7) Forza Horizon
Slowly but surely, Forza nudged Gran Turismo off its perch as the definitive console racing game. There’s no doubt that Gran Turismo still provides a superbly detailed racing simulation experience, but Forza manages to achieve elements of that while simultaneously balancing it with a more accessible and arcadey gameplay. Forza Horizon takes this to the next level, marrying it to gorgeous open world environments and racing challenge modes that are incredibly fun to play. It’s now forged its own new genre, endearing itself to both hardcore and casual racing fans.
Forza Horizon 3 is the series latest and greatest, offering even more detailed customization and a deeper career mode. The vehicles all handle superbly with physics that feel convincing but aren’t punishingly realistic. It also happens to be one of the prettiest games on Xbox One, taking players on a journey across Australia’s beautiful vistas and stunning coastline.
Hardcore racing fans loyal to the franchise might consider the mainline series still the definitive version, but Horizon has brought racing to new audiences of people thanks to its less competitive open world formula.Â
