F1 2011

Codemasters announced details of its latest F1 game at Gamescom today, giving race fans reasons to look forward to F1 2011. Here are some of the key improvements you should be aware of.

•    The game’s handling has been improved, including an enhanced suspension model that Codemasters Birmingham says is more accurate. It’s also easier to recover from oversteer moments, which is something that players new to F1 racing are bound to be familiar with.
•    The AI has been improved, so that it now behaves like a real driver. Previously, computer-controlled opponents would inexplicably brake on straightaways and do other odd things that pulled players out of the moment.
•    The damage models and simulations have been improved. Damaged engines belch fire and if the fuel mixture becomes too rich, blasts of flame will explode from the exhaust.
•    The race engineer gives more feedback to the player, such as providing the estimated position the driver will be in after pitting.
•    Online multiplayer now features a full racing grid, with 16 player-controlled cars and 8 AI opponents. There are objectives in multiplayer as well, and they’re based on your individual skill. Other people can spectate, as well.
•    Split-screen racing has been added, along with a co-op championship.
•    There’s also a time-attack mode, with scenarios locked to specific cars and tracks, and they support online leaderboards.
•    Finally, the safety car has been added to the game.

Look for the game September 22, 2011 on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Written by Jeff Cork