It had its work cut out for it, I’ll admit. Slightly Mad Studios recently reached new racing heights with its superb sequel Project Cars 2, and Sony’s knocking at the door with its own racing champion from Polyphony Digital, Gran Turismo Sport. So, yeah, this is the year when Forza Motorsport 7 has to redefine racing as we know it.
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Fortunately, it has. The team at Turn 10 have managed to take all the notes possible from the community, while still attaining the high level of quality we’ve come to expect from them, and created what could very well be the ultimate Forza racing game. That’s even considering last year’s incredible turnout, Forza Horizon 3.
First off, let’s talk about the visual beauty of the game, which is absolutely off-the-charts. Even if you’re playing on a “typical” Xbox One (in comparison to, say, an Xbox One X), you probably won’t find a more beautiful game in Microsoft‘s library. It just looks polished from one end to the other, from wonderfully lifelike vehicles (over 700 in all) to three dozen different tracks where you can prove your racing mettle, from Abu Dhabi to the good ol’ U.S. of A., from Virginia to the Daytona International Speedway.
Hitting The Road
While three dozen sounds a bit short-handed, keep in mind these are authentically recreated tracks from some of the best racing circuits in the world. Quality definitely outweighs quantity here, but you’ll be able to master each course across a number of difficulties, determined to get a first place victory every time. The weather conditions are mind-blowing as well, whether you’re racing through a rainstorm (with drops actually hitting the screen!) or taking the car out for a spin at dusk, with the sunset barely disappearing over the hill. Wow.
And the car models are outstanding, with shimmer on the hood, light-up headlights that flicker on at night (and show amazing details on the road), and the ability to adjust camera across a number of angles. And, like always, you can look all around your car in 360 degree fashion, so you can check your surroundings – and see who’s riding on your tail.
So we know the game can perform visually, but what about with sound? Forza Motorsport 7 has that covered as well, with racing engines that resemble the real deal, whether you’re taking a truck for a spin, or giving the new Porsche a run-through. There are also great little things to add to the ambience as well, like a helicopter buzzing overhead and other things, like lightning strikes, that are just too good to be true. I would’ve liked an option to have some in-game race music going (instead of just before and after each event), but overall it’s a pleasant experience that will really suck you in with its realism.
As for the gameplay, it’s up to the usual Forza standard, which is remarkable. You can tweak your driving performance with a number of assists, or go all out if you prefer a genuine racing challenge. No matter which way you go, the game simply feels amazing, as you master every turn, get the hang of passing cars (without having to use rewind, hopefully – but it’s there if you require it), or figure out how well you can brake around tight turns without losing too much momentum (or flying off the tracks, you little speedster, you).
Breaking Down The Features
Oh, and there are options. Tons of options. Let’s list how these work within the game…
Single Player – There are a number of circuits that are available to you here. You’ll start out in the lower ranks before making your way through all six, each with their own special races, challenges and one-on-ones with racing masters. This provides a great deal of longevity, as you’ll be able to level up your driver and unlock a plethora of cars along the way. With 700+ in all, you’ll be busy.
Local Multiplayer – Another great option, as you can go split-screen with a friend in two-player racing to see who’s the best. This is a great option if you’re not into online competition, so you can prove your worth with your buddy on a couch. (Or they can prove theirs.)
Customization – You want customization? You got it. Along with recommended skins from the community, you can design and upgrade your cars in a number of ways, and then even share said designs with the rest of the world. This is definitely time consuming, but well worth it for those wanting to define their rides in style.
Breaking Down The Rest, And Final Grade
Online Multiplayer – While it takes a little bit longer than expected to get into a racing event (the loading time is probably the game’s biggest issue, no matter which way you go), the online competition is quite enjoyable. You can challenge Drivatars to prove your dominance over friends, or take on real competition to see how you fare. Note: some drivers will have their work cut out for them with some expert racers, but it never hurts to get warmed up in single player first, so you understand everything about what the racing will bring. You can also tweak the rules of your race, if you feel like upping the stakes, or going for a Sunday drive.
Rewards Aplenty – You’ve got a lot of stuff to unlock in Forza 7, and it’s up to you how you want to unlock it. You can take more credits to purchase your own cars, pick special vehicles to add to your garage, and earn extra gear for your driver, including “flamin’ hot” racing duds and so much more. Talk about an abundance of stuff to go after.
So that about covers it. You’ve got a racing game that looks magnificent, sounds very good, and brings the type of gameplay, challenge and depth that could put any other racing game to shame – and that’s including the tough competition that’s making the rounds right now. Forza Motorsport 7 may be Microsoft’s main contender for the holiday season, but it’s a damn good one. It almost makes me wonder what Turn 10 can do with Forza 8 to top itself.
I got shivers thinking about it.
RATING: Four and a half stars out of five.
