rFactor 2 to Feature Official Formula E Licence?

[Paul Jeffrey]

It appears as if Studio 397 have secured an official licence to recreate the electric Formula E series in rFactor 2.

Thanks to some impressive detective work from @William Marsh of Sim Racing Paddock, official posts on both the Formula E jobs website and LinkedIn have been spotted that suggest the electric racing series will be getting the sim racing treatment, with Studio 397 and rFactor 2 cited as the simulation software with which the virtual series will call home in the near future.

Love it or loath it, Formula E seems to be a series very much in vogue these past few weeks, and with an increase in eSport and sim racing awareness amongst racing series throughout the globe, it is perhaps not unsurprising to see one of the big developers snap up an official licence for the championship sooner rather than later.

Potentially thanks to the close ties between rFactor 2 and Formula E already formed with the recent Vegas $1m eSport event last year, it appears as if Studio 397 have stolen a march on their sim racing rivals and wrapped up the deal to replicate the series officially in a racing simulation.

Reviewing the advent posted below, it does look like the new deal could mean more than simply locking down a single car from the series (as has been done in other games), with indications strongly suggesting the licence includes a deal to bring all cars, liveries and tracks to the game alongside a very high likelihood of some kind of sanctioned eSport event using the rFactor 2.

Could this mean a more prolonged online competition similar to the Vegas event, and can this move from Formula E and Studio 397 mark a first step towards a greater emphasis on structured online play in rFactor 2 in the future?

It has been well documented throughout many different threads and posts the conflicting opinions of race fans on Formula E and electric racing, however one thing exceptionally positive to come from this deal is yet further confirmation that Studio 397 are making a concerted effort to focus content going forward, rather than the sometimes disjointed approach of single car releases that have often made up the release schedule in years past.

Studio 397 were unwilling to offer an official comment on the Formula E job postings when approached by RaceDepartment earlier today.

For those curious, you can read the full job description below, and apply for the post yourself by visiting the Formula E jobs site HERE.

Role: Gaming Product Manager
Location: London
Status: Full Time Employee
Band: 2
Reporting to: Senior Digital Marketing Manager

Your role
Console/Mobile
-Work with developer needs (liveries, data) for IP integrations of cars/tracks
-Push gaming partners to feature FE integrations through competition/exposure within the game
-Sync marketing, PR and comms across FE and gaming partners

Sim Racing
-Develop rFactor 2 with Studio 397
--Ensure delivery of Studio 397 timeline to release of title
--Liaise with internal departments to make sure all liveries, tracks and data is passed on to Studio 397
--Work with Studio 397 to manage the launch and community on Steam
-Issue a RFP for broadcast/esports competition for providers
--Confirm dates for the proposed 4 Season 4 online races
--Work with esports TO/broadcaster for talent, rules and stewarding
-Team integration
--Build plan for teams to take game software
--Help teams develop software integration strategy, with local activations

At track
-Manage event space consisting of
--Moving simulators from DHL drop off point to stage
--Networking of machines
--Installing monitors
--Packing empty lids for DHL to remove
--Running server to record times and control cameras for eRace
--Coordinate the fan(s) who are participating in the eRace to attend
--Manage and train volunteer staff for simulator use
--Manage queue system and be responsible for customers in the gaming area
--Coordinate drivers participating in eRace with communications team
--Coordinate branding with specific driver names on the back on simulators
--Manage and run eRace with broadcast partner
--Pack down equipment, box monitors, install lids on simulators and place back to DHL pickup point.

Desired skills and experience
The successful candidate must have experience in delivering gaming events to a high standard. Additionally, candidates should be able to demonstrate:
-Knowledge and a passion for video games and eSports
-A relatable degree
-Experience of managing multiple projects from strategic conception to execution and analysis
-Experience of delivering events on time and to budget
-Evidence of developing comprehensive marketing and promotional plans to deliver gaming or eSports events
-The ability to collaborate effectively across business functions to understand and prioritise varying product requirements
-A recognised Project Management qualification (Prince 2, PMI) would be beneficial


rFactor 2 is a racing simulation exclusive to PC. You can purchase the game directly from Steam with immediate effect.

Check out the rFactor 2 sub forum here at RaceDepartment for all the latest news and discussion with regards to the simulation. You can take part in lively debates with fellow rFactor 2 fans and take part in some great Club and League racing events..! Head over to the forum now and share the love this simulation so very much deserves...

