Italian studio 3DClouds has unveiled Formula Legends, an arcade-style, open-wheel racing game inspired by Art of Rally and serving as a creative homage to over 50 years of Formula 1 history—albeit unofficially.
The studio offered IGN an exclusive preview of the game's current build. While certain aspects like AI behavior are still being refined, the depth of detail dedicated to capturing various F1 eras is already striking.
*Formula Legends* will include 16 car models, each featuring seven unique liveries. Though stylized with chunky, toy-like designs, each vehicle clearly channels some of the most iconic racecars in motorsport history. Sound design is also a top priority for the development team—an essential element when recreating the unmistakable roar of vintage F1 engines. Additionally, mod support will be available for liveries, helmets, and trackside sponsorships, offering fans extensive customization possibilities.Each of the 14 circuits in Formula Legends will feature multiple configurations reflecting how these tracks have evolved from the 1970s to the 2020s. These layouts are heavily inspired by real-world locations, adding authenticity to the experience.
The story mode promises to be one of the game’s highlights, delivering era-based championships that guide players through pivotal moments in F1’s storied past.
Racing mechanics appear nuanced and layered. With 200 drivers—including humorously named characters like Mike Shoemaker and Osvald Pastry—each comes with distinct skill perks. Factors such as tire degradation, fuel consumption, evolving racing lines, damage modeling, and dynamic weather conditions further enrich the gameplay. How 3DClouds balances these deeper systems with an accessible, arcade-friendly style will be fascinating to see.
Formula Legends Reveal Screenshots
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Producer Francesco Mantovani noted that while New Star GP (itself a retro-inspired F1 tribute) served as a starting point, the goal was to create something slightly less casual and more immersive with Formula Legends.
“We wanted to position the gameplay somewhere between New Star GP and Art of Rally,” said Mantovani. “Art of Rally was our main reference—we loved how they handled camera movement and track design.”
Although 3DClouds is best known for creating licensed racing titles aimed at younger audiences—such as Paw Patrol Grand Prix, Fast & Furious: Spy Racers, and Hot Wheels Monster Trucks: Stunt Mayhem—Formula Legends is described as a deeply personal project for the team, developed entirely independently.
Executive producer Roberta Migliori confirmed that the studio had long dreamed of making this kind of game and now finally has the resources to do so. She also pointed out that their previous work-for-hire projects helped fund the endeavor, especially as global interest in Formula 1 continues to grow.
“With the sport’s rising popularity and passionate fanbase, the timing just feels right,” she added. “This title is completely self-funded thanks to the success of our earlier games.”
Being based in Milan, only a short drive from the legendary Monza circuit—often referred to as the Temple of Speed and one of the oldest purpose-built racetracks in the world—has likely played a subtle role in shaping the studio’s deep appreciation for motorsport culture.
Formula Legends is scheduled to release 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 development kits, Migliori mentioned they would consider exploring that option once the game is closer to completion.
