Racing games tend to follow two paths – either striving for pure simulation or leaning into accessible arcade thrills. Formula Legends, developed by 3DClouds, aims to find a middle ground, offering a stylized tour through motorsport history that mixes authenticity with creative liberties. On PlayStation 5, it presents itself as both a tribute to Formula racing and an approachable entry point for players who may not usually dive into the genre.
At the heart of the game is its time-spanning concept, which lets you drive machines inspired by different eras, from the stripped-down rockets of the 1960s to modern hybrid beasts. This idea is well executed in Story Mode, where you compete in era-based championships and gradually see how the sport evolves. The fictional roster of rival drivers, each with unique strengths like tire management or wet-weather mastery, adds personality, even if the writing isn’t especially deep. It’s a setup that gives context to the races without overwhelming players with long cutscenes or overly complex narratives.
The handling of the cars strikes a balance between realism and accessibility. Each vehicle class has a distinct feel, with older models demanding careful control to prevent spins, while modern cars reward aggressive cornering and tactical use of energy systems. That said, purists may find the physics a little light, particularly in comparison to dedicated simulators. The inclusion of pit stops, changing weather, and strategic elements like slipstreaming provides depth, though AI behavior can feel inconsistent, with rivals swinging between being too passive and unrealistically aggressive.
Visually, Formula Legends adopts a colorful, stylized approach rather than chasing photo-realism – at times, it felt like a modern take on Virtua Racing. Circuits are clearly inspired by famous locations yet reimagined with bold flourishes, whether it’s racing past yacht harbors or across dramatic elevation shifts. This design choice pays off in giving the game a distinctive look, but not every track feels equally polished, and the visual clarity sometimes dips in wet-weather conditions. On the audio front, the engines roar convincingly and vary across eras, while the soundtrack opts for high-energy beats that complement the arcade feel, even if they occasionally repeat too much.
Controls are responsive on the DualSense, and adaptive triggers enhance immersion by giving resistance that mimics throttle and braking pressure. Still, some players may wish for finer customization options to tweak sensitivity, especially in the more demanding cars. Online modes and Time Attack leaderboards help extend replay value, though the multiplayer population will likely determine how lasting these features are. Customization options, from liveries to helmets, add a layer of personal expression but don’t reach the depth of genre heavyweights.
As a package, Formula Legends succeeds in delivering a fresh take on Formula racing. Its greatest strength lies in how it captures the spirit of different eras without overwhelming players with technical detail. The trade-off is that neither simulation fans nor arcade purists will find it fully aligned with their preferences, but for those willing to embrace its hybrid approach, there’s a rewarding, stylish racer here. It may not redefine the genre, but it carves out a unique niche that makes it worth taking for a spin.
Score: 7.2/10
Press Play Media 