Italian studio 3DClouds has unveiled Formula Legends, a new racing game inspired by Art of Rally that brings an arcade-style twist to open-wheel racing. This unlicensed tribute spans over 50 years of Formula 1's storied history, delivering a nostalgic journey through the sport's evolution.
In an exclusive preview with IGN, 3DClouds showcased the game's progress, emphasizing their dedication to authentically recreating various eras of F1. While some aspects like AI behavior are still being refined, the commitment to detail in the game's design is already remarkable.
Formula Legends will feature 16 car models, each boasting seven distinct liveries. Though the cars are designed as chunky, toy-style caricatures, their off-brand homages to iconic racecar designs are unmistakable. The team has put significant effort into sound design, vital for capturing the essence of historical F1 vehicles. Additionally, the game will support modding, allowing customization of liveries, helmets, and trackside sponsors, potentially enhancing the gaming experience.
The game includes 14 circuits, each with multiple configurations reflecting their historical evolution from the 1970s to the 2020s, inspired by real-world tracks.
The story mode of Formula Legends promises an exciting journey through F1's pivotal moments via era-based championships, offering a deep dive into the sport's rich history.
Racing in Formula Legends will incorporate nuanced elements such as tyre wear, fuel consumption, rubbered-in racing lines, damage, and dynamic weather. With 200 drivers, including playfully named characters like Mike Shoemaker and Osvald Pastry, each with unique skill perks, the game aims to blend these deeper mechanics with an accessible arcade style, creating an intriguing gameplay dynamic.
Formula Legends Reveal Screenshots
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Producer Francesco Mantovani shared that the team drew inspiration from 2023's New Star GP, but aimed to position Formula Legends between that game 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.
Although 3DClouds has a history of developing 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 highlighted the studio's long-held desire to develop this game, finally enabled by their resources and the growing popularity of F1. "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," Migliori stated.
The studio's proximity to Monza, Formula 1's legendary Temple of Speed, may have also played a role in the project's inspiration.
Formula Legends is set to launch later this year on Xbox One and Series X|S, PS4 and PS5, PC, and Switch. While 3DClouds does not currently have Switch 2 kits, Migliori confirmed their intent to explore this option when feasible.
