An exploration of the current state of Codemasters and EA’s F1 games highlights a decline in popularity since 2019/2020, spurred by design challenges and technical issues. While gameplay improvements and modes have been introduced, player dissatisfaction remains high due to bugs and underwhelming features. Suggestions for future updates emphasize enhancing content for F1 2025 and focusing on substantial innovations for F1 26, including potential engine upgrades and improved accessibility to attract new players.
Understanding the Current State of Codemasters and EA’s F1 Games
N.B.: This is an editorial piece reflecting the author’s personal perspective and is not indicative of the editorial team’s views. It aims to spark discussion and provide insight into the future of Codemasters and EA’s F1 racing games, reminiscent of prior discussions from April 2021. Happy reading!
How did we reach this juncture with the F1 license? After peaking during the 2019/2020 season, the franchise has seen a significant drop in popularity. Is this decline justified? Opinions vary widely on the matter. Personally, I’ve found joy in spending countless hours playing on PlayStation 5, particularly appreciating the “Breaking Point” story mode featured in both F1 2021 and F1 23. While it may not be groundbreaking, it does signify a return to scripted content and engaging storytelling for the franchise after a lengthy hiatus since F1 2019.
Game Design Challenges and Player Dissatisfaction
The introduction of new regulations in 2022, which altered real-life F1 design, prompted Codemasters to rethink the driving mechanics in the game. This resulted in a successful overhaul, particularly in enhancing handling and controller feedback. Additionally, modes like Driver Career and My Team/My Stable have seen several enhancements with each new release, including greater customization options and the ability to play as both current and former F1 or F2 drivers.
Unfortunately, the series has also been plagued by questionable design choices and technical glitches. From a patch that disrupted F1 2021’s driving mechanics shortly after launch to the awkward integration of cross-play in F1 22, gamers have voiced their frustrations. Features like F1 Life and F1 World felt underwhelming, while gameplay changes often seemed unnecessary. Coupled with updates that too frequently introduced new bugs rather than resolving existing ones, it’s understandable that many players have expressed their dissatisfaction or sought alternatives.
While developers share some responsibility for these issues, attributing this situation solely to their “incompetence” overlooks the complexities of producing an annual franchise. It’s hard to believe that the team at Codemasters is content with the state of their intellectual property, and I suspect many team members are feeling the pressure to deliver quality despite available resources.
In light of these challenges, it may be wise to consider prioritizing a significant content update for 2025, possibly “skipping” F1 25 to refocus efforts for a better F1 26. However, I find it difficult to envision EA, its shareholders, or F1 executives agreeing to a hiatus for the franchise. Drawing from the example of EA Sports WRC, it’s conceivable that F1 24 might receive a “simple” paid expansion to enhance existing content while addressing ongoing issues.
This expansion could include the latest official cars, drivers, teams, and liveries for the upcoming season, with a free update for Formula 2 later in the year. Given that the motorsport community is celebrating its 75th anniversary, this could also be an excellent opportunity to introduce retro models and historical tracks, such as Hockenheim and Nürburgring, which haven’t been featured since F1 2020.
Updating the seasonal calendar and regulations will be crucial to entice players to spend money again. Adjustments like a different Grand Prix order, the removal of points for the fastest lap, and new pit stop requirements could rejuvenate interest. Moreover, allowing players to customize their Career mode calendars, similar to Grand Prix mode, could enhance engagement significantly.
Additional features that could be included in this potential DLC might be the introduction of red flags during practice and qualifying sessions and the option to start races from the pit lane. These changes could add an exciting layer of unpredictability to the gameplay and encourage more strategic management of engine parts and penalties.
Future Prospects for F1 26 and Beyond
As Codemasters and EA work to reverse the current decline, they should be ambitious in developing F1 26. This may involve switching to a new game engine, such as Unreal Engine 5 or Frostbite, or significantly upgrading the Ego Engine. While the creative team has a strong attachment to the current engine, it has been in need of a refresh for far too long, limiting the franchise’s potential for growth and innovation.
With major regulatory changes set for next year, players will be expecting a substantial gameplay overhaul that enhances realism. Codemasters will face the challenging task of refining the driving experience, including vehicle physics, tire dynamics, and environmental factors affecting car performance.
It’s also vital to consider new players and ensure accessibility options remain a priority. To restore the series’ reputation, adopting a formula similar to Forza Motorsport or Gran Turismo could attract a broader audience.
Finally, enhancing the visual fidelity of the game, which has not undergone significant changes since 2019, is essential. While this may signal the end of support for older consoles like PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, it’s a necessary step towards revitalizing the franchise and ensuring its future success.