Ahead of the start of the upcoming E3 Entertainment Expo, Codemasters have released first previews of their upcoming F1 2011 title that is due to be released this fall.
The five preview show several cars from the 2011 Formula One season on track, including a shot of the wet weather mode that was one of the most impressive features of its predecessor.
Even though the first batch of previews dosen’t show off any new features yet, Codemasters have already announced that their second PC & Next Gen F1 title will include many features that had to be dropped from F1 2010 due to time constraints, including mechanical damage and the much-requested safety car.
Furthermore, Codemasters will also keep up with F1’s ever-evolving technology as KERS and DRS will be available in the new title to add new depth to the racing. The new title will also improve on the career mode introduced in F1 2010, offering an improved press feedback system and a brand new paddock & garage area.
While F1 2010 was already very impressive in the graphics department, especially in rain races, Codemasters aren’t resting on their laurels as several improvements to the graphics engine will be introduced including a new lighting system, a dynamic cloud system and even more trackside details.
Another area the studio will much more attention to this time is multiplayer as F1 2011 will include various new multiplayer options as 16 players can now enjoy online-racing together, 8 AI drivers can be added to simulate a full 24-car field. Also new is co-op mode that allows two players to tackle a complete career.
Perhaps most importantly, Codemasters is also planning extensive handling improvements as the title comes with an improved suspension and tire model as tire wear will become much more of an important factor as before.
F1 2011 will be released for the PC, Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 on September 23, right in time for the final races of the real life 2011 Formula One World Championship season.
