Italian studio 3DClouds has unveiled Formula Legends, a captivating new game that draws inspiration from Art of Rally while offering an arcade-style, open-wheel racing experience that celebrates over 50 years of Formula 1 history. This unlicensed tribute showcases the studio's dedication to recreating the essence of various F1 eras with impressive detail.
In an exclusive preview with IGN, 3DClouds revealed that while aspects like AI behavior are still being refined, their commitment to authenticity is evident. Formula Legends will feature 16 car models, each with seven distinct liveries. These cars, styled as chunky, toy-like caricatures, pay homage to some of the most iconic racecar designs, making their inspirations unmistakably clear. The team has placed significant emphasis on sound, crucial for capturing the distinctive feel of older F1 cars. Additionally, the game will support modding, allowing players to customize liveries, helmets, and trackside sponsors, which could greatly enhance the game's appeal.
The game will include 14 circuits, each with multiple variations to reflect their evolution from the 1970s to the 2020s, all inspired by real-world locations. The story mode promises an immersive journey through F1's defining moments, with era-based championships.
Racing in Formula Legends is set to offer nuanced gameplay. With 200 drivers, including cleverly named characters like Mike Shoemaker and Osvald Pastry, players will need to consider skill perks alongside factors such as tyre wear, fuel consumption, rubbered-in racing lines, damage, and dynamic weather. Balancing these deeper elements with an accessible arcade approach will be key to the game's success.
Formula Legends Reveal Screenshots
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Producer Francesco Mantovani shared that the team drew inspiration from 2023's New Star GP, a throwback to early 3D racing games, but aimed to position Formula Legends between New Star GP and Art of Rally in terms of gameplay. "Art of Rally was the main inspiration we took for this game. We appreciate how they worked on the camera and on the tracks," Mantovani explained.
While 3DClouds has primarily developed licensed racing games for younger audiences, such as Paw Patrol Grand Prix, Fast & Furious: Spy Racers, and Hot Wheels Monster Trucks: Stunt Mayhem, Formula Legends is described as a passion project, independently created by the studio. Executive producer Roberta Migliori emphasized the timing of the project, stating, "I think it’s a game that they’ve been wanting to make for a really, really long time, and finally we have the resources to do it." She noted that the studio's work-for-hire history has positioned them well to capitalize on F1's growing popularity. "With the increasing popularity of the sport and the strong passion, it just seemed like the right moment. The game is completely self-funded thanks to other games we’ve worked on."
The studio's proximity to Monza, Formula 1's legendary Temple of Speed, likely adds to their passion for the project. Formula Legends is set to launch later this year on Xbox One and Series X|S, PS4 and PS5, PC, and Switch. While the team currently lacks Switch 2 kits, Migliori confirmed they will explore that opportunity when ready.
