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Forza Horizon 3

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Forza Horizon 3
Item: Forza Horizon 3
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2016

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Crime, Open World, Simulation, Vehicular, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing, First Person Perspective

AvailableSep 23, 2016

PlatformPC, Xbox One

DeveloperPlayground Games

Overview

You’re in charge of the Horizon Festival. Customize everything, hire and fire your friends, and explore Australia in over 350 of the world’s greatest cars. Make your Horizon the ultimate celebration of cars, music, and freedom of the open road. How you get there is up to you.

Elsewhere

8.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

22%

Mixed (50-79)

78%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The positive aspects of the Story in Forza Horizon 3, as highlighted by critics such as EGM and M3, include the unique concept of the player taking on the role of a festival organizer. This fresh approach replaces the traditional career mode and adds a festive and engaging element to the gameplay experience. Critics like NZGamer appreciate how this new story mechanic adds depth to the gameplay by tasking players with finding race locations to unlock and upgrade festival sites. Additionally, Vandal praises the player's role as a festival boss, aiming to gain fans by expanding festivals and unlocking new challenges, which adds a sense of progression and accomplishment to the narrative. On the other hand, the negative aspects of the Story in Forza Horizon 3, as noted by critics such as GameCrate and Trusted Reviews, revolve around the lack of a substantial narrative. GameCrate mentions that there is essentially no story in the game, with the main focus being on driving, exploring, and doing tricks. Trusted Reviews echoes this sentiment by stating that the racing festival storyline serves as a mere backdrop for gameplay mechanics, rather than being a central element. Hardcore Gamer also points out that while the open world is impressive, the story itself is described as generic and not award-winning. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Story in Forza Horizon 3, while not a standout feature, adds an enjoyable layer to the gameplay experience. Critics like Metro GameCentral appreciate the festival motif and the player's role in expanding the festival's scope, providing a sense of purpose and progression. While some critics highlight the lack of a deep or compelling narrative, the majority acknowledge that the unique concept of being a festival organizer adds a fun and engaging twist to the traditional racing game formula. The general sentiment is that while the story may not be the main focus, it contributes positively to the overall immersive and entertaining nature of the game.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics praise Forza Horizon 3 for its innovative festival organizer concept, adding depth and engagement to gameplay. Some critics note the lack of a strong narrative, with the story serving more as a backdrop. Overall, the majority agree that the festival motif enhances the overall experience, despite not being a standout feature.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

96%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The majority of critics have praised the gameplay of Forza Horizon 3, highlighting various positive aspects of the game. CGMagazine commends the open-world racing experience, emphasizing the plethora of activities available to keep players engaged. Xbox Achievements and Gameplanet both appreciate the balance between realism and accessibility in the handling of the cars, making the driving experience enjoyable for players of different skill levels. Additionally, Gamer.nl and Game Over Online commend the extensive customization options and diverse range of activities, from thrilling races to custom event creation, contributing to a rich and engaging gameplay experience. On the flip side, some critics did point out certain drawbacks in the gameplay of Forza Horizon 3. Wccftech mentions that player-created race options were considered dull and repetitive, detracting from the overall experience. We Got This Covered notes that the gameplay can start to feel repetitive over time, potentially impacting long-term engagement. Furthermore, PCWorld highlights that the hands-off approach in customization may limit experimentation with different vehicles, potentially restricting player creativity and variety in gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the gameplay of Forza Horizon 3. Critics such as Guardian and Trusted Reviews appreciate the balance between casual and skilled driving, offering a rewarding and engaging experience for players. Game Informer and GameCrate highlight the variety of activities, customization options, and unconventional racing experiences as standout features that contribute to the game's appeal. The blend of arcade and simulation gameplay, extensive customization options, diverse range of activities, and overall fun and rewarding driving experience have resonated well with the majority of critics, making Forza Horizon 3 a highly recommended title for fans of racing games.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics praise Forza Horizon 3 for its engaging open-world racing experience, realistic yet accessible car handling, extensive customization options, and diverse activities. Some drawbacks include repetitive player-created races and limited vehicle customization. Overall, critics overwhelmingly recommend the game for its rewarding blend of arcade and simulation gameplay, making it a top choice for racing game fans.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

