually how it should be played if you want the ultimate driving experience.

Pros:

• Incredible graphics
• Tight controls
• Handling feels phenomenal

Cons:

• AI can be genuinely tough to beat