Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Formula 1 98 delivers an extensive suite of race modes that cater to both arcade thrill-seekers and simulation purists. In Arcade mode, you can jump straight into the action, selecting track and car to chase checkpoints and time extensions as you whiz by iconic landmarks. The Arcade Time Trial strips the experience down even further, focusing purely on lap times with fixed cars and circuits, while Arcade Challenge throws a series of escalating objectives at you, pitting you against increasingly skilled AI in penalty-free sprint races.

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For those craving authenticity, the Grand Prix mode is where the game truly shines. Extensive car setup options—from suspension and brakes to aerodynamic tweaks—invite tinkering and experimentation. Practice sessions and qualifying runs let you dial in handling, weather and tire wear before race day. During the main event, you’ll juggle pit stop strategy, fuel loads and tire management under the watchful eyes of race flags and mechanical failure toggles, making each Grand Prix feel like a genuine 1998 season showdown.

Split-screen multiplayer and four-player link cable support broaden the fun, letting friends go head-to-head on any of the 16 official circuits. The new in-car camera view, plus a suite of external angles and a dedicated rear-view mirror triggered by the D-pad, offer unparalleled immersion. And thanks to the track touring feature, former F1 driver Martin Brundle guides you around each course, highlighting braking points, overtaking zones and track quirks before you even hit the tarmac.

Graphics

On the PlayStation and PC hardware of its day, Formula 1 98 pushes visuals to their limit, rendering detailed car models for all 11 teams—Ferrari, McLaren, Williams, Benetton and beyond—with authentic liveries and driver helmets. Tracks such as Monaco’s winding streets and Suzuka’s figure-eight layout spring to life with crisp textures, dynamic lighting and convincingly rendered trackside scenery. Even crowd animations and pit lane details add to the spectacle.

Weather effects and track surface reflections bolster realism, especially in Grand Prix events where rain can arrive mid-race, turning familiar circuits into slippery challenges. The newly introduced in-car dashboard view and separate mirror display further enhance the graphical fidelity, providing a believable sense of speed and peripheral awareness that few racing titles of the era could match.

Camera transitions feel smooth, whether you’re snapping between helicopter, chase and bonnet cam or holding the mirror button to glance behind. The consistent frame rate during multiplayer split-screen is impressive, ensuring that even when four players share a screen, the action remains fluid and responsive. Overall, the graphics strike a fine balance between arcade flair and simulation detail.

Story

While Formula 1 98 doesn’t follow a traditional narrative, it builds its own storyline through season progression, commentary and career challenges. As you compete in each Grand Prix, Murray Walker’s iconic voice crackles over the speakers, weaving in real-time updates and race drama that keep you hooked. His enthusiastic exclamations—paired with Martin Brundle’s technical insights—immerse you in the ebb and flow of 1998’s championship battles.

The Championship mode serves as a makeshift career mode, pitting you against all 22 drivers across 16 circuits. You’ll battle David Coulthard on the A1-Ring, chase Michael Schumacher at Magny-Cours and attempt daring overtakes at Spa-Francorchamps. Each weekend feels like part of a larger narrative, where podium finishes, mechanical woes and wet-weather upsets contribute to your own version of the season story.

The pre-race track tour led by Brundle also injects a sense of history and context, offering background anecdotes about each circuit’s quirks and past races. Whether you’re tackling the high speeds of Monza or mastering the parabolica at Imola, these introductions provide a narrative framework that bridges the gap between pure racing and a sport rich in tradition.

Overall Experience

Formula 1 98 stands as a comprehensive package for any racing enthusiast. Its dual focus on arcade accessibility and simulation depth ensures both casual players and veteran kart-to-Formula drivers find something to love. The sheer number of modes—from pick-up-and-play races to full-season Championships—combined with robust multiplayer options, guarantees high replay value.

Authentic presentation, complete with all teams, drivers and tracks from the real 1998 season, delivers a licensed experience that’s hard to beat. Commentary by Murray Walker and Martin Brundle, plus the in-car and touring features, deepen immersion and lend the game a broadcast-quality feel. The balance of visual polish and performance keeps the action smooth, even in split-screen duels.

Ultimately, Formula 1 98 remains a standout title for its era. It captures the spirit of late-90s Grand Prix racing while offering enough modes, adjustable difficulty and car tuning to satisfy a wide range of players. Whether you’re after quick arcade thrills or a season-long simulation, this title provides an engaging and authentic taste of Formula One.

Retro Replay Score

7.2/10