F1 23
- June 15, 2023
- Codemasters
- 39h median play time
EA Sports F1 23 is an improvement on last year, bringing back the enjoyable Braking Point story, and providing better control on the track.
"F1 23" is the official videogame of the 2023 FIA Formula One World Championship, allowing players to experience high-speed drama and heated rivalries in the 'Braking Point' story mode. The game features new circuits in Las Vegas and Qatar, Red Flags for added authenticity, and updated 2023 cars and teams. Players can also engage in My Team Career Mode, split-screen and cross-platform multiplayer, and Racenet Leagues for a more social racing experience. 'Braking Point 2' continues the thrilling storyline.
Reviews
- graphics379 mentions
- 45 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The graphics in F1 2023 have received mixed reviews, with many praising the stunning visuals and attention to detail that enhance the immersive racing experience. However, some players report significant performance issues, including stuttering and low frame rates even on high-end systems, leading to frustration. Overall, while the graphical fidelity is generally considered impressive, technical problems and inconsistencies have marred the experience for some users.
“F1 23 boasts a stunning graphical presentation, with realistic and detailed visuals of the cars, tracks, and environments.”
“With its stunning graphics, realistic gameplay mechanics, immersive career mode, and captivating multiplayer experience, it offers an unrivaled Formula 1 racing experience.”
“The graphics are so lifelike that I sometimes forget I'm not actually on the racetrack.”
“It's garbage, graphics are horrible on ultra settings, most of the geometry is low poly, anti-aliasing is terrible.”
“The graphics look worse than some of my old games from 2013.”
- story288 mentions
- 37 % positive mentions
- 58 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The "Breaking Point" story mode in F1 23 has received mixed reviews, with many players appreciating its engaging narrative and cinematic cutscenes, while others find it predictable and too short. Some users express a desire for more impactful choices and a deeper storyline, noting that the mode is a fun addition but may not appeal to everyone. Overall, it is seen as a solid improvement over previous installments, providing a unique narrative experience within the racing genre.
“The game's storyline is incredible and keeps you engaged throughout the gameplay.”
“Breaking Point 2 adds a little story but hardly worth £5 let alone £59.”
“The immersive story mode, where you can experience dramatic rivalries and plot twists as you chase racing glory, is one of my favorite modes.”
“The braking point story is lacklustre and the career mode is just bland and boring.”
“The story mode is a bit hit or miss—spending time between cool cutscenes and racing is okay, but it's not everyone's cup of tea.”
“The game's storyline carries on from the previous F1 games via the breaking point, but like previous games, there is no option to choose a path of being a number 1 or number 2 driver.”
- gameplay174 mentions
- 28 % positive mentions
- 69 % neutral mentions
- 3 % negative mentions
The gameplay in F1 2023 has received mixed reviews, with many praising its improved realism, handling, and graphics compared to its predecessor, F1 22. While the game offers a variety of modes and a deep career experience, some players have reported bugs, AI inconsistencies, and issues with the penalty system that detract from the overall experience. Overall, it strikes a balance between accessibility and depth, making it enjoyable for both newcomers and seasoned players, though some technical issues remain.
“F1 23 takes a significant leap forward in terms of gameplay realism and physics.”
“With realistic team management mechanics, dynamic rivalries, and a deep progression system, the career mode offers endless hours of thrilling gameplay.”
“The gameplay mechanics are incredibly smooth and responsive, allowing for precise control over your racing machine.”
“Not in terms of gameplay or difficulty, it's the distinct lack of care in every game.”
“The cars are the only new thing added and the game has poor mechanics and physics.”
“Next to no tutorial on any aspect of the game, the settings are over complicated and difficult to navigate, in-game instruction is minimal and you are given useless information regarding actual gameplay and mechanical aspects.”
- optimization115 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 55 % neutral mentions
- 29 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players praising its improved handling and smoother performance compared to previous entries, while others report significant stuttering and frame rate drops, particularly on mid-range systems and during night races. VR performance is notably problematic, with many users experiencing blurriness and lag, despite some claiming good performance on high-end setups. Overall, while there are advancements in graphics and gameplay, persistent optimization issues detract from the experience for many players.
