Not being a stranger to the Forza Motorsport series, I was looking forward to what the latest edition in the franchise had to offer once it was released.
Among the major improvements to the title, the first I noticed was the graphical enhancement. The look of the cars and environments is much cleaner than before, and the difference between this game and it’s predecessor, Forza Motorsport 3, is extremely noticeable. A great deal of time and attention was paid in adding beautiful details to the vehicles and maps.
Another great addition is that the campaign allows players the opportunity to get more involved in the game‘s world. In the World Tour, players are provided a rich amount of information on each race, such as where the payer is on the map, the conditions of the location, and the time of day. Certain times, like during sunset, really showcase the previously mentioned graphics.
Even though the game only shipped with a couple of new racetracks, all of the returning maps feel completely new because of the beauty of the design. However, while the graphics are top-notch, it would have been nice to see more new tracks and innovative ideas from the Forza team. As it was, the lack of new options for maps was more than a little disappointing.
That said, what new maps there are, are incredible. The track which features the Alps is easily one of the best-looking courses for a driving game. The detail that was put into the mountains in the background, as well as the rest of the environment, is just gorgeous.
The new Auto-Vista mode, which allows the player to look in detail at a car, is great for car fanatics. This new mode allows players to get more invested in their vehicle by being able to look at all aspects of it, and is made even more immersive thanks to the graphical overhaul the title has received.
The new steering physics are ridiculous, with the handling providing an unbelievably realistic experience. This is especially true if using the Microsoft steering wheel set-up. The steering is just another element that the game uses to create the perfect driving experience.
There is also a new online car club, which is already gaining popularity. This online club allows players to team up and race other clubs, share cars, and earn a reputation. This new element gives players a completely different experience to base their racing around.
Something that makes the latest Forza game an even better experience is the implementation of Kinect controls. The use of head tracking, although not a major feature in the game, helps to further the sense of realism in the game, and even takes it a step further. The use of Kinect really makes the player feel as if they are in the car.
One large downside in the game is the fact that players can buy any car in the game with Microsoft points. Players that have money can get the nicer cars, even though they are a low-leveled driver. This aspect can take some of the satisfaction out of the game for those who do spend their time working to unlock everything the legitimate way.
Forza Motorsport 4 is not for amateur or casual racing fans. The game surpasses the title of a driving game, and is better described as a realistic driving simulator.
Players that expect a high-speed racing game with unrealistic braking when it comes to turns should look elsewhere. However, fans of the series looking for the next great racing challenge can rest assured that Forza Motorsport 4 is a triumph, and manages to exceed expectations and its predecessors.
