Braking point: EA Sports’ blockbuster Formula 1 story mode gears up for its next evolution

The Evolution of Braking Point: A Dramatic Take on Formula 1

Since its debut in EA Sports F1 2021, the story-driven mode Braking Point has captivated fans with its compelling blend of high-octane racing drama and behind-the-scenes narratives. Now entering its third installment with F1 25, the series continues to expand on its initial premise, taking inspiration from the character-driven dynamics of Netflix's Drive to Survive. It's a mode designed to appeal not just to the sport's technical enthusiasts but also to those drawn in by Formula 1's human drama.

“I think that's why things like Drive to Survive were so successful in bringing in new fans to the sport,” said voice actress Emer Kenny, who portrays rising star Callie Mayer in the game. “You get to see all those characters and personalities behind the team and those drivers, and I think the game is similar.”

Kenny’s connection to Formula 1 comes primarily through her husband, a dedicated fan, but she’s been particularly captivated by McLaren driver Lando Norris. "He seems like a sweet guy, and he's not a cold winning machine," she noted. "It feels like he's dealing with all the pressures, which is a bit like what we play out in the game."

The Complex Dynamics of Braking Point 3

In Braking Point 3, the spotlight remains on the complex sibling dynamic between Callie Mayer and Devon Butler. Devon, voiced by Daniel Ben Zenou, is one of the series' most iconic characters and has been present since the story mode's inception. For Zenou, this third chapter allows his character to delve into uncharted territory.

"It's really a portrayal of the drivers behind the drivers," Zenou said. "It’s definitely expanded, and this next version is going to be bigger and broader than we’ve seen it before."

Devon and Callie’s relationship is fraught with tension. Once a Formula 1 driver himself, Devon bowed out early in Braking Point 2, paving the way for Callie to rise up after her groundbreaking championship win in Formula 2. The family dynamic only grows richer in Braking Point 3, with their father—who buys their race team—becoming an influential figure both on and off the track.

"Callie is hitting her stride," Kenny shared. "There are continuing struggles with dynamics and power and who she listens to within the team, but she's getting her head down and racing and trying to do her best job. And then something massive happens within her family and the team, and her and Devon’s reactions are extremely different. They both look at each other and struggle with that."

Devon's Journey and Real-Life Inspirations

For Devon, his story is about steering through career disappointment and redefining himself.

"He’s gone through this big old transition of having to let go of his dreams, effectively," Zenou explained. He noted that his portrayal of Devon drew inspiration from Formula 1 driver Lance Stroll and his father, Lawrence Stroll, whose dynamic as a driver and team owner has clear parallels to the Butler family.

The evolution of Braking Point since its inception has been nothing short of meteoric. Zenou reminisced about the relatively modest operation behind the first chapter.

"When we did the original, it was almost like a little tester to see if this story thing would work," he said. "We had maybe five to six people on the whole job when we were filming it and doing the [motion capture] in Pinewood Studios."

Fast forward to the present day, and Braking Point production is on a blockbuster scale.

"This last one, we had a massive 120-page script—a movie script, basically—and it must have been 50, 60 people in the huge mocap aircraft hangar. Just in terms of logistics, it's a totally different universe," Zenou explained.

Character Dynamics and Actor Reflections

Kenny relished the challenges presented by her character, particularly the rough edges that set Callie apart from traditional heroic archetypes.

"I'm kind of happy that there was a mixed reaction to her," she said. "It's nice to have some rough edges and some spikiness to play with."

As the character dynamics continue to mature, the actors remain invested in their respective roles. While Zenou envisions Devon fitting into a team like Ferrari—“The heritage, the style—that’s his vibe,” he said—Kenny feels that Red Bull suits Callie's “punchy and dynamic” personality.

Both actors admitted they’d jump at the chance to drive an actual Formula 1 car. Zenou, a former racing fan during the Senna, Schumacher, and Hill eras, even had a dream track in mind: Las Vegas. Kenny, though more hesitant, would ultimately take the dive, declaring, “I would be conflicted, but I would do it.”

Despite the absence of a real F1 cockpit, the pair thoroughly enjoyed the creative process, crafting performances that bring the drama of Braking Point 3 to life.

"We all have to do some mad stuff," Kenny reflected. "It’s the most fun. I love voicing anything where you get to use your imagination a bit more... You just sit there and imagine it, and then you just go for it."

As for their predictions for the actual F1 season, Zenou placed his bets on Max Verstappen—“You can never count him out,” he said—while Kenny has high hopes for her favorite, Lando Norris.

Braking Point 3 Launch and Expectations

The next chapter of Braking Point arrives on May 30, 2025, when EA Sports F1 25 launches for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. Whether you're in it for the hot laps or the heated drama, this installment promises to be the biggest yet in gaming’s most dramatic take on motorsport.

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