Italian studio 3DClouds has unveiled Formula Legends, a captivating take on arcade-style, open-wheel racing inspired by Art of Rally. This game offers an unlicensed tribute to more than 50 years of Formula 1 racing history, capturing the essence and excitement of the sport in a unique, engaging way.
In an exclusive preview with IGN, 3DClouds showcased the impressive efforts to authentically recreate various eras of F1. While aspects such as AI behavior are still being refined, the dedication to historical accuracy is already evident and commendable.
Formula Legends will boast 16 car models, each featuring seven distinct liveries. These cars, while presented in a chunky, toy-like style, are unmistakable homages to iconic F1 racecar designs. The team at 3DClouds has placed significant emphasis on sound, a crucial element in capturing the essence of older F1 cars. Additionally, the game will support modding, allowing players to customize liveries, helmets, and trackside sponsors, enhancing the overall experience.
The game includes 14 circuits, each with multiple variations reflecting their evolution from the 1970s to the 2020s, inspired by real-world locations. Formula Legends' story mode promises a journey through the defining moments of F1 history, organized into era-based championships.
Racing in Formula Legends will be nuanced, featuring over 200 drivers, including playfully named characters like Mike Shoemaker and Osvald Pastry. Players will need to consider skill perks, tyre wear, fuel consumption, racing lines, damage, and dynamic weather, blending these deeper elements with an accessible arcade-style approach.
Formula Legends Reveal Screenshots
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Producer Francesco Mantovani shared that the game draws inspiration from New Star GP but aims for a balance closer to Art of Rally in terms of gameplay. "We tried to move it in line between New Star GP and Art of Rally, in terms of gameplay," Mantovani stated. "Art of Rally was the main inspiration we took for this game. We appreciate how they worked on the camera and on the tracks."
Although 3DClouds has primarily developed 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 represents a passion project created independently. Executive producer Roberta Migliori emphasized the studio's long-held desire to create this game, facilitated by resources gained from previous projects. "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," Migliori explained. She also noted the timing was ideal due to the increasing 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."
Being based in Milan, near Monza—F1's legendary Temple of Speed—has likely contributed to the team's passion and authenticity in developing Formula Legends.
Formula Legends is set to launch later this year on Xbox One and Series X|S, PS4 and PS5, PC, and Switch. While the team currently lacks Switch 2 development kits, Migliori confirmed they will explore this opportunity when ready.
