"Formula Legends: Where Art of Rally Meets F1"

Italian studio 3DClouds has unveiled *Formula Legends*, an exciting new game that draws inspiration from *Art of Rally* while embracing the spirit of arcade-style, open-wheel racing. This unlicensed tribute captures over 50 years of Formula 1's rich history, offering players a unique racing experience.

3DClouds provided IGN with an early glimpse into the development of *Formula Legends*. Although elements like AI behavior are still being refined, the dedication to authentically recreating various eras of F1 is already remarkable. The game will feature 16 car models, each with seven distinct liveries. These cars, though presented in a chunky, toy-style format, clearly pay homage to some of the most iconic racecar designs ever seen. The team has also placed significant emphasis on sound, crucial for capturing the essence of older F1 cars. Additionally, *Formula Legends* will support modding, allowing for customization of liveries, helmets, and trackside sponsors, which could significantly enhance the game's appeal.

The game will include 14 circuits, each with multiple variations reflecting their evolution from the 1970s to the 2020s, inspired by real-world locations. The story mode promises to be a highlight, offering era-based championships that guide players through pivotal moments in F1 history.

Racing in *Formula Legends* will involve nuanced elements such as tyre wear, fuel consumption, rubbered-in racing lines, damage, and dynamic weather. Each of the 200 drivers, including playfully named characters like Mike Shoemaker and Osvald Pastry, will have unique skill perks. It will be fascinating to see how 3DClouds balances these deeper mechanics with an accessible arcade-style approach.

Formula Legends Reveal Screenshots

View 18 Images

Producer Francesco Mantovani shared that the team drew inspiration from 2023's *New Star GP*, but aimed for a gameplay experience that lies between *New Star GP* and *Art of Rally*. "Art of Rally was the main inspiration we took for this game," Mantovani stated. "We appreciate how they worked on the camera and on the tracks."

While 3DClouds has primarily developed licensed racing games for younger audiences, such as *Paw Patrol Grand Prix*, *Fast & Furious: Spy Racers*, and *Hot Wheels Monster Trucks: Stunt Mayhem*, *Formula Legends* is a passion project developed independently by the studio. Executive producer Roberta Migliori emphasized the team's long-held desire to create this game, stating, "I think it’s a game that they’ve been wanting to make for a really, really long time, and finally we have the resources to do it." She also highlighted the timely release, coinciding with the soaring popularity of F1, and confirmed that the game is self-funded through profits from other projects.

The studio's location in Milan, near the legendary Monza circuit, likely adds a special touch to the project. *Formula Legends* is set to launch later this year on Xbox One and Series X|S, PS4 and PS5, PC, and Switch. Although the team does not currently have access to Switch 2 kits, Migliori mentioned they will explore this opportunity once ready.