The F1 series by EA Sports has long been the standard for Formula 1 racing simulation, closely following the evolution of the world championship with annual releases. With each new installment, there has been a focus on enhancing realism, accessibility, and immersion in the sport. F1 21 introduced cinematic storytelling with the Braking Point mode, F1 22 emphasized customization and lifestyle, F1 23 improved physics and driving mechanics, and F1 24 aimed to cater to controller players with a balance between arcade and simulation.
### F1 25: Continuing the Evolution
F1 25 continues in the direction set by its predecessors while addressing feedback from the previous version, particularly regarding physics that favored controller players. This latest chapter aims to deliver a more immersive driving experience, enhancements in the career mode, and deeper integration with the real 2025 F1 season. As the first title entirely developed using EA’s engine in the post-Braking Point 2 era, F1 25 represents a significant technical overhaul rather than just a routine update.
### Braking Point Returns
The narrative-driven mode, Braking Point, makes a comeback in F1 25 with its third installment, Braking Point 3. Players are taken through the 2024 and 2025 seasons, following the fictional team Konnersport under new leadership. The mode offers multiple perspectives and protagonist choices, influencing the story’s development and race objectives. While some may not consider it a standout feature, Braking Point adds additional depth for players seeking a narrative component in the Formula 1 gaming experience.
### New Features and Improvements in Game Modes
F1 25 introduces several enhancements to refine gameplay aspects. The My Team mode offers more detailed driver and team management, while physics improvements make driving more demanding, catering to simulation enthusiasts. Other additions include inverted track layouts for select circuits and a Challenge Career mode for single-player engagement. Visually, the game maintains a solid presentation with incremental improvements, but the overall experience feels more like a refinement than a significant departure from the previous installment.
Overall, F1 25 represents a continuation of the series’ evolution with subtle improvements to enhance realism and immersion in the Formula 1 racing experience.
Review of F1 25
Driving a Formula 1 car in F1 25 still provides a thrilling experience with its speed sensation, control in the curves, and adrenaline of competing for every tenth of a second. However, the similarities with its predecessor, F1 24, are so subtle that it raises questions about the necessity of a new release every year.
Thoughts on Game Evolution
Personally, I believe a longer gap between titles would make more sense. A base game model with seasonal updates, similar to other sports games, could lead to a more significant evolution over time and prevent the feeling of stagnation that F1 25 struggles to conceal.
Visual Improvements
From a technical perspective, playing F1 25 on a PlayStation 5 Pro showcases noticeable visual enhancements. With a focus on more powerful consoles like the PS5, Series X, and PC, the game offers options for Performance mode, allowing gameplay at up to 120 fps, and Quality mode at 60 fps. The increased visual fluidity in the performance mode makes a significant difference, despite sacrificing some graphical details.
