"Formula Legends: Where Art of Rally Meets F1"

Italian studio 3DClouds has unveiled Formula Legends, a captivating new game that draws inspiration from the acclaimed Art of Rally while embracing the vibrant world of arcade-style, open-wheel racing. This unlicensed homage celebrates over five decades of Formula 1's storied history, meticulously recreating various eras of the sport.

In an exclusive preview with IGN, 3DClouds showcased the game's progress. While elements such as AI behavior are still being refined, the studio's dedication to authentically representing different periods of F1 racing is already striking. The game will feature 16 car models, each adorned with seven unique liveries. Though these cars are presented as chunky, toy-like caricatures, their designs pay clear homage to some of the most iconic racecars in history. Sound design has been a focal point for the team, which is essential for capturing the distinct auditory identities of older F1 cars. Additionally, Formula Legends will support modding, allowing for customizations ranging from liveries to helmets and trackside sponsors, promising to enhance the game's longevity and community engagement.

The game includes 14 circuits, each with multiple variations reflecting their evolution from the 1970s to the 2020s, all inspired by real-world locations. The story mode is particularly intriguing, offering era-based championships that will guide players through pivotal moments in F1's high-speed history.

Racing in Formula Legends will be nuanced, with factors like tyre wear, fuel consumption, rubbered-in racing lines, damage, and dynamic weather influencing gameplay. Each of the 200 drivers, including playfully named characters like Mike Shoemaker and Osvald Pastry, will have unique skill perks. The challenge for 3DClouds lies in balancing these deeper elements with an accessible arcade approach, a blend that will be fascinating to see in action.

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 in the past, including titles like Paw Patrol Grand Prix, Fast & Furious: Spy Racers, and Hot Wheels Monster Trucks: Stunt Mayhem, Formula Legends represents a passion project developed entirely independently. Executive producer Roberta Migliori emphasized the significance of this venture, 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 perfectly to capitalize on F1's surging 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, the legendary Temple of Speed and one of the earliest purpose-built race tracks, adds an authentic touch to their work. Formula Legends is set to launch later this year on Xbox One and Series X|S, PS4 and PS5, PC, and Switch. Although 3DClouds currently does not have Switch 2 kits, Migliori confirmed their intent to explore this opportunity as soon as possible.