F1 24 Unveils Track and Driver Updates, Talks Raytraced DDGI

07.05.2024 - 16:51 / wccftech.com / Alessio Palumbo

Today, Codemasters has unveiled the track and driver updates fans can look forward to in the upcoming game F1 24. To begin with, Silverstone has undergone a significant update aimed at delivering authentic track accuracy on and around the track so that players may feel every bump, curb, and elevation change (11.3m!), just as the track's designers intended.

Spa-Francorchamps also got major tweaks, such as in Eau Rouge & Raidillon, which have been reprofiled and feature an updated run-off area. The Turn 11 (No Name) and the Bus Stop chicane have also been reprofiled. Moreover, F1 24 drivers should take caution while coming out of the Bruxelles curve, as the circuit now features a gravel 'trap' there.

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In Career mode, fans will notice new cutscenes added between the sessions, though the most interesting addition is arguably the audio samples borrowed from real broadcasts. When playing as one of the real drivers, you'll hear contextually relevant voice lines in certain situations, such as when crossing the finishing line or after a crash. Codemasters said there are hundreds of lines for fans to discover.

From a tech standpoint, the big new feature of F1 24 is Ray-Traced Dynamic Diffuse Global Illumination, which improves the lighting, shadows, and reflections during races and cutscenes alike. The 2024 drivers will also look better than ever thanks to the full hair rendering and improvements made to the EGO Engine's eye and skin shaders. As a reminder, F2 cars will feature the 2023 teams and liveries at launch, while the 2024 update will be released later in the year with a free update.

Speaking of iconic F1 drivers, there are more than ever, including the likes of Pastor Maldonado to Jamie Chadwick, while 1976 champions James Hunt and fan-favorite Juan Pablo Montoya are only available with F1 24 Champions Edition. Unlike previous F1 games, players will now be able to select an iconic driver and take them on a full career. Finally, in My Team, they can hire icons as teammates, including F1 Sim Racing champions Lucas Blakeley, Jarno Opmeer, and David Tonizza.

Last but not least, F1 23's World mode is expanded upon in Fanzone. After completing some early F1 World events, players will get to select their favorite team and driver for the upcoming in-game season, placing them in a Fanzone for each choice. Fanzone members compete against each other and earn Fan Points by playing the various modes in the F1 World. However they earn them, Fan Points contribute to the greater goal of community glory.

The Fanzone mode is said to offer unique challenges, including rewards for predicting the results of the real F1 season and