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0 F1 25 left the paddock on the 30th May, I previewed the game, which you can read here, and I was fortunate enough to receive a code for the Iconic Edition with all the assorted extra content. This review focuses on the PlayStation 5 version of the annual racing series.
So, the big question: Has Codemasters delivered a podium finish, or has it crashed into the barrier?
Pitt Stop
The game includes all the modes you know and love, plus some extra Hollywood action. Tied in with the upcoming movie, you can play scenarios from the film — these unlock on June 30th, five days after the film’s UK release. The characters are available to use in other modes; it was very strange seeing Tyler Durden/Benjamin Button/Jesse James walking around the paddock. The Hollywood like drama doesn’t stop with the return of Braking Point, appearing in the series every other year, this story mode sees you drive for the fictional Konnersport team in fifteen races over two seasons, with objectives to complete, more twists and turns than Monaco and what felt like a culmination of the mode.
Gameplay
Gameplay in F1 25 is similar to last year’s entry, as is often the case with annual releases. There are some changes, including focusing exclusively on current generation consoles. You do feel a genuine difference when racing as one of the leading pack, such as McLaren/Red Bull, in comparison to Sauber or Haas. The game has so many assists for newer gamers to the series, including displaying the driving line. This is good to show when the optimum time to brake is. Even with assists on, wet weather driving is on another level this year. I felt the car skid that little bit extra on the standing water of the tracks, and as a result had to adjust my driving accordingly.
The online hub F1 World lets you take on solo challenges or race online. These races get super competitive, as I found out when I had a fellow player serenade me with some choice language and chat invites after he spun out while trying to overtake me. Apart from my skirmish with the person in question, the online experience was fun. I got to see true driving professionals at work, often leaving me in their dust.
Longevity
Alongside the modes above, F1 25 offers a wealth of content to keep players engaged, with the revamped Career Mode taking up most of my time as I guided my created driver to legendary status. If you want a bit more realism, then you can play as one of the 20 official 2025 F1 drivers. The introduction of the Driver Recognition system adds more depth, where career rivalries can form with teammates and championship contenders alike while off-track decisions have a say on your career progression as secret meetings can take place where a team will look to sign you so the better you race, the better the team you can join.
The My Team mode has been overhauled, offering a more in-depth management experience. Players now take on the role of team owners, marking a change from the owner/driver hybrid seen previously. You can take over a current team or create your own, customising budgets and drivers which help you manage strategic decisions such as R&D investments. The mode provides a comprehensive simulation of running an F1 team, appealing to fans who enjoy the managerial aspects of the sport.
Audio
F1 25 delivers a rich and immersive audio experience that simulates the high-octane world of Formula 1. One massive change to audio is on the accessibility side of things, with multiple audio driving assists for players. These features support players with low or no vision. While they aren’t perfect due to the absence of a screen reader, they represent a big step in the right direction. A standout feature is the commentary provided by either David Croft or Alex Jacques. It adds a layer of realism due to the number of lines recorded to cover various race scenarios. The game incorporates real driver voices, enhancing immersion during races. This feature allows players to hear authentic reactions and communications, minus the fruity language of course.
Codemasters’ audio team finely crafted the engine audio in F1 25, using advanced recording techniques such as placing microphones inside actual racing helmets to capture the authentic in-cockpit sound. This approach ensures that players experience the slight differences in engine tones and gear shifts.
F1 25 also offers multiple audio mix settings to cater to different player preferences, with the driver mix simulating the sound environment from the driver’s perspective, providing a muffled, in-helmet experience. The broadcast mix closely mimics the F1 TV experience with balanced engine sounds, commentary, and ambient noise. Finally, the cinematic mix enhances the drama of the sport with heightened environmental sounds and music. Real-world F1 events at Bahrain, Silverstone, and Zandvoort circuits provided ambient sounds like crowd reactions and pit lane activity.
Graphics
One of the standout graphical features is LIDAR scanning, which was used to recreate several circuits with inch-perfect precision. Tracks like Bahrain, Miami, Melbourne, Suzuka, and Imola have had every grain of the tarmac, kerbs, and elevation changes modelled. The game introduces advanced lighting techniques which improve the realism of shadows and reflections. Dynamic weather effects have also been enhanced, with rain-soaked tracks and variable lighting conditions adding to the challenge and immersion.
Some character models, particularly those of non-playable characters, lack the polish seen in other aspects of the game. Certain cutscenes and menu interfaces feel less responsive with long load times, slightly detracting from the overall presentation.
Final Thoughts
F1 25 feels like a real step up, not just a new number on the box. With immersive career progression and stunning next-gen visuals, it’s a must-play for returning fans. It’s also perhaps the ideal starting point for newcomers looking to jump into the cockpit. F1 25 puts you in control, delivering authentic, rewarding race experiences—whether chasing pole or avoiding the gravel.
Due to all of this, I am giving F1 25 the Thumb Culture Gold Award.
Disclaimer: A code was received in order to write this review.
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