Pleased to hear of official Formula E content coming to rFactor 2? Any particular series you would like to see added to the sim in future? Let us know in the comments section below!

 

[William Marsh]

Hey guys! Thanks for the shout-out ;D

I know there's a lot of discussion in this thread about "Why Formula E" and Why is Studio 397 putting effort in that racing series?! And I have a theory.

I'm not Studio 397's planning team, but my theory is similar to why sometimes we see a lot of remakes of video games by "smaller
studios". They use already existing data, and an "Easier" project, to gain revenue, to tackle their larger project with a greater budget.

I think S397 is doing something similar: tackle something that may be "easier", like the Formula E, which sounds like they're being fed data on a silver platter by the racing organization, so they can earn more resources and money, which can be used to secure more lucrative licenses, getting more exciting cars, optimize the engine, etc.

It's no secret that Formula E is really throwing money out there. I mean, they threw out over 1 million dollars for a one-off race event! (For the record, some people wrote it was Mak-Corp who developed that mod and track for the race. It actually was CloudSport who made the content for the event).

I bet Studio 397 is getting a pretty hefty check for putting Formula E in rFactor 2. I wouldn't be surprised if they will get royalties from it as well, if the content is used in championships and what not. That money will work great in terms of securing licenses for tracks and different series. I've heard that the license for the Le Mans track is somewhere north of $30,000 to acquire, so you definitely need some moola to get that!

Also, other titles do things like this too. Remember how Assetto Corsa got the Porsche license? Part of that was because they partnered up with the manufacturer to create the cars needed for the Simulator in their Experience centers. That's why we also have Porsche SUVs in Assetto Corsa. That opened the door to more Porsches coming to AC.

Studio 397 is looking Long Term for rFactor 2, and I'm excited to see what comes. I haven't really watched Formula E, but I think this will at least be interesting from a racing standpoint!

 

[Deleted member 130869]

.

 

[protonv5]

Say what you like, but Mercedes and Porsche entering FE is a coup for Mr Agag. He brings the races to the people and he is going to become more $ucce$$ful as time goes on. There are some good drivers in FE as well. The board of directors of these major manufacturers have made it clear that hybrid and electric tech is the future of motor racing. A real shame for LeMans (ACO) and DTM though. They are going to have to reduce the cost of going racing and get very creative moving forward.....

Uh, no. The major manufacturers: Porsche, Mercedes whoever else, only prove that they are receiving massive government subsidies. No one understands this? Porsche is no longer the family business it used to be. It's owned by a much larger group now. Run by the new pencil-pushers. They go only where the money is. And.....wait for it.....the money is with Electric Vehicles. Why? Because the government is handing out freshly printed tax payer money to any company that produces all-electric cars. Look at Tesla. The hero of the world! Oooh. Aaaah. Such wonderful people! Elon Musk! What a great man! I wish I had a company like his that made a car that is over-priced, and loses more than $4,000 per car. But it doesn't matter. The US government gives him huge subsidies and makes up the difference! Pure genius! And guess who gets to make up the difference! I do! Through higher taxes. See how it works? Electric! It's the future! (Of higher taxes, government scams and extremely uncool racing)

http://www.automobilemag.com/news/tesla-loses-397-million-first-quarter-2017/
https://www.fool.com/investing/gene...losing-billions-as-solarcity-and-tesla-m.aspx
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-teslamotors-cash-insight-idUSKCN0QE0DC20150810

 

[Jockey]

Hey guys! Thanks for the shout-out ;D

I know there's a lot of discussion in this thread about "Why Formula E" and Why is Studio 397 putting effort in that racing series?! And I have a theory.

I'm not Studio 397's planning team, but my theory is similar to why sometimes we see a lot of remakes of video games by "smaller
studios". They use already existing data, and an "Easier" project, to gain revenue, to tackle their larger project with a greater budget.

I think S397 is doing something similar: tackle something that may be "easier", like the Formula E, which sounds like they're being fed data on a silver platter by the racing organization, so they can earn more resources and money, which can be used to secure more lucrative licenses, getting more exciting cars, optimize the engine, etc.

It's no secret that Formula E is really throwing money out there. I mean, they threw out over 1 million dollars for a one-off race event! (For the record, some people wrote it was Mak-Corp who developed that mod and track for the race. It actually was CloudSport who made the content for the event).

