The Forza series is a franchise of racing games for Xbox and Microsoft Windows, published by Xbox Game Studios. It is split into two distinct sub-series: the simulation-focused Forza Motorsport and the open-world, arcade-style Forza Horizon.
Forza Motorsport
Developed by Turn 10 Studios, the Motorsport series emphasizes realistic physics and competitive track racing. The franchise rebooted its naming convention with the most recent entry, simply titled Forza Motorsport, released in October 2023.
- Gameplay: Known as “simcade” games, they blend simulator and arcade features to be accessible to a wide range of players. The core experience involves racing on a variety of real-world and fictional closed-circuit tracks.
- Notable features: The series is known for its detailed car models, in-depth tuning and customization, and a robust online multiplayer system. The 2023 reboot introduced an RPG-inspired car leveling system where players earn “Car Points” to unlock upgrades for each vehicle individually.
- Recent state: While the 2023 Forza Motorsport received positive reviews for its graphics and driving feel, it was criticized by some of the community for its career mode and progression system.
Forza Horizon
Developed by Playground Games, the Horizon sub-series offers a more relaxed, arcade-style experience set in vast, vibrant open-world locations inspired by real-world areas.
- Gameplay: Players explore the fictional “Horizon Festival,” which features races and activities that are less restrictive than the track-focused Motorsport series. Players are rewarded for daring feats and can drive freely off-road.
- Vibrant locations: Each Horizon game is set in a different part of the world, with locations including Australia, the UK, and Mexico. The latest installment, Forza Horizon 5, features Mexico’s diverse landscapes and weather phenomena, including dust storms and tropical storms.
- Player-driven content: Since its first entry in 2012, the Horizon series has consistently received critical acclaim for its joyous gameplay, creative event creation tools (EventLab), and seamless online integration. It has become a must-play for casual and dedicated racing fans alike.
The ForzaTech engine
The proprietary engine developed by Turn 10 Studios, ForzaTech, is used across the entire Forza franchise. It is noted for its ability to deliver stunning visuals, realistic physics, and exceptional car sound design across both sub-series.
