Forza Motorsport vs Horizon: Understanding the Key Differences

Microsoft recently released Forza Motorsport, the latest addition to Xbox's popular racing game series. Following the release of Forza Horizon 5 in November 2021, many casual gamers were drawn to the franchise, and now they are curious about the newest version of Forza. Despite sharing the same name, Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon are two distinct games with different target audiences. Thus, what sets each Forza version apart?

In this article, we will explore the differences between Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon. We will delve into their varying gameplay mechanics, target demographics, and development studios. By the end of this article, readers will have a better understanding of the two games and which one best suits their preferences.

Forza Motorsport – The „Simcade“ Racing Game

Forza Motorsport

Forza Motorsport is a popular racing game that has been dubbed a „Simcade“ by racing game enthusiasts. The term Simcade refers to a racing game that combines features of both a simulator and an arcade racer to create a unique gameplay experience. In the Forza Motorsport series, players can expect a game that emulates real-world racing while still being easy to learn.

One of the defining features of a Simcade is its low-skill floor and high-skill ceiling. This means that anyone, from casual racing game fans to hardcore motorsport enthusiasts, can enjoy the game in their own way. Forza Motorsport is designed to cater to a wide range of players, making it a popular choice for those looking for a racing game that is both accessible and challenging.

Arcade Racing, Forza-Style

Forza Horizon

Forza Horizon is an arcade-style racing game that caters to casual gamers and light-hearted racing game fans. Unlike Forza Motorsport, it has fewer rules and restrictions on racing and driving. It's not designed to be realistic, but it does use the traditional Forza car handling model, which can feel like real-world driving under the right circumstances. Players have the freedom to customize how this works, and the game's physics put any case for realism to rest. Some consider it a Simcade because it combines simulation and arcade elements. The game's focus is on exploration, fun, and freedom, with open-world environments based on real-life locations. It's a different experience from Motorsport, but one that many players find enjoyable and entertaining.

Less Pixels

Despite being released two years after Forza Horizon 5, Forza Motorsport has been criticized for its graphics. Many players consider Forza Horizon 5 to be the prettier game of the two. Even though Forza Motorsport is not an open-world game, players are pointing fingers at the fact that it should consume fewer resources than Horizon. The game has been plagued by a poor launch, with issues around performance and visual fidelity. Forza Motorsport developers have issued a statement claiming they're going to fix the game through a series of updates, the first of which is already live. It remains to be seen how much of an improvement the updates will bring to the game's graphics.

Brothers from different mothers

One of the most significant differences between Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon is their developers. Forza Motorsport is developed by Turn10, an American studio, while Forza Horizon is developed by Playground Games, a British studio. Both studios have distinct approaches to game development, which is evident in their respective series.

Although Turn10 and Playground Games collaborated on the first Forza Horizon game, they have since worked on their own series. However, they still share certain resources, such as car models and AI difficulty, despite the differences between the two games. This collaboration between the studios ensures that both Forza games maintain their high level of quality and attention to detail.

Forza Version Difference: Open-World vs Fixed

Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon are two popular racing game series that have a significant difference in their gameplay experience. Forza Horizon is an open-world series that takes place in scaled-down versions of real-world locations. In contrast, Forza Motorsport has a fixed set of race tracks, some of which are real-world tracks while others are fictional. This difference in level-design and experience delivery makes the Forza Horizon series more focused on exploration and freedom, while Forza Motorsport is more focused on track-based racing.

Forza Version Difference: Difficulty, Gameplay Experience

Forza Motorsport is widely considered to be a more challenging game than Forza Horizon. However, the difficulty level of both games can vary depending on the target audience. Races in both games offer different experiences. Forza Motorsport races have fuel loads, pit stops, qualifying sessions, and penalties, making it a more tactical game. On the other hand, Forza Horizon races are more straightforward and are simply point-to-point races. While there are no strict rules in Forza Horizon races, except no ramming, Forza Motorsport has plenty of rules that players must follow.

Interestingly, players still indulge in ramming other players in Forza Motorsport races. Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon 5 are both available on Xbox Game Pass, allowing players to try them out before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Forza games are split screen?

Several Forza games have split-screen functionality, including Forza Motorsport 7, Forza Horizon 4, and Forza Motorsport 6. Players can play split-screen with a friend on one console, with one player driving and the other navigating.

What is the difference between Forza Horizon 4 and Forza Motorsport 7?

The primary difference between Forza Horizon 4 and Forza Motorsport 7 is their gameplay style. Forza Horizon 4 is an open-world racing game that takes place in a fictionalized version of the United Kingdom, while Forza Motorsport 7 is a more traditional racing simulator that features real-world tracks and vehicles. Additionally, Forza Horizon 4 has a more relaxed and casual gameplay style, while Forza Motorsport 7 is geared towards serious racing enthusiasts.

Does Forza Horizon have the same physics as Forza Motorsport?

No, Forza Horizon does not have the same physics as Forza Motorsport. Forza Motorsport is a more realistic racing simulator with a greater emphasis on accurate physics and handling, while Forza Horizon is more focused on fun and accessibility. Forza Horizon has more forgiving physics and handling, making it easier for players to drift and perform stunts.

Is Forza Motorsport open world?

No, Forza Motorsport is not an open-world racing game. It features real-world tracks and courses that are designed to simulate real-life racing conditions. Forza Motorsport is a more traditional racing simulator that focuses on accurate physics and handling, rather than open-world exploration.

Forza Horizon vs Need for Speed?

Forza Horizon and Need for Speed are both popular racing game franchises, but they have different gameplay styles. Forza Horizon is an open-world racing game that emphasizes exploration, while Need for Speed is a more story-driven racing game with a greater emphasis on high-speed chases and police pursuits. Additionally, Forza Horizon has a more relaxed and casual gameplay style, while Need for Speed is geared towards serious racing enthusiasts.

Are all Forza games the same?

No, all Forza games are not the same. The Forza franchise includes several different games, each with its own unique gameplay style and features. Forza Motorsport is a more traditional racing simulator, while Forza Horizon is an open-world racing game with a greater emphasis on exploration and fun. Additionally, there are several other Forza games, such as Forza Street and Forza Motorsport 6: Apex, each with their own unique features and gameplay styles.