Fresh evaluation of Formula 1 25: Assessing the authenticity of the latest Formula 1 video game
F1 25, the latest addition to the Formula One gaming series, is set to release on May 30, 2025. Developed by Codemasters and published by Electronic Arts / EA Sports, this game promises an enhanced racing experience for both beginners and professionals.
The game introduces several unique features and improvements, focusing on realism, AI behavior, graphics, and live content updates.
Enhanced AI and Player Car Performance
The latest patches (v1.06 and v1.07) have addressed underbody scraping issues that previously caused player cars to have lower top speeds compared to AI cars, ensuring a fairer racing experience. Automatic gearbox behavior in wet conditions was also improved to reduce premature upshifting and enhance acceleration out of corners. Moreover, AI now better identifies the correct tyre during race restarts, improving race authenticity.
Advanced Track Accuracy via LIDAR Scans
F1 25 uses LIDAR technology to scan five tracks (Imola, Melbourne, Miami, and Suzuka), delivering a much more precise and realistic representation of these circuits compared to previous hand-modeled versions. This is a significant visual leap towards replicating real-world environments within the game.
Exclusive PC Graphics Feature - Path Tracing
On PC, F1 25 introduces Path Tracing, a sophisticated lighting technology that enhances indirect lighting realism better than traditional ray tracing. This results in visually richer scenes, especially noticeable on city circuits with complex light interactions.
Season 2 Live Content and Scenarios
Starting from July 2025, F1 25 launched a Season 2 update adding new scenarios, updated driver ratings, and limited-time rewards that reflect real 2025 Formula 1 events. This live content approach brings players closer to current F1 moments and provides new challenges to engage with.
Cross-Platform Multiplayer Duels and More
F1 25 supports cross-platform multiplayer duels, allowing players on different platforms to race against each other. The game also offers numerous individual adjustment options for a customizable virtual F1 experience. Three of the tracks in F1 25 can now be driven in reverse.
F1 25 also features a "Braking Point" story mode that adds bonus points to the game, and a F1 World concept that includes constant unlocking and leveling-up, which may not be appealing to all players. Three tracks have been updated using LiDAR technology to match real-life counterparts.
The game is available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, and the starting price for F1 25 is 59,99 Euro. Despite some balance issues in changing weather conditions, Codemasters shows a good touch with the driving physics in F1 25.
F1 25 may not be suitable for players who find no appeal in leveling up and unlocking, expect ultimate realism, or easily get lost in the menu maze. The developers of F1 25 should consider toning down the aggressive AI drivers and addressing the balance issues in changing weather conditions in an update.
For those seeking alternatives to F1 25, consider Forza Motorsport, Le Mans Ultimate, and Gran Turismo 7. F1 25 is suitable for players who value the current license, want to be both a driver and a manager, and are not easily rattled by aggressive AI opponents.
[1] Codemasters Press Release - F1 25 Patch v1.07 [2] Codemasters Press Release - F1 25 Patch v1.06 [3] Codemasters Press Release - F1 25 LIDAR and Path Tracing Technologies [4] Codemasters Press Release - F1 25 Season 2 Live Content
- The advanced racing game, F1 25, not only offers an enhanced racing experience but also integrates technology, such as LIDAR scans and Path Tracing, to ensure a realistic representation of tracks and improve graphics.
- For those who enjoy both sports and technology, F1 25 introduces a "Braking Point" story mode and cross-platform multiplayer duels, along with unique features like real-life track scanning and Path Tracing on PC.
