Forza is the latest racer to embrace the drive-where-you-want ethos of open-world design.
And the change of pace – as well as a switch in developer – results in one of the series’ most engrossing instalments.
Forza Horizon takes Forza 4’s obsession for car simulation and sticks it in the middle of a Glastonbury-esque festival in Colorado.
The dusty streets and colossal freeways are yours to cruise and you’ll encounter loads of race-related distractions along the way. Behind the wheel, Horizon finds a comfortable medium between authentic simulation and arcade-style flair – but it’s a realistic Forza experience under the hood. Handling is responsive and satisfying and players will discover a new mix of assisted yet thrilling off-road racing too.
An RPG-style points system and countless hidden upgrades ensure exploration is consistently rewarding and entertaining.
But long-term fans should not expect the comprehensive list of customisation and online features the main series has become famous for.
