F1 Career Challenge announced

Electronic Arts has today announced the forthcoming release of F1 Career Challenge (working title) on all current console platforms. The game will be different from EA's previous F1 games in that, although the game carries the official FIA license, players will be encouraged to create their own character as they attempt to become world champion.

The game's career mode will see players starting out as rookie drivers who must earn their super license before they're even allowed to race on the F1 circuit. Early in their careers, players will need to compete for rides with top teams, develop their skills, and even complete test days. The career mode spans the 1999-2002 seasons, with accurate driver and team data for each, meaning that players will actually have only four seasons to make a rookie the world champion.

"Consumer feedback told us that real innovation was needed in the Formula 1 space," said executive producer Matt Webster. "In our desire to deliver the strongest Formula 1 experience to date, we have stepped up to the mark and are now developing the first ever multiyear licensed Formula 1 game where you can build your racing career across four seasons."

Other improvements to the game will include more realistic AI for the other drivers, motion-captured mechanics in the garages, and in-car feedback for the player from both the team boss and mechanic.

F1 Career Challenge is scheduled for release in Europe in April or May this year. No North American release has been confirmed at this time, but we'll bring you more information on the game as soon as it becomes available.