Forza Motorsport Review 2023: A New Benchmark in Racing Realism

Forza Motorsport brings a new level of authenticity, tuning the Motorsport franchise to near perfection. Despite a few bumps along the way, the game shines, especially when pushing the pedal to the metal online.

Unparalleled Driving Dynamics

Forza Motorsport is a standout in the franchise, and perhaps in the whole genre, when it comes to the feeling of being on the track. It doesn’t stray too far from the Forza formula but enhances it in significant ways. The tactile sensation of gripping the road, pushing the car to its limit, and feeling every skid, swerve, or slide is the series' best yet. If Forza Motorsport 7 had its quirks in handling, this iteration has refined them to deliver a more true-to-life racing experience.

The Beauty of the Track

This isn't just about the drive - it's about the environment. Each vehicle, whether a 1970 Dodge Coronet Super Bee or the iconic Lamborghini Countach, glistens and roars with realism. The game's circuits, from the unforgiving Laguna Seca to the mesmerizing rain-soaked midnight drives, are designed with unparalleled attention to detail. This makes taking in the scenery almost as enjoyable as the race itself - if you could spare a moment from the high-speed action!

A Career Mode in Need of a Pit Stop?

While the fundamentals of the game are robust, its single-player career mode leans a bit towards the traditional side. Although the cars and tracks are the series' best, the gameplay structure could have benefited from a fresher approach. The game's effort to combine simulation with gamification sometimes feels at odds with itself, particularly with the practice race format and the ability to choose one's grid position. Yet, these elements, though seemingly contradictory, add layers to the gameplay, making every race unique.

Online Racing: Where Rubber Meets the Digital Road

Where Forza Motorsport truly shines is its online component. Whether customizing a lobby with precision controls or participating in official multiplayer series, every race is filled with excitement, strategy, and surprisingly clean racing. This robust online experience, emphasizing tire management, clean driving, and hours of practice, will undoubtedly sustain a dedicated community of racers for years to come.

A Victory Lap with Room for Improvement