BREAKING | Launch date and new features for F1 2022 game revealed

Breaking News

21 April 2022 at 16:00
Last update 21 April 2022 at 16:02

EA Sports and Codemasters have confirmed the new F1 2022 game will launch on Friday 1st July 2022. As always, the game mirrors real-life Formula 1 and therefore features cars with new rules and regulations that were implemented at the start of the current season. Players will be able to experiance new game features, as well as race in the Miami Grand Prix which makes its debut in May. Sprint races will also feature on the game. 

New Features

F1 Life is a new feature for the 2022 edition of the game. It's a customisable hub that allows players to show off their collection of supercars, clothing, and accessories, earned via gameplay, Podium Pass, and the in-game brand store. Lee Mather, F1 Senior Creative Director at Codemasters reveals his thoughts about the new game. 

"Alongside the real-world changes, we have updated the physics to accommodate the new aero rules and re-worked the tyre model, making the handling more true to life. With new and updated circuits, Adaptive AI, F1 Life, and expanded gameplay options, there has never been a better time for players to take their seats and live the life of an F1 driver," he said. 

Sprint races

In 2021, Formula 1 confirmed they were to test three sprint races. Those tests were successful, though the bosses didn't opt to scale up the number for the 2022 season. The first sprint race of the 2022 season takes place this weekend in Imola before the same format is replicated in Austria and Brazil later in the year. EA Sports and Codemasters confirmed the game will feature Sprint Races for the first time. The game will also see real-life track updates to Australia, Spain, and Abu Dhabi to reflect recent changes.

The redefined race day allows players to customise their set-up with new Immersive and Broadcast options that affect formation laps, safety car periods, and pit stops. Select Immersive, and players will face risk-reward challenges, which could be the difference between a place on the podium or finishing outside the points. Broadcast takes the pressure off, with controlled and authentic cinematics that keeps players close to the action. For the ultimate immersive F1 experience, the new PC VR functionality via Oculus Rift and HTC Vive enables players to feel the drama from right inside the cockpit.  

For new and casual fans, the new Adaptive AI keeps less experienced players competitive throughout each race, with opposing AI racers tailored to match the skill level. Accessible menus and handling also return to help players get to the action quickly without the need to understand the complexities of the sport. The refreshed Practice Programs offer more variety with new scoring systems and on-track visualisations. This helps players navigate each twist and turn to perfection before racing for those all-important championship points.

Players can pre-order the Champions Edition now, which includes three days early access and a time-limited Miami inspired content pack.