Can You Play the New Forza Motorsport on Xbox One?
Answer: It’s Complicated
The latest installment in the Forza series, Forza Motorsport, was released on May 25th, 2023, to great anticipation. But, with the game’s unique requirement of a mid-generation hardware update, the question on many Xbox One owners’ minds is: Can you play the new Forza Motorsport on Xbox One? The answer, as it turns out, is complicated.
The Prerequisites: Hardware Upgrades Required
Microsoft’s Forza Motorsport game engine, built on DirectX Raytracing (DXR), and its impressive graphics capabilities are designed to take advantage of the enhanced hardware features of the latest Xbox consoles. However, the game also includes several new features that can only be enjoyed on more powerful hardware.
To fully experience the new Forza Motorsport, you’ll need to meet certain minimum system requirements:
| Hardware Requirement |
|---|
| Xbox One S or newer (Xbox One X is recommended) |
| At least 16 GB of available storage space |
What does this mean for Xbox One users?
If you have an Xbox One or Xbox One S, you won’t be able to play the game in its optimal form, with 4K resolution and Ray Tracing. The game will still be playable, but you’ll need to sacrifice some graphics quality, with a reduced resolution and a few compromises on visual settings.
If you have an Xbox One X, things get slightly better. While you won’t be able to experience the full-fledged, visually stunning version of the game, the extra power will help to optimize performance and visuals, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.
Workaround for Xbox One Owners: Cloud Streaming
For Xbox One owners without a compatible device, Microsoft offers a cloud streaming solution. With Xbox Cloud Gaming, you can play Forza Motorsport through your cloud gaming subscription, using Microsoft’s data centers to stream the game directly to your Xbox One or other supported devices. This means you’ll still be able to enjoy the game, albeit with slightly reduced graphics quality and potential lag.
What does this mean for gamers?
Gamers expecting to jump into the latest Forza Motorsport game without any complications will be disappointed by the hardware requirements. While the cloud streaming solution offers a compromise, it may not provide the best experience. The exclusivity to the new Xbox generation creates a sense of segregation among gamers, forcing some to opt out of playing the game at its best.
Consequences and Considerations
The requirements for the new Forza Motorsport game have several implications:
• Widened hardware divide: The gap between the latest and previous generation consoles has become even more significant, highlighting the importance of maintaining a minimum hardware standard for certain titles.
• Impact on cross-play: Cloud gaming may facilitate some cross-play, but it’s unlikely to be a seamless experience, with potential limitations on performance, matchmaking, and lag.
• Game selection and exclusivity: As game development continues to advance, the likelihood of certain titles becoming exclusive to specific hardware will increase, influencing gaming communities and driving console adoption decisions.
Conclusion: A Bittersweet Development
In conclusion, while Forza Motorsport is a thrilling addition to the franchise, its complex hardware requirements present a mixed bag for gamers. On one hand, the game offers unparalleled graphics and features, but on the other hand, its exclusivity to mid-generation hardware limits its availability on older consoles.
For now, Xbox One owners will need to opt for cloud streaming or compromise on their visual experience. It’s essential for Microsoft to consider these factors in future game development, ensuring that players are not left behind due to outdated hardware.
Until then, enthusiasts and casual players alike will continue to wait and observe the future of Forza and the console wars.