F1 2018 features substantial revisions to its "Career Mode" compared to previous systems. F1 2017 introduced a detailed progression system that allowed the player to focus on developing the engine, chassis and aerodynamics of their car. This was simplified in F1 2018 as Codemasters' research demonstrated that players were losing interest in the game before completing the car's development cycle.[2]
Players develop their cars by spending "development points", which are earned by meeting research and development targets during free practice sessions. Codemasters have introduced a wider range of free practice programs to the game in a bid to extend the game's longevity.[2] At the halfway point of each championship, the player has the option of ending their development cycle and banking all future development points for the next championship. This function has a renewed importance in F1 2018 as teams are subject to rule changes at the end of each championship which can potentially compromise the car's performance.[2]
As the game is based on the 2018 championship, the Circuit Paul Ricard made its debut in the series. The Hockenheimring, which was last featured in F1 2016, made its return to the game. Also due to 2018 regulations, the halo makes its debut in the F1 games. F1's official theme song, composed by Brian Tyler, also makes its debut in the F1 games in certain parts, such as the game's intro cinematic (2nd gameplay trailer), as well as the pre-race and post-race scenes.
The game also features an online multiplayer mode. There are different leagues that require the player to get an obligatory number of trophies to reach. The player can win or lose trophies depending on their performances on these online races. Actions such as cutting corners or colliding with other cars have a negative effect on the player's "Safety Rating". This rates players based on their overall cleanliness in a similar way to the Super License system for real Formula 1 drivers.
F1 2018 was the bestselling game in the United Kingdom during its first week on sale.[12] In Japan, the PlayStation 4 version sold 5,517 copies during its first week of release.[13] It was also the bestselling physical retail game across Europe, the Middle East and Africa throughout the week beginning on August 26, 2018, and the second-best selling digital game throughout the same week.[14]
^"Nominee List for 2018". National Academy of Video Game Trade Reviewers. 11 February 2019. Archived from the original on 13 February 2019. Retrieved 14 February 2019.