I bet Studio 397 is getting a pretty hefty check for putting Formula E in rFactor 2. I wouldn't be surprised if they will get royalties from it as well, if the content is used in championships and what not. That money will work great in terms of securing licenses for tracks and different series. I've heard that the license for the Le Mans track is somewhere north of $30,000 to acquire, so you definitely need some moola to get that!

Also, other titles do things like this too. Remember how Assetto Corsa got the Porsche license? Part of that was because they partnered up with the manufacturer to create the cars needed for the Simulator in their Experience centers. That's why we also have Porsche SUVs in Assetto Corsa. That opened the door to more Porsches coming to AC.

Studio 397 is looking Long Term for rFactor 2, and I'm excited to see what comes. I haven't really watched Formula E, but I think this will at least be interesting from a racing standpoint!

Hey William, Let me share my theory with you:

 

[hitm4k3r]

Not really interested in this type of "racing". It simply has no soul and I will most likel not buy any form of DLC or anything. The only thing that could be a bit interesting are the tracks and the features, but the car and series in itself is the complete opposite for me of what motorsport is about. It sounds, looks and smells like

 

[Kresh]

sound is terrible in these cars in real life, but lucky us this is simracing, I am sure a modder could give us some V12 sounds maybe .

 

[Enerjex]

And people complained about AC getting the 2017 Ferrari F1 DD

 

[Raikku]

As an addon, could buy this if it's like 9,99€ etc.

 

[John-Eric Saxén]

I honestly don't mind sounds as much as I'm concerned about this:

And imagine that it'll be like phones - no spare parts, no replacements, people'll be forced (or dumbed down) to buy a new electric car every year or so. Overproducing.
Plus I am sure the electric cars won't have much appeal and service structure in 3rd world countries, and even in the suburbs. And petrol cars will be raised in price a lot. And not everyone wants to live in the big cities, huh.

AFAIK in a consumer Tesla most people can use the same battery easily for 3 to 5 years, it's a myth that they would need replacing every year.

 

[pjlee1998]

Can't wait to be honest. Think it'll be interesting to feel the acceleration in Sim, and also be weird to not have the car get lighter through the race. But these things look tail happy which should be heaps of fun.

 

[pjlee1998]

I would never install this silent piece of crap in a racing sim.

(Genuinely interested) Why does sound matter? I understand sound adds to the atmosphere but surely in racing close battles and overtakes should come first over sound?

 

[KittX]

AFAIK in a consumer Tesla most people can use the same battery easily for 3 to 5 years, it's a myth that they would need replacing every year.

A matter of the location I think. Doubt that'll be applicable to cold & humid nordic areas. Or even further in the north, when you leave car parked at night at -40c. Doubt that you can take the batteries home, like people do for petrol cars..

 

[gianlucaP]

'

 

[kimbo]

Need to argue?

 

[Fonsecker]

As a sound guy, i think, even a Formula E car can sound pretty nice. With good wind noise, nice e-motor/transmission sounds even this can can produce a good speed feeling.

It could be better than a petrol engine car with bad, synthetic and digital sounds as it is comon in the most racing games.

 

[Andy_J]

As an addon, could buy this if it's like 9,99€ etc.

I would supply my paypal account email to Studio 397 so that they can pay me £9.99 to play it. In fact it would take more than that.

 

[PaulH]

Need to argue?

Hahaha cant stop laughing thank you for these vids
Oh boy! I forgot how bad FE sounded , and this is the "future".....................

 

[Ace King]

In my opinion this shows how important engine sounds really are for the motorsports audience and it's future!

 

[Raikku]

As a sound guy, i think, even a Formula E car can sound pretty nice. With good wind noise, nice e-motor/transmission sounds even this can can produce a good speed feeling.

It could be better than a petrol engine car with bad, synthetic and digital sounds as it is comon in the most racing games.

And if I remember right, before this season there were comparisons/videos in net on some page which showed that actually different teams/cars sound different that other ones.

So that mean that we still need talented sound technicians to get all those nuances to our sims.

 

[FastFreddie]

View attachment 204210
It appears as if Studio 397 have secured an official licence to recreate the electric Formula E series in rFactor 2.

