F1 2021

‘F1 2021’ continues to grow on what 2020 built. It’s a technical, story driver, fast, and fun ride. It’s a continuation into a franchise that has become what any F1 fan, or honestly racing fan in general has been wanting for years.

86%Game Brain Score

story, graphics

stability, grinding

87% User Score Based on 24,049 reviews

Critic Score 85%Based on 32 reviews

Platforms

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About

F1 2021 is a single player and multiplayer racing game. It was developed by Codemasters Birmingham and was released on July 12, 2021. It received positive reviews from both critics and players.

"F1 2021" is a racing simulation game that brings the thrill of Formula One championships to players. Experience the new "Braking Point" story mode, multiplayer options, and a wide range of customization as you compete in official circuits and races. With improved physics, graphics, and audio, this game offers an immersive and realistic F1 racing experience.

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87%

Audience ScoreBased on 24,049 reviews

story529 positive mentions

stability385 negative mentions

story
1,348 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
39%
56%
5%
The "Braking Point" story mode in F1 2021 has received mixed reviews, with many players appreciating its engaging narrative and character development, particularly the rivalry between Aiden Jackson and Devon Butler. However, criticisms include its linearity, lack of player agency, and a relatively short playtime, leading some to feel it could have been more impactful with branching storylines. Overall, while it adds a fresh element to the racing experience, opinions vary on its depth and replayability.
- “The game's braking point story mode is an exciting addition that allows players to experience a mix of racing action and dramatic cutscenes.”
- “The story is surprisingly profound and relevant to real F1 dramas, and brought me inside a whole new experience of F1.”
- “Braking point is a good story but the voice acting is a bit cringe-worthy at the beginning.”
- “Game bugs out every single time without fail during story mode.”
- “The story mode was lame, I was hoping for different outcomes depending on how you reacted to your teammate but no, Butler is the cause of it, how predictable.”
- “The story mode in completely meaningless, the worst addition by far.”
graphics
1,016 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
51%
46%
3%
The graphics in F1 2021 have received widespread praise for their realism and detail, with many users noting improvements over previous iterations, particularly in car models and track environments. However, some players have reported performance issues, including crashes and lag, especially when adjusting settings, which can detract from the overall experience. Overall, while the visuals are considered stunning and immersive, technical glitches and optimization challenges remain a concern for some users.
- “The visuals in F1 2021 are stunning, with highly detailed car models, realistic environments, and breathtaking track designs.”
- “F1 2021 sets the bar high for Formula 1 racing games, delivering an exceptional gameplay experience, stunning visuals, and an authentic representation of the sport.”
- “The graphics are top notch - and at times, it's easy to forget you're playing a video game during the race as it's all so stunning.”
- “Just don't try to adjust the graphics settings, otherwise the game may crash.”
- “The graphics are choppy (I run an i9 processor and RX 580 graphics card) my specs are well within the recommended for this game.”
- “Sadly, I have to lower my graphic settings or otherwise the game will crash every single race.”
gameplay
608 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
35%
61%
4%
The gameplay of F1 2021 has received mixed reviews, with many praising its immersive and realistic mechanics, improved AI, and engaging story mode, "Braking Point." However, some players have noted a lack of significant new features compared to F1 2020, persistent bugs, and frustrating online multiplayer experiences. Overall, while the game offers a solid racing experience with stunning graphics and a variety of modes, it is marred by technical issues and a sense of repetition.
- “With its immersive gameplay, realistic mechanics, and attention to detail, the game captures the essence of the high-speed world of Formula 1.”
- “F1 2021 offers an exceptional gameplay experience, providing players with the opportunity to step into the shoes of their favorite Formula 1 drivers and compete on iconic tracks around the world.”
- “F1 2021 sets the bar high for Formula 1 racing games, delivering an exceptional gameplay experience, stunning visuals, and an authentic representation of the sport.”
- “Unsuppported, unfinished game that will spend more time crashed than in gameplay.”
- “In terms of gameplay, it is one of the worst recent Codemasters F1 games to play. Fucking bullshit mechanics and insanely broken that doesn't seem like it has any support.”
- “There was never a game that I felt so much disappointment with. After paying 60 euros for this game, I feel like I was scammed. The AI of the game is pathetic and the number of bugs that can destroy one's experience with the gameplay is frustrating.”
stability
397 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
3%
97%
The stability of the game has been widely criticized, with numerous users reporting frequent crashes, freezes, and various bugs that significantly hinder gameplay, especially in multiplayer modes. While some players have had relatively bug-free experiences, the overall consensus is that the game is currently too unstable for casual players, with many recommending waiting for patches to address these issues before purchasing. Despite its fun gameplay and improvements in certain areas, the persistent technical problems have left many feeling frustrated and disappointed.
