Forza Motorsport: Everything You Need to Know About the Reboot
Yes, there is a Forza Motorsport 8, though it’s officially simply titled Forza Motorsport, marking a reboot for the franchise and dropping the numerical sequence. This highly anticipated title was released on October 10, 2023, and it’s available on Xbox Series X/S and PC platforms, establishing itself as a significant player in the racing simulation genre. It’s important to note, however, that it is not available on Xbox One. This reboot signifies a new direction for the series, emphasizing realism and a live-service approach to content delivery.
What’s New in the Forza Motorsport Reboot?
The rebooted Forza Motorsport aims to deliver the most realistic racing experience to date. This has been achieved through a completely overhauled game engine, featuring refined physics and enhanced handling. The developers at Turn 10 Studios, in collaboration with Xbox Game Studios, have made significant strides to elevate the game’s realism and immersion.
Enhanced Realism and Physics
One of the core changes lies within the game’s physics engine. The updated system aims to provide a more authentic feel, accurately simulating how different car models behave under various conditions. The way each car interacts with the track, weather, and other environmental elements is much more detailed, adding a new layer of depth to the driving experience.
Car and Track Variety
At launch, players have access to 499 cars across a range of categories. This is further expanded with the inclusion of 5 cars in the VIP Membership pack, 8 cars in the Race Day car pack, and one new car each week as part of the Car Pass. There are 20 tracks available at launch, which offer varying levels of difficulty and excitement.
Live Service Model
Forza Motorsport has moved towards a live-service content model. This means players can expect regular updates post-launch, with new cars, tracks, and features being added over time. This model is designed to keep the game fresh and engaging for the foreseeable future.
Key Features and Highlights
Forza Motorsport focuses primarily on circuit racing, abandoning the open-world aspects of Forza Horizon. There is no dedicated drifting, drag racing, or “Top Gear”-inspired challenges in this title. The developers have committed to a serious racing simulation experience.
Dynamic Weather and Day/Night Cycle
Every track in Forza Motorsport supports dynamic weather conditions and a day/night cycle. These environmental factors will dynamically impact the race experience. These changes affect visibility and track conditions, requiring racers to adapt their driving strategies.
Iconic Tracks
The game features several iconic tracks, including Circuit de la Sarthe (home of the Le Mans 24 Hours), Suzuka Circuit, and a remodeled Silverstone. The Nürburgring GP circuit is available at launch, and the legendary Nordschleife will be added in Spring 2024.
Notable Exclusions
Notably, the game does not feature NASCAR racing and, surprisingly, does not include split-screen multiplayer at launch. The absence of split-screen is a significant departure from past entries and has been a point of contention for many players.
Forza Motorsport: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Forza Motorsport available on Xbox Game Pass?
Yes, Forza Motorsport is available as a day-one release on Xbox Game Pass. If you’re a subscriber, you won’t need to pay extra to access the game, whether you play on Xbox Series X/S or PC.
2. How realistic is Forza Motorsport?
Forza Motorsport aims to be the most realistic racing simulator in the series. It boasts a completely overhauled engine with refined physics to provide an authentic driving experience.
3. How many cars are in Forza Motorsport?
The base game includes 499 cars. Additional cars are available via DLC, with 5 cars in the VIP Membership pack, 8 in the Race Day car pack, and one new car each week as part of the Car Pass.
4. Does Forza Motorsport have NASCAR?
No, Forza Motorsport does not include any NASCAR racing. The game focuses solely on circuit racing.
5. How many tracks are available in Forza Motorsport?
There are 20 different tracks available to race on in the game at launch.
6. Does Forza Motorsport include the Le Mans circuit?
Yes, Forza Motorsport features the Circuit de la Sarthe, the home of the Le Mans 24 Hours race.
7. Is Forza Motorsport a reboot?
Yes, the latest Forza Motorsport is a reboot of the sub-series. It drops the numbered title, signaling a new direction for the franchise.
8. Does Forza Motorsport have split-screen multiplayer?
No, Forza Motorsport does not have split-screen multiplayer at launch, a surprising and disappointing change for many fans.
9. When was Forza Motorsport announced and released?
The reboot of Forza Motorsport was announced during Microsoft’s Xbox Games Showcase on July 23, 2020, and it was officially released on October 10, 2023.
10. Which Forza game has the most cars?
Forza Motorsport 7 has the largest set of playable vehicles of any Forza game to date, with 830 cars. However, the new Forza Motorsport includes 499 in the base game and plans to add more over time.
11. Is Forza Motorsport a sim racer?
Yes, Forza Motorsport is a sim racer with a focus on circuit racing. It’s not an open-world game like Forza Horizon, and there’s no dedicated drifting or drag racing.
12. Is the Nürburgring in Forza Motorsport?
Yes, the Nürburgring GP circuit is available at launch, and the Nordschleife is coming in Spring 2024.
13. What consoles is Forza Motorsport on?
Forza Motorsport is available exclusively on Xbox Series X/S and PC. It is not available on Xbox One.
14. How much storage does Forza Motorsport require?
Forza Motorsport requires 130 GB of storage space and an SSD is required.
15. Is Forza Motorsport more realistic than Forza Horizon?
Yes, Forza Motorsport is designed to be more realistic than Forza Horizon. Its physics and car handling are more accurate and focused on simulation. Forza Horizon is intended to be more arcade-like and accessible to a wider audience.
Conclusion
The rebooted Forza Motorsport is a significant step forward for the franchise, emphasizing realism, detailed physics, and a live-service approach to content updates. While some legacy features, like split-screen, are missing, the game delivers a sophisticated circuit racing experience on Xbox Series X/S and PC. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, Forza Motorsport is a serious contender for racing game of the year.