The new classic content is good, but there's little here that adds to the racing experience overall.
The F1 series from Codemasters feels like it's in a bit of a flux, at least to me. On the one hand, it does a lot to cater to fans of the racing circuit, but on the other, it doesn't do enough to expand upon that audience, even with the ability to turn on driving assist systems and open up new events worldwide. F1 2013 feels like it's in a holding pattern as a result. There's enough here to satisfy fans, but nothing that really makes it feel like an evolution in racing. It's like taking a ride in an antique grand prix car and not being allowed to take it full throttle. There's joy to it, but very little innovation or risk.
Perhaps the biggest feature added to this year's version – depending on which one you end up buying – is the classic content. Six drivers and cars from the sport's yesteryear are available here, and you can either take them through classic events or the more current scene. It's an interesting time paradox, and presents a dreamy scenario to F1 fans, but it doesn't really have the kind of draw to bring in newcomers. Can general audiences even name a classic F1 driver, I wonder?
Outside of that, most of last year's content remains intact. The Season Challenge and Career modes are good for enthusiasts of the sport, as you'll go into circuit races and take on tournaments against other aggressive drivers. However, they're also not changed much from last year's game. I swear, running through a circuit event, I felt like I was playing F1 2012 all over again, with little to no changes to deal with. It was like a rerun – and that's the last feeling a driving game should leave you with.
