Following yesterday's countdown teaser, Codemasters has lifted the lid on F1 22. Yes, this year's F1 title is renamed from F1 2022 to F1 22, marking a new era for Codemasters' F1 games after the company was acquired by EA.
Described as the "biggest shake-up for over a decade" for the F1 series, F1 22 features the new hybrid cars, along with new Sprint and F1 Life modes and VR support.
F1 Life
As leaked last month by Tom Henderson, one of the surprise new features in F1 22 is a new lifestyle mode dubbed "F1 Life."
Simulating the glamorous lifestyle of an F1 driver, this customisable hub allows players to show off their collection of supercars, clothing, and clothing earned by progressing through the game.
A new Pirelli Hot Laps mode also lets you put supercars you own through their paces on the track. Codemasters hasn't confirmed which supercars you can drive, but supercars from "some of the biggest names in the sport" will feature.
Rumours suggest supercars are only driveable offline, but Codemasters hasn't confirmed this yet.
Sprint Races
Reflecting the recent rule changes, F1 Sprint Races will feature in F1 22 for the first time in the series.
My Team mode is also enhanced in F1 22, allowing players to choose their starting budget based on three entry points: Newcomer, Challenger, and Front Runner.
The International Autodrome circuit for the inaugural Miami Grand Prix joins F1 22's track roster.
In addition, F1 22 features updated versions of the Australia, Spain, and Abu Dhabi circuits reflecting their real-life changes.
The ten-year Career mode, split-screen, and online multiplayer also return.
New Broadcast and Immersive options
F1 22 introduces new Immersive and Broadcast options that affect formation laps, safety car periods, and pit stops.
Immersive mode, features "risk-reward challenges," while Broadcast adds "controlled and authentic cinematics" putting players closer to the action.
Adaptive AI
Making the game more accessible for new and casual fans, Codemasters' new Adaptive AI system adjusts the AI drivers in races to match your skill level.
Refreshed Practice Programs also feature new scoring systems and on-track visualisations to help less experienced players.
VR support
For the first time in the series, F1 22 will support VR on PC. While Codemasters hasn't shown any VR gameplay yet, F1 22 will support Oculus Rift and HTC Vive devices, heightening the immersion.
Release date
Codemasters has confirmed F1 22 will release on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC on 1 July. Preordering the Champions Edition will also provide three days early access from 28 June.
Trailer
Accompanying the announcement is the first F1 22 trailer. Sadly, the 30-second-long trailer doens't show any gameplay footage.
"We look forward to welcoming our players to the new era of Formula 1," said Lee Mather, F1 Senior Creative Director at Codemasters.
"Alongside the real-world changes, we have updated the physics to accommodate the new aero rules and re-worked the tyre model, making the handling more true to life."
"With new and updated circuits, Adaptive AI, F1 Life, and expanded gameplay options, there has never been a better time for players to take their seats and live the life of an F1 driver."