STACK Aug #154

GAMES FEATURE

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Changing formula the

“We work closely with a number of the team to replicate their cars in-game as closely as possible to the real thing. We are also very fortunate to have access to drivers from time to time. For example, we just spent some time with Max Verstappen at the Red Bull HQ to film a piece and got to talk to him about the game.There are numerous examples like this and we cherish their feedback.” Working with the crew

Another year, another F1 game.We chatted to Codemasters’ creative director, Lee Mather, about how the series has evolved with F1 2017. Words Alesha Kolbe F 1 2017 is Codemasters’ official accompaniment to the Formula 1 racing season. to the player, it opens up a whole new element in F1 2017.” F1 2017 is aiming

to spend your resource points on elements which don’t directly impact the performance of the car could be a wise strategy. The player may chose to focus their

Passionate as they are, fans of the F1 game series look forward to each entry’s new instalment to the campaign mode. This year, according to creative director Lee Mather, Codemasters are bringing fans more of what they loved from 2016. “We are building on those foundations to create an even deeper, more rounded experience. You can now select a female avatar for your driver, which is something we have been looking to do for a long time. We have also added a number of new paddock locations to add to the variety of what you will see and interact with in- between sessions on the track.” The research and development (R&D) system is back with a wider range, with Mather comparing it to an RPG skill tree. “That is then complemented by the new practice programs that help you earn the resource points you will need to develop the car. Developing the car isn’t the only consideration for the player in F1 2017. Upgrades aren’t always successful, so looking

to be a more realistic game, and one that stays close to the

way the real drivers have to manage and

L e e M a t h e r

coordinate their cars. “There is also a greater

emphasis on the management of your gearbox and engine," says Mather. "Having to change either of those during a race weekend will incur penalties, so it is important that you try to limit any unnecessary wear.” He also emphasis that everything you do impacts your perception by other teams. “[This] will give you a clearer indication of where contracts are likely to be coming from.” Of course, the devs also have to keep pace with changes that are happening in the world of F1. In 2017, tyre width on the cars was increased, which impacts how the cars handle. “This has meant that we have had to completely rework the physics system and refine

development on speeding up component delivery or quality control, reducing the risk of failed research and development on new components. "To further complement the new R&D system, the player can also look to improve pit stop efficiency, reducing part cost, opening up simultaneous part development, or speeding up the delivery of parts. With all of these choices available With all of these choices available to the player, it opens up a whole new element in F1 2017

between the aerodynamics and tyre grip.”

• F1 2017 is out Aug 25

Finally, F1 2017 will reintroduce classic cars,

and Mather can’t wait to

see the fans’ reaction. “Classic cars are a firm fan favourite and were a huge hit when we first introduced them back in 2013. It made sense to bring them back to the series but only once we were happy with the core game experience. They look, sound and feel absolutely awesome. People are going to love driving them.”

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AUGUST 2017

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