“Dynamic weather effects not only add a layer of visual fidelity but also significantly impact race strategy and performance.”
“The optimization is also a standout feature; the game runs like a dream, maintaining a buttery-smooth frame rate that enhances the immersive experience.”
“Been playing 2021 for ages, and when I got this 2023 version, it took only 5 minutes to realize just how far the game has come in optimization!”
“However, optimization issues can hinder performance on mid-range setups, affecting the overall experience.”
“The game is so badly optimized it's forcing you to use TAA and poor DLSS.”
“The performance at launch is a bit rough at times, but I'm sure it'll be fixed eventually.”
- stability110 mentions
- 8 % positive mentions
- 1 % neutral mentions
- 91 % negative mentions
The game's stability has been widely criticized, with numerous reports of crashes, freezes, and various bugs that significantly disrupt gameplay. While some players note improvements over previous iterations, many still describe it as a "buggy mess" that feels unpolished and untested, leading to a frustrating experience. Overall, the game suffers from persistent stability issues that detract from its otherwise enjoyable mechanics and visuals.
“Runs great on Steam Deck and obviously is a great game overall.”
“Ffb is responsive and better than 2022, and the game runs great.”
“Much better than F1 22... no glitches, and handling is so much better.”
“Overall, the game is a buggy mess, and should not be released in this state, much less still be in it months after release.”
“The game when working is amazing but it's just a buggy mess that was never ready for release.”
“I truly love F1 and have enjoyed this game immensely, my absolute frustration is how many times it crashes, freezes and staggers along while I am desperately trying to play it.”
- music50 mentions
- 48 % positive mentions
- 42 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with some praising the soundtrack as "amazing" and "top tier," while others criticize it for being reminiscent of FIFA-style music. Players appreciate the ability to customize music settings, but there are reports of bugs affecting the audio experience, such as overlapping tracks. Overall, the soundtrack is seen as a highlight for many, despite some dissatisfaction with specific tracks and the lack of in-game music during play.
“The soundtrack is so good.”
“Great visuals, look, feel, and great music.”
“Love the new soundtrack and Breaking Point 2.”
“If you liked every other F1 game, well perfect, because literally nothing has changed. The music, the announcers, and the dialogue are pretty sure still from F1 2017.”
“Soundtrack is awful...”
“This literally made the game unplayable, because even when I turned the music volume to 0 and master volume to 0, the music did not stop.”
- monetization31 mentions
- 10 % positive mentions
- 35 % neutral mentions
- 55 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy in the game has drawn significant criticism, with many players labeling it as a cash grab due to the heavy reliance on microtransactions for customization options and in-game purchases. Users express frustration over invasive advertising, a grindy experience designed to encourage spending, and the perception that the game prioritizes profit over quality. Overall, the monetization approach has negatively impacted the game's reception, leading to concerns about its long-term viability and player satisfaction.
“Thank you for improving the monetization, EA!”
“Probably the only game I’ve seen from EA in a while that has little to no in-game purchases.”
“I can see them really pushing the monetization side of the game with that in the future, much like FUT in FIFA.”
“I don't know why I bought it really... each one of the previous games has been a disappointing cash grab with lots of wonderful claims but no real substance.”
“Combine that with an over-emphasis on microtransactions and an online experience full of trolls, this game is just not worth the money.”
“You had to pay more just to not get locked out of the game for the first 3 days, and then within weeks of release the expensive version was made cheaper than the regular version - how were any buyers supposed to feel like they got value for money, especially with the microtransactions?”
- grinding27 mentions
- 11 % positive mentions
- 63 % neutral mentions
- 26 % negative mentions
The grinding aspect of the game is heavily criticized, with players expressing that it requires an excessive time commitment, likening it to needing "a second life" to progress. Many feel that the grinding mechanics are unbalanced and unrewarding, often comparing it unfavorably to other EA titles that rely on microtransactions. Overall, the grinding experience is seen as tedious and frustrating, detracting from the enjoyment of the game.