96%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of the critics unanimously praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Forza Horizon 3, highlighting various positive aspects. Attack of the Fanboy commended the game for its stunning visuals, especially in 4K resolution on PC. PCWorld set a new benchmark for the series with its visually stunning open-world environment in Australia, featuring diverse biomes and natural monuments. Multiplayer.it and PC Games appreciated the wide range of graphical options for high-end systems, while PCGamesN and Areajugones emphasized the meticulous detail in visuals and sound design, including realistic weather effects and stunning skyboxes. However, some critics did mention a few negatives regarding the game's graphics. We Got This Covered pointed out technical performance issues like pop-in, shadowing problems, and frame rate dips on Xbox One. VideoGamer acknowledged minor details and shadow pop-in, though overall considered the visuals impressive. Giant Bomb highlighted that while the PC version has the potential to look great, meeting the recommended specs for stable performance at 60 frames-per-second can be challenging. Overall, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Forza Horizon 3. Critics like Gameplanet and GameCrate described the game as one of the best looking console games available, with stunning graphical fidelity and breathtaking landscapes. Guardian praised the visuals as state-of-the-art, especially for players with 4K TVs and HDR support. TheSixthAxis considered it one of the best looking Xbox One games yet, with beautiful visuals and a lush open-world environment. The diverse and beautifully designed world of Australia, attention to detail in cars and environments, and the dynamic weather effects were commonly highlighted as standout features, making Forza Horizon 3 a visually captivating and immersive racing experience according to the majority of critics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics rave about Forza Horizon 3's stunning graphics and visual design, praising its 4K resolution visuals on PC and diverse Australian landscapes. While some note technical issues like pop-in and frame rate dips on Xbox One, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Critics hail it as one of the best looking console games with breathtaking visuals, realistic weather effects, and immersive environments, making it a must-play for racing fans seeking a visually captivating experience.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

65%

Mixed (50-79)

35%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Forza Horizon 3 are overwhelmingly positive. Critics such as PC Games and PCGamesN praise the immersive experience created by the sound effects and detailed sound design, including the realistic engine sounds and brake disc effects. Wccftech and Areajugones highlight the dynamic soundtrack and vast selection of radio stations, contributing to the festival atmosphere and overall gameplay experience. Additionally, Game Over Online and Vandal commend the diverse and excellent soundtrack, as well as the inclusion of Groove Music, enhancing the audio experience for players. On the other hand, some critics express minor concerns or mixed opinions about the sound design and music of Forza Horizon 3. EGM notes that the Groove Music feature only works about half the time, which could be frustrating for players looking to customize their music experience. TheSixthAxis mentions that the inclusion of Microsoft's Groove streaming service can detract from the atmosphere and escapism of the game, suggesting a preference for a more traditional music integration approach. Overall, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Sound Design and Music of Forza Horizon 3. The majority of reviewers appreciate the attention to detail in sound effects, the diverse and engaging soundtrack, and the integration of Groove Music for a personalized audio experience. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and Xbox Achievements highlight the immersive atmosphere created by the realistic car sounds and the variety of music options available in the game. Despite some minor criticisms, the overall sentiment is that the sound design and music significantly enhance the overall gameplay experience in Forza Horizon 3, contributing to its success and enjoyment among players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics rave about Forza Horizon 3's sound design and music, praising its immersive experience, realistic engine sounds, and dynamic soundtrack. While some express minor concerns like Groove Music glitches, the general consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Overall, the game's attention to detail and diverse soundtrack enhance the gameplay experience, making it a hit among players.

