F1 2013 Classic Edition Reveal

After weeks of anticipation, Codemasters finally unveiled their exciting innovations within their latest game in the BAFTA award winning F1 franchise. F1 2013 features all the latest drivers, cars and tracks from the current season, with updated handling models and redesigned tyres, (scaled tyre wear has also made a reappearance after it was scrapped in last season's game). Moreover, the inclusion of mid-session saves and new scenario modes will keep returning fans interested.

However, the most exciting development announced yesterday came in the form of a "Classic Edition" version of the title. This premium copy will feature 10 classic cars from the 1980's and 1990's along with 17 iconic drivers including the likes of Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost, David Coulthard, Eddie Irvine, and Mario Andretti. In addition to these cars, four tracks will be available in the Classic Edition. Brands Hatch and Jerez will feature in the 1980's collection and Estoril and Imola in the 1990's pack. Impressively, the classic cars are not restricted to the classic circuits and in turn, the 2013 cars are not restricted to the 2013 circuits. I am especially looking forward to attempting to tame an RB9 around Brands Hatch. Undoubtedly, the Classic Edition offers a host of single player and multiplayer content which will allow regular players to maintain interest for a greater time period.
The two classic packs not restricted to the Classic Edition. The 1980's pack will feature in the standard F1 2013 title, while the 1990's pack is exclusive to the Classic Edition at launch. However, the 1990's pack will be available as DLC within a few weeks of the game's release.
In terms of new and returning features, the Codemasters team have included as much as possible. It appears that they have significantly redesigned tyres to match similar degradation levels to what is visible in reality. Moreover, car characteristics will have more of a bearing on tyre degradation; If you are driving a Mercedes, it is of paramount importance that you look after your tyres. Meanwhile, tyre wear scaling has returned despite being dropped in last year's title. According to the Game Director Paul Jeal, the inclusion of this idea was due to the opinions of the community. Creative Director Steven Hood, supposedly preferred the idea of tyre wear being consistent irrespective of the race distance, yet due to the public's preference for different levels of tyre degradation, tyre wear scaling has returned.
Another interesting feature is mid-session saves. Back in 2006, Formula One titles on the PS2 allowed the player to save at any point within a race and return to that exact point in proceedings at a later date. After a long absence, this feature has made its first appearance in the Codemasters franchise and will undoubtedly support the more casual gamer. Hopefully, it will also encourage more people to complete 100% distance races, as they no longer need to complete it in one session.
On the whole, Codemasters seem to have made a game which will please both the devoted Formula One fans and the casual audience. The new Classic Edition is a genius inclusion to maintain the appeal of the franchise, which is now entering its fourth chapter. Release date and prices have not yet been announced, but expect some more F1 2013 content within the next few weeks.