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“Ranked is a grinding mess that doesn't reward skill, and the points system makes no sense.”
“The incentives to play more are grindy, cheesy, and unrewarding.”
“F1 World is far too easy unless you intentionally handicap yourself by running an inferior car, which makes it feel like grinding hot laps.”
- replayability17 mentions
- 18 % positive mentions
- 65 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
The game's replayability is mixed; while some players find it lacking for solo experiences and suggest it’s only worth purchasing on sale, others highlight the abundance of content, including improved graphics, new game modes, and strategic elements that enhance the career experience. Overall, it caters to both casual and hardcore fans, with many noting it offers significant replay value through its various features and challenges.
“It has a lot of content and replay value, and it caters to both casual and hardcore fans of the sport.”
“Strategic decisions off the track, such as team development investments and sponsor negotiations, impact performance on race day, adding depth and replayability to the career experience.”
“[Improved handling, good story mode, highly customizable gameplay experience, F1 World offers lots of replay value, looks and sounds better than ever].”
“This game is only worth it during the Christmas sales when it's cheaper; it doesn't really hold any replay value for solo players.”
“Thus, there's no replay value with Breaking Point.”
“Unsure how much replay value Breaking Point has, but I did actually enjoy the story for a change.”
- humor15 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is often derived from its quirky mechanics and player interactions, with users finding amusement in the absurdities of racing incidents and the game's handling compared to previous versions. While some players appreciate the lighthearted moments, such as funny animations and unexpected glitches, others express a desire for more intentional humor, like incorporating historical racing elements. Overall, the humor is a mix of genuine laughs and ironic commentary on the game's shortcomings.
“It's hilarious how EA just cannot understand what F1 is all about.”
“The number of gifs/videos I have of people deleting me with a fish-tail while pulling themselves back onto the track, or brake-checking me or others on lengthy straights, or even just braking late and slamming me into the pit wall only for me or my friend to get the warning for it is hilarious...and this is all at the 'A' safety rating.”
“Funny thing is when I ask for car status I also get tyre information.”
- atmosphere6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 17 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The atmosphere in the game is generally praised for its immersive audio design, featuring realistic sounds like roaring engines and crowd noise, which enhance the racing experience. However, some users feel that the overall atmosphere is lacking compared to other racing titles, such as Automobilista 2. Overall, opinions are mixed, with some rating the atmosphere as high as 8.5/10 while others find it insufficient.
“The roaring engines, screeching tires, and immersive crowd sounds contribute to the overall atmosphere of the game.”
“Atmosphere 8.5/10”
“The audio design of F1 2023 contributes to its immersive atmosphere, capturing the visceral sounds of Formula 1 racing.”
“Talk about atmosphere... this game has none.”
“Even though the game is not bad and the presentation adds to the atmosphere, I still prefer to drive formula cars in Automobilista 2.”
- emotional3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Users express mixed emotional responses, with some feeling discomfort due to the game's VR mechanics, particularly the unsettling head/vision shake. Additionally, there are reflections on the game's braking mechanics that evoke a sense of frustration, as players struggle to find the right balance in their inputs. Overall, the emotional experience is characterized by discomfort and frustration rather than enjoyment.
Critic Reviews
F1 23 Review
With Braking Point 2 aboard, F1 23 is a far heartier package than F1 22. However, while the new F1 World mode is packed with activities, its loot-based upgrade system may split fans.
80%F1 23 Review
Another fastest lap under for Codemasters, the predictability of the cars makes it a lot easier to handle than previous years—especially for those using a controller. Wheel users might not benefit so much from the changes, but the cars still feel more planted.
90%‘F1 23’ Review – PS5
With the sport growing rapidly, and no intentions of slowing down, 'F1 23' continues the yearly release, but gives the player a good experience. Whether you're a total rookie on the controller or a pro on your Fanatec wheel. 'F1 23' is a fun time overall.
82%