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

30%

Mixed (50-79)

70%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the technical performance of Forza Horizon 3 on PC, several critics highlighted both positive and negative aspects. Positive aspects include the game offering a playable experience with some settings adjustments, as mentioned by PCWorld. Additionally, Multiplayer.it praised the detailed visuals on the PC version. However, there were also notable negatives mentioned by critics such as Wccftech and Giant Bomb, who reported performance issues, crashes, and the need for patches to improve stability. Attack of the Fanboy also noted varying frame rates and the impact of different GPU configurations on the game's performance. Moving on to the technical performance on Xbox One, the consensus among critics was generally positive. Critics like Gamer.nl and GameOver.gr praised the smooth performance and engaging experiences on the console. Furthermore, ICXM described the game as technically perfect with no major flaws, while NZGamer mentioned the implementation of lag prevention measures for online races. However, there were some negative aspects highlighted by critics such as We Got This Covered, who pointed out technical issues like pop-in, shadowing problems, and frame rate dips, making the game feel like a sub-par console port. Hardcore Gamer also mentioned technical issues like crashes and freezes, albeit nothing game-breaking. Overall, the opinions of the critics regarding the technical performance of Forza Horizon 3 vary across platforms. While the PC version faced challenges with performance issues and crashes, the Xbox One version generally received positive feedback for its smooth performance and seamless multiplayer experience. Critics like Trusted Reviews and VideoGamer highlighted the stable performance on Xbox One, while acknowledging minor issues like frame drops. The consensus suggests that while the game may have some technical hiccups on PC, it delivers a more consistent and enjoyable experience on Xbox One, with some minor technical issues reported.

TL;DR

technical performance

Forza Horizon 3 on PC had mixed reviews, with critics mentioning performance issues and crashes despite some positive aspects. On Xbox One, critics generally praised the smooth performance and engaging experiences, though some mentioned technical issues like frame rate drops. Overall, PC version had challenges, while Xbox One version offered a more consistent and enjoyable experience with minor technical issues.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

93%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The majority of critics unanimously praised the replay value of Forza Horizon 3, highlighting its extensive content and diverse gameplay elements that offer hours of entertainment. PC Games commended the game for being packed with races, challenges, and collectibles, providing a plethora of activities for players to engage with. PCGamesN echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the vast amount of content, customization options, and engaging gameplay frameworks that contribute to a rewarding replay experience. Wccftech also lauded the game for its wide range of activities, cars, and upgrades, ensuring long-term enjoyment for players. Additionally, Game Over Online appreciated the constant stream of rewards and the ability to join other players for added fun, further enhancing the replay value. On the flip side, some critics mentioned potential downsides to the replay value of Forza Horizon 3. PCWorld noted that unlocking all activities could feel like a grind in the later stages, which may deter some players from fully experiencing all the content the game has to offer. Furthermore, Cheat Code Central highlighted that while there is a lot to do in the game, the reviewer did not specify any major drawbacks or limitations to the replayability factor. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the replay value of Forza Horizon 3. Critics such as Gameplanet and TheSixthAxis emphasized the game's near-endless range of events, challenges, and customization options that keep players engaged for extended periods. With a vast open world to explore, a variety of racing experiences, and seamless online integration, the game offers a high level of replayability that appeals to both solo and multiplayer enthusiasts. Despite some minor concerns about potential grind in unlocking activities, the overall sentiment is that Forza Horizon 3 excels in providing a rich and engaging experience that keeps players coming back for more, solidifying its reputation as a standout title in the racing genre.

TL;DR

replay value

Forza Horizon 3 earns high praise for its extensive content and diverse gameplay elements, offering hours of entertainment with races, challenges, and collectibles. Critics commend the vast amount of content, customization options, and engaging gameplay that contribute to a rewarding replay experience. While some mention potential grind in unlocking activities, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the game's near-endless range of events, challenges, and customization options that keep players engaged. Overall, Forza Horizon 3 stands out as a standout title in the racing genre with high replay value.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