- “I am rating thumbs up because this game seems bug free.”
- “Looks and runs great.”
- “Other than some AI stupidity and crashing issues, the game runs great and I have no complaints.”
- “This game is such a buggy mess, I love it but for someone that just wants to try out an F1 game, don't buy it.”
- “The game is seriously buggy and I don't see how the developers thought this was okay to release.”
- “The most recent updates though have caused it to be a buggy mess that crashes every 2 minutes.”
optimization
223 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
20%
66%
14%
The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players praising its ability to run smoothly on high settings and deliver high frame rates, while others report significant performance issues, including stuttering, crashes, and inconsistent AI behavior. Many users noted that while the graphics are visually impressive, the overall performance can vary greatly depending on hardware, with some experiencing severe drops in frame rates and bugs that detract from the experience. Overall, the game is seen as well-optimized for capable systems, but it struggles with stability and performance consistency, particularly on lower-end setups.
- “The game is really well optimized, and you get high frames with one of the best-looking racing games. The wet track may look wetter than it is at times, but it still looks amazing.”
- “Game's also extremely well optimized: on the default 'high' settings, I can play it at 4k 60 fps with an R5 3600 and 6650XT.”
- “F1 2021 has nice graphics and good performance.”
- “This has to be one of the worst optimized racing games I have ever played.”
- “The game also has performance issues, constant crashes, almost every single time I played this game I had a crash.”
- “Many weeks after release and major bugs have not been fixed, graphical issues seriously detract from the experience, classic cars are removed for literally zero reason, 2021 calendar additions that were known well in advance of the season starting are still not added, the AI drives with performance that is far different from your car, and in a lot of circumstances seem to lock-on and crash into your car or other AIs to create artificial crashes.”
grinding
90 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
2%
78%
20%
The reviews overwhelmingly indicate that grinding in the game is excessively time-consuming, with many players feeling it requires "a second life" to manage effectively. While some aspects, like practice sessions, have seen improvements, the overall experience is described as tedious and frustrating, particularly due to AI issues and glitches that hinder gameplay.
- “A bit grindy sometimes.”
- “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
- “One long, tedious grind.”
- “Ai drives like dogshit and half of the kerbs make you spin if you don't hit them at the perfect spot, making it a rather unpleasant experience for the average casual controller player if they don't want to spend dozens of hours really grinding to get the game properly playable with the controller.”
humor
82 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
98%
2%
The humor in the game is often described as a mix of unintentional comedy from bugs and glitches, as well as amusing scenarios within the gameplay. Players find moments of hilarity in the chaotic online multiplayer experience and the absurdity of certain game mechanics, though some also express frustration with the game's repetitive nature and technical issues. Overall, while the humor can be hit or miss, many players appreciate the lighthearted moments that arise during gameplay.
- “F1 2021 is a great and funny game.”
- “It's funny though choosing Williams and seeing them fight for the championship after 1 season.”
- “Knowing the awful track quality Codemasters always had, that is kinda funny.”
- “When I bought this game, it was only for the stories and the good-looking cars. However, after playing a bit in history and career mode, the game felt boring and not funny to play anymore, so I quit and went to Assetto Corsa to play some real simulation game.”
- “When I bought this game, it was only for the stories and the good-looking cars. However, after playing a bit in history and career mode, the game felt boring and not funny to play anymore, so I quit and went to Assetto Corsa to play some real simulation game.”
music
56 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
54%
41%
5%
The music in the game has received widespread acclaim, with many reviewers praising it as the best in the series, surpassing even F1 23. The soundtrack is noted for its emotional depth and nostalgic elements, particularly the main menu music, which evokes memories of earlier titles. Overall, the sound design and music significantly enhance the game's presentation, contributing to a more immersive experience.
- “The presentation of the game has drastically improved with the actual F1 intro playing when you launch the game, the 'press start' screen having moments of Crofty commentary in the background, and overall better music.”
- “Just no words, it is such emotional music that you can't help but love. For example, the online lobby music before the race is just something that you suddenly realize you keep humming along with.”
- “Overall a fun sim that I hope to get a little more competitive with. The game is gorgeous, the audio is great, and the soundtrack is really amazing.”
- “If you have 2020, it comes down to if you want to spend 60 dollars for some music and some better AI (I did).”
- “Some of the music sorely needs to be re-recorded.”
- “- there is no music.”
monetization
50 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
