Red Bull gives its tips for the F1 2017 video game
Red Bull took advantage of the winter break to give its advice on the development of the next F1 2017 video game, developed by Codemasters. A sign that e-sport is gaining in importance.
For several years, Red Bull has become much more than an energy drink brand and now has a dedicated audiovisual content production company, allowing it to highlight the athletes for whom it is the main sponsor.
On its main website, there are sections dedicated to its involvement in motorsports, whether it’s in F1, WRC, or MotoGP, as well as an equally important section dedicated to video games and another dedicated to e-sports.
In this context, the brand released its shopping list addressed to Codemasters, the holder of the F1 video game license, to highlight the improvements it deems necessary for the 2017 version of the game.
While some changes primarily address the game’s functionality, such as better artificial intelligence so that the behavior of machine-controlled competitors resembles that of humans or improved commentary, others tackle much more impactful concepts for the future of video games.
Thus, Red Bull requests that the game be compatible with a Virtual Reality headset to further enhance player immersion, allowing them to truly get into the skin of the pilots. Additionally, it is deemed necessary to have even more developed online gaming options than currently available.
A reflection at this level by a major player in the motorsport scene is thus very interesting. Especially as, in a synchronized manner, Franz Tost, the director of Toro Rosso, suggested in Autosport that e-races should be considered on Grand Prix Sunday mornings to attract younger generations: « We need to spark interest among the young, for example with e-games. Why not have an e-race on Sunday morning with a large broadcast where people all over the world can be involved to increase their interest? »
These remarks come as Formula E conducted a groundbreaking experiment earlier this month in Las Vegas, with an e-race pitting the 20 drivers from the discipline against the best e-gamers, for a total jackpot of one million dollars and 200,000 dollars for the winner.
We can also remember that at each Grand Prix, the F1 Game Zone is now set up, where precisely fans can come and exercise their talents behind the wheel and screen. GP2 and GP3 drivers also make regular appearances there.
Here are signs that the media environment is evolving and that different sports and organizations are groping to find the magic formula that will generate fan interest and therefore financial dividends for the sport.
With the participation of www.racingbusiness.fr