97%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the opinions of the various critics on Forza Horizon 3, it is evident that the game received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the majority of reviewers. Many critics praised the game for its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and immersive driving experience. Critics like Wccftech and Game Informer lauded Forza Horizon 3 as possibly the best racing game of this generation, with outstanding open-world gameplay and a perfect balance of arcade spectacle and simulation authenticity. The game's high customization options, diverse content, and the ability to play with friends were highlighted by reviewers like XGN and Game Over Online, making it a must-play for racing enthusiasts. Additionally, the game was commended for its top-notch races, cars, music, and moments, as noted by PCWorld, further solidifying its position as a top-tier racing title. On the other hand, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks of Forza Horizon 3. Issues such as technical performance problems, repetitive player-created race options, and minor annoyances in the menu system were mentioned by reviewers like We Got This Covered and Hardcore Gamer. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment was that the positives of the game far outweighed the negatives. Critics like CGMagazine and TheSixthAxis noted that while the game may feel predictable compared to its predecessors, it still offers a fun and enjoyable racing experience, especially for newcomers to the series. Additionally, some critics highlighted specific hardware requirements for the PC version, with Attack of the Fanboy cautioning that players with older graphics cards or CPUs may face challenges in fully experiencing the game's visual splendor. Overall, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive, with Forza Horizon 3 being regarded as a standout racing title that sets a new standard in the genre. The game was praised for its exceptional arcade racing experience, addictive gameplay, stunning graphics, high-quality soundtracks, and innovative features. Critics like GameCrate and Gameplanet emphasized the game's must-have status for both casual and enthusiast racers, while Worth Playing and Game Informer awarded it high scores, reflecting the widespread acclaim it received. The majority of reviewers agreed that Forza Horizon 3 excelled in delivering an immersive and enjoyable racing experience, solidifying its position as one of the best racing games of its time.

TL;DR

Critics overwhelmingly praised Forza Horizon 3 for its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and immersive driving experience, with some even calling it the best racing game of its generation. While some critics highlighted technical issues and repetitive gameplay, the game's high customization, diverse content, and fun racing experience outweighed the negatives. Overall, Forza Horizon 3 was lauded for setting a new standard in the racing genre with exceptional features and must-have status for racing enthusiasts.

MONSTER

Reviews

171 reviews found

100

Gaming Age

Xbox One

Sep 20, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that Forza Horizon 3 is an A+ game top to bottom and one of the best games you'll play all year.

100

Windows Central

Xbox One

Sep 20, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Forza Horizon 3 is considered one of the finest games on the Xbox One, offering a visually stunning experience, engaging gameplay, excellent sound design, and high replay value.

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100

USgamer

Xbox One

Sep 20, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Forza Horizon 3 surpasses its predecessor in every aspect, offering a standout experience in the racing genre.

100

Sporting News

Xbox One

Sep 20, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that it is difficult to imagine how Forza Horizon 3 could have been any better and that it is a worthwhile experience for both car aficionados and those who are not.

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100

GameOver.gr

Xbox One

Oct 21, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Forza Horizon 3 delivers an exceptional arcade racing experience with addictive gameplay, stunning graphics, high-quality soundtracks, and innovative features. It sets a new standard in technology and visuals, making it a must-have for racing game enthusiasts.

100

ICXM

Xbox One

Sep 20, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Forza Horizon 3 is described as a masterpiece that offers an epic driving experience in an open world environment, with refined visuals and new features that make it uniquely better than other games in the genre.

100

Guardian

Xbox One

Sep 30, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises Forza Horizon 3 as a game that offers sheer scenic pleasure, with beautiful visuals and a fun gameplay experience. It is described as a ridiculous playground with some of the best cars in the world.

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100

Trusted Reviews

Xbox One

Sep 20, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is described as a fun, thrilling, and satisfying driving experience that captures the childish glee of playing with toy cars. The reviewer recommends it as an upgrade from Forza Horizon 2.

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100

ZTGD

Xbox One

Sep 20, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Forza Horizon 3 is one of the best racing games the reviewer has ever played and recommends it to anyone interested in racing games.

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100

Telegraph

Xbox One

Sep 23, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is a feast of driving that aims to satisfy different vehicular desires.

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