8%
50%
42%
The monetization model of the game has drawn significant criticism, with many players feeling that it prioritizes microtransactions, passes, and loot boxes over gameplay quality and balance. While some microtransactions are deemed harmless, the pervasive presence of virtual currency and locked customization options has led to perceptions of the game as a cash grab, particularly following its acquisition by EA. Overall, players express frustration over the increasing focus on monetization, which detracts from the overall experience and raises concerns about the future of the franchise.
- “You do not need to utilize the microtransactions, but some of the customization options will be locked behind the podium pass which can only be unlocked using virtual currency.”
- “You earn pit coins rather easily, so the microtransactions are pretty pointless and the pit coins are only for cosmetic items anyway.”
- “But there are a few issues with the game, but those are mainly due to the monetization model they are pursuing.”
- “I can imagine this being the last F1 game I buy. I've had all barring 2018 since 2017. I can't see the point in spending 70 euros on a game where the developers couldn't care less about their customers based on problems in multiplayer continuing through generations of the game. With EA Sports becoming the producers of the game, I am fearful for the future of these games. If the online issues don't get resolved, it will be hard to look at the game as anything other than a cash grab.”
- “I sure hope that one day, some other game development studio gets to make the official F1 games, because this is just a sad cash grab every year, again and again.”
- “You're then interrupted by an ad for 'podium pass series 1', which is explained as purchasable VIP, so the content is already split into microtransactions, which are almost totally worthless anyway because the lifespan of the game is so short.”
emotional
40 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Players express a strong emotional connection to the game, highlighting its immersive storytelling and realistic racing experience that evokes feelings of both triumph and frustration. The game's music and cinematic elements enhance the emotional depth, making players feel like real F1 drivers, while the sensitivity of the handling system adds to the tension and realism. However, some players report experiencing emotional distress due to gameplay challenges, such as frequent spins from minor mistakes, leading to mixed feelings about their overall experience.
- “It's a really great way to get a look into how this job really is, especially from an emotional and social perspective.”
- “Just no words, it is such emotional music that you can't help but love it. For example, the online lobby music before the race is something that you suddenly realize you keep humming along with.”
- “And yes... Braking Point is an amazing story with a really touching ending :)”
replayability
27 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
22%
52%
26%
Overall, the game is praised for its high replayability, particularly due to the "My Team" mode, which many players find more engaging than traditional career modes. While some features, like "Breakpoint," lack replay value, the improved car controls and gameplay mechanics contribute to a more enjoyable and replayable experience compared to previous titles. However, certain aspects still need refinement to enhance overall replayability further.
- “The 'My Team' game mode basically makes the other career mode obsolete as it's so much better, definitely makes the game a lot more replayable and adds a grind-y aspect whilst still being fun and not a chore.”
- “My Team: great feature that was brought in last year's F1 2020, this is fun, addictive, and has plenty of replayability.”
- “☑️ Infinitely replayable.”
- “Breakpoint was a nice touch although more needs to be done to make this feature work, no replay value to this, other than that seems good.”
- “If you're buying for Braking Point or have 2020 then give it a miss, the story is very underwhelming and has no replayability value.”
- “+ Braking Point, even though there's little replayability, the plot is solid.”
atmosphere
18 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
33%
50%
17%
The atmosphere in the game is widely praised for its immersive sound design and vibrant race day ambiance, effectively capturing the essence of an F1 season. While some players appreciate the strategic elements and graphics, others note that the driving mechanics can be lacking. The "Breaking Point" DLC is recognized for its attempt to create a tense atmosphere, though it falls short in storytelling. Overall, the atmosphere is a standout feature that enhances the gaming experience for F1 enthusiasts.
- “The sound design is equally impressive, capturing the roar of the engines, screeching tires, and the ambiance of the race day atmosphere, adding to the overall immersion.”
- “The atmosphere is perfect, from the requirement to strategy to the images.”
- “It has a very good atmosphere to it, and gives you a much more immersive feel in the paddock environment.”
- “While the atmosphere of a race weekend is better than ever, the core of the game, which is driving, is absolutely horrendous.”
- “Breaking Point: great attempt to build a hostile and aggressive atmosphere, but lacks in storytelling.”
- “A perfect game for the right people; it does crash sometimes, which gets on my nerves, but I love the atmosphere and the Breaking Point DLC.”
character development
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Character development in the game is generally considered adequate, with some effort made to flesh out the characters; however, it lacks dynamism and memorability, leaving players wanting more depth.