Strategy Informer  

A free-to-play browser game called F1 Online: The Game has been announced by Codemasters, and it will be launching in the first quarter of 2012.

It's a top-down racer and fans "create and manage their own team." This game will appeal to a "broad spectrum" of Formula 1 race fans around the globe.


"Building on the commercial and critical success of our high-definition FORMULA ONE games, this is an exciting opportunity to bring our passion for the sport and our expertise in racing to a new audience," said Codemasters Online VP, David Solari.

"With a bespoke design for accessible browser play, F1 ONLINE: THE GAME is a perfect complimentary experience to the HD series and will appeal to a broad spectrum of FORMULA ONE’s millions of fans worldwide.”

All drivers, teams and circuits from the 2011 FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP will be included in F1 Online when it launches next year.

"Players will have the opportunity to create their very own team and become immersed in a world of FORMULA ONE on a grand scale; choosing their team name, designing a livery and leading the development of a personal franchise," blurbed the press release.

"As racer and team boss, they will manage the commercial, research, production and race crew functions required for success on track." F1 Online is being developed using the Unity engine, which powers Battlestar Galactica Online.

For more information visit the official F1 Online: The Game website.