WATCH: Lando Norris Trials F1 2023 Game, Testing New Las Vegas Circuit

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EA Sports has bestowed an early release of their eagerly awaited F1 2023 game upon McLaren F1 driver, Lando Norris. The 23-year-old British driver was the first to experience the game's latest features, including the debut of the Las Vegas circuit, which is set to feature in this year's racing calendar.

The Car Actually Seems Alive

Norris lauded the game's improvements in gameplay and graphics, displaying a keen satisfaction with his character's design in this year's version. The debut experience saw Norris select the Las Vegas track, where he praised the enhanced audio, describing the car sounds as more authentic.

He further noted that the driving dynamics felt much more realistic, to the point where he claimed the car "actually seems alive." The young Briton showcased his racing prowess, claiming pole position in the qualifying round with an impressive lap time of 1:38.719, beating the second-fastest time by Lewis Hamilton by three seconds.

However, Norris' unfamiliarity with the track configuration and braking zones saw him finish the virtual race in 20th position, compounded by a six-second penalty. This real-world versus virtual juxtaposition is stark: Norris currently holds the 11th position in the actual Formula 1 championship standings with 12 points.

His most recent track performance placed him ninth in the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix.

F1 2023: A Realistic Racing Experience for Gamers

Slated for a June 16 release, F1 23 will be available across multiple platforms including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC via EA App, Epic Games Store and Steam.

Brandon Snow, Managing Director of Commercial at Formula 1, expressed delight over the ongoing collaboration with EA Sports. He cited the F1 2023 game as an additional channel for gamers and fans to engage with the sport and to experience the thrill of being behind the wheel.

Snow further revealed the excitement surrounding the addition of the Las Vegas circuit, giving fans a preview of what to expect in the inaugural Grand Prix later this year. Senior Creative Director at Codemasters, Lee Mather, also underlined the enhanced features in the new release.

He emphasized the game's increased race authenticity, the introduction of red flags and a 35% race distance, adding more unpredictability and strategic elements. The enhanced handling, he asserted, provides a more predictable behaviour and better traction, aiding players to attack the circuit and secure a spot on the podium.