"Drive into Scotland’s Changing Seasons Before It’s Gone!"
Sum-Up
In-depth analysis further down.
🟩 Pros
🟥 Cons
• Stunning, dynamic seasons bring Scotland to life.
• Vast selection of cars with extensive customization options.
• Seamless mix of arcade fun and realistic driving mechanics.
• Unique and varied race types catering to all driving styles.
• Great crossover events like the Halo mission.
• Drifting zones and some challenges are frustratingly difficult.
• Seasonal nature requires consistent play to unlock everything.
• Some additional content locked behind DLC.
🟨 Bugs & Issues
🔧 Specs
⚙️ Settings & FPS
No performance issues, but the PC matchmaking issue was still present. Some matches would last a tremendous amount of time to load, but with patient, you'll eventually get to the race. I've encountered this two times.
• CPU: i7-12700K
• RAM: 32GB DDR4
• GPU: RTX 3080 10GB
• Storage: SSD
• Resolution: 1440p
Settings: Ultra
FPS: 60+ Stable
🌌 Content & Replay Value
The game’s changing seasons, diverse race types, and frequent events keep the experience fresh, even after many hours. DLCs like the LEGO and Fortune Island expansions add extra content, but they aren’t essential for enjoying the base game.
💵 Is it worth buying?
Absolutely. With the game being delisted soon, it’s a must-buy for racing fans. The depth of content and high-quality gameplay easily justify the price, especially if you grab it before it disappears.
🎮 Steam Deck Compatibility
Runs smoothly on the Steam Deck, even on Low-Medium settings. Great for playing on the go without any significant compromises in performance or visuals.
🧾 Verdict: Excellent Rating Chart Here
Forza Horizon 4 remains a top-tier racing game that masterfully blends arcade thrills with realistic elements. The dynamic seasons, varied car selection, and engaging world make it a must-play before it gets delisted.
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In-depth
⚔️ Gameplay & Exploration:
Forza Horizon 4 is set in a beautifully detailed, fictionalized version of Scotland, centered around Edinburgh. The open-world map offers a mix of scenic landscapes, from bustling city streets to serene coastal roads and rolling countryside. The standout feature is the dynamic seasons, which change weekly, affecting both the visuals and gameplay. Whether you’re driving through autumn’s golden forests or tackling icy winter roads, the seasons keep the world feeling fresh and varied.
The game’s wide array of race types—from traditional road races to off-road events—ensures there’s something for every driving style. The diversity encourages you to experiment with different vehicles, whether you prefer high-speed asphalt races or rugged cross-country adventures. It’s this variety that keeps the game engaging over time, always presenting new challenges and experiences.
One memorable feature is the crossover mission with Halo, where you get to drive the Warthog as Master Chief. The mission is a love letter to Halo fans, complete with authentic sound effects, familiar settings, and Covenant ships flying overhead. It’s these unique events that make Forza Horizon 4 more than just a racing game, offering moments that blend gaming worlds in a creative way.
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3292612311
🏆 Completion:
The game offers extensive content for completionists. From seasonal events to rare car unlocks, there’s always something to strive for. The Level 10 races for each type are among the more difficult challenges, especially for those seeking mastery. Additionally, getting 3 stars in drifting zones and other advanced challenges can be tough, demanding precise control and skill. For collectors, the rotating seasons mean you need to stay consistent to grab certain cars and rewards. Additionally, some achievements might require clever workarounds or rolling back your system date if you miss them, so plan accordingly.
Hours to fully complete the game: 170+ (with all expansions)
Achievements: 178/178 (base game + DLC)
Playthroughs: Ongoing for seasonal events
Difficulty: 6/10
Steam Hunter Points: ✪ 11,699
🏞 Visuals & Presentation:
The visuals in Forza Horizon 4 are stunning, particularly with the changing seasons that bring vibrant colors and different atmospheric effects. Scotland’s landscapes are lovingly recreated with impressive attention to detail. Whether you’re cruising through misty highlands or racing past the iconic landmarks of Edinburgh, the world feels alive and inviting.
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3276114694
🔊 Sound & Atmosphere:
The sound design excels in both the roar of engines and the ambient world sounds. The dynamic soundtrack offers a mix of genres, catering to different tastes. The radio stations provide a lively atmosphere, and the voiceovers do a great job of guiding you through events and missions without overstaying their welcome.
📖 Story & Writing:
While the game doesn’t have a deep narrative, the Horizon Festival setup and various missions offer enough context to keep things engaging. The side stories, like the stunt missions and the showcase events, add flavor to the experience. Though the plot is simple—drive, race, and become the best—the game’s character comes more from the world and how you interact with it.
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3276115215
⭕️ Verdict:
Forza Horizon 4 is a masterclass in open-world racing, offering a mix of exploration, competition, and laid-back fun. The unique Scottish setting and seasonal changes keep the game dynamic and visually stunning. While there are no traditional final boss races, the Level 10 events for each racing category provide a fitting challenge for seasoned players. Whether you’re revisiting it or diving in for the first time, this is a racing experience that shouldn’t be missed before it’s delisted.