Thanks to some impressive detective work from @William Marsh of Sim Racing Paddock, official posts on both the Formula E jobs website and LinkedIn have been spotted that suggest the electric racing series will be getting the sim racing treatment, with Studio 397 and rFactor 2 cited as the simulation software with which the virtual series will call home in the near future.

Love it or loath it, Formula E seems to be a series very much in vogue these past few weeks, and with an increase in eSport and sim racing awareness amongst racing series throughout the globe, it is perhaps not unsurprising to see one of the big developers snap up an official licence for the championship sooner rather than later.

Potentially thanks to the close ties between rFactor 2 and Formula E already formed with the recent Vegas $1m eSport event last year, it appears as if Studio 397 have stolen a march on their sim racing rivals and wrapped up the deal to replicate the series officially in a racing simulation.

Reviewing the advent posted below, it does look like the new deal could mean more than simply locking down a single car from the series (as has been done in other games), with indications strongly suggesting the licence includes a deal to bring all cars, liveries and tracks to the game alongside a very high likelihood of some kind of sanctioned eSport event using the rFactor 2.

View attachment 204211

Could this mean a more prolonged online competition similar to the Vegas event, and can this move from Formula E and Studio 397 mark a first step towards a greater emphasis on structured online play in rFactor 2 in the future?

It has been well documented throughout many different threads and posts the conflicting opinions of race fans on Formula E and electric racing, however one thing exceptionally positive to come from this deal is yet further confirmation that Studio 397 are making a concerted effort to focus content going forward, rather than the sometimes disjointed approach of single car releases that have often made up the release schedule in years past.

Studio 397 were unwilling to offer an official comment on the Formula E job postings when approached by RaceDepartment earlier today.

For those curious, you can read the full job description below, and apply for the post yourself by visiting the Formula E jobs site HERE.

Role: Gaming Product Manager
Location: London
Status: Full Time Employee
Band: 2
Reporting to: Senior Digital Marketing Manager

Your role
Console/Mobile
-Work with developer needs (liveries, data) for IP integrations of cars/tracks
-Push gaming partners to feature FE integrations through competition/exposure within the game
-Sync marketing, PR and comms across FE and gaming partners

Sim Racing
-Develop rFactor 2 with Studio 397
--Ensure delivery of Studio 397 timeline to release of title
--Liaise with internal departments to make sure all liveries, tracks and data is passed on to Studio 397
--Work with Studio 397 to manage the launch and community on Steam
-Issue a RFP for broadcast/esports competition for providers
--Confirm dates for the proposed 4 Season 4 online races
--Work with esports TO/broadcaster for talent, rules and stewarding
-Team integration
--Build plan for teams to take game software
--Help teams develop software integration strategy, with local activations

At track
-Manage event space consisting of
--Moving simulators from DHL drop off point to stage
--Networking of machines
--Installing monitors
--Packing empty lids for DHL to remove
--Running server to record times and control cameras for eRace
--Coordinate the fan(s) who are participating in the eRace to attend
--Manage and train volunteer staff for simulator use
--Manage queue system and be responsible for customers in the gaming area
--Coordinate drivers participating in eRace with communications team
--Coordinate branding with specific driver names on the back on simulators
--Manage and run eRace with broadcast partner
--Pack down equipment, box monitors, install lids on simulators and place back to DHL pickup point.

Desired skills and experience
The successful candidate must have experience in delivering gaming events to a high standard. Additionally, candidates should be able to demonstrate:
-Knowledge and a passion for video games and eSports
-A relatable degree
-Experience of managing multiple projects from strategic conception to execution and analysis
-Experience of delivering events on time and to budget
-Evidence of developing comprehensive marketing and promotional plans to deliver gaming or eSports events
-The ability to collaborate effectively across business functions to understand and prioritise varying product requirements
-A recognised Project Management qualification (Prince 2, PMI) would be beneficial


rFactor 2 is a racing simulation exclusive to PC. You can purchase the game directly from Steam with immediate effect.

View attachment 204212 View attachment 204213

Check out the rFactor 2 sub forum here at RaceDepartment for all the latest news and discussion with regards to the simulation. You can take part in lively debates with fellow rFactor 2 fans and take part in some great Club and League racing events..! Head over to the forum now and share the love this simulation so very much deserves...

Pleased to hear of official Formula E content coming to rFactor 2? Any particular series you would like to see added to the sim in future? Let us know in the comments section below!

Any chance of motor bikes especially the IOM TT or Motogp