Formula Legends: Arcade-Style F1 Tribute Unveiled

Italian developer 3DClouds has introduced Formula Legends, an arcade-inspired racing game that echoes Art of Rally while honoring over five decades of Formula 1 history with an unlicensed twist.

3DClouds shared a preview with IGN, showcasing the game’s progress. While aspects like AI behavior are still being refined, the dedication to capturing various F1 eras stands out as remarkable.

Formula Legends includes 16 car models, each with seven unique liveries. These stylized, toy-like vehicles pay homage to iconic racecar designs through creative, off-brand tributes. The team has prioritized sound design, essential for evoking the character of vintage F1 cars. The game also supports modding, allowing customization of liveries, helmets, and trackside sponsors, promising significant community engagement.

The game features 14 circuits, each with variations reflecting their evolution from the 1970s to the 2020s, inspired by real-world tracks.

The story mode in Formula Legends sounds compelling, offering era-specific championships that guide players through pivotal moments in F1’s thrilling history.

Racing dynamics promise depth, with 200 unique drivers, including playful names like Mike Shoemaker and championship leader Osvald Pastry, each with distinct skill perks. Factors like tire wear, fuel management, dynamic racing lines, damage, and weather add complexity. Balancing these elements with an accessible arcade style will be key to the game’s appeal.

Formula Legends Reveal Screenshots

Producer Francesco Mantovani noted that the team drew inspiration from 2023’s New Star GP, a retro F1-themed racer, but aimed for a balance between its arcade roots and Art of Rally’s nuanced gameplay. “Art of Rally guided our approach to camera work and track design,” Mantovani explained.

While 3DClouds has a history of licensed racing titles for younger audiences, such as Paw Patrol Grand Prix and Hot Wheels Monster Trucks: Stunt Mayhem, Formula Legends is a passion-driven project, fully self-funded by the studio.

“This is a dream project we’ve long wanted to create,” said executive producer Roberta Migliori. “The sport’s rising popularity and our team’s passion made this the perfect time. Our work-for-hire projects provided the resources to make it happen.”

Based in Milan, near the iconic Monza circuit—Formula 1’s revered Temple of Speed—3DClouds’ location likely fueled their inspiration.

Formula Legends is set to release later this year on Xbox One, Series X|S, PS4, PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch. Migliori noted that while Switch 2 development kits are not yet available, the team is open to exploring that platform when feasible.