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Forza Horizon 4

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Forza Horizon 4
Item: Forza Horizon 4
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2018

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

AvailableSep 28, 2018

PlatformPC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X

DeveloperPlayground Games

Overview

Dynamic seasons change everything at the world’s greatest automotive festival. Go it alone or team up with others to explore beautiful and historic Britain in a shared open world. Collect, modify and drive over 450 cars. Race, stunt, create and explore – choose your own path to become a Horizon Superstar.

Elsewhere

8.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Forza Horizon 4 dazzles with a vibrant British festival setting and engaging "Horizon Stories," but critics agree the narrative falls flat, described as minimal and lacking depth. Gameplay takes precedence over a cohesive story, leaving many elements feeling rushed and forgettable. While enjoyable, the game misses the mark on delivering a compelling narrative experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

30%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the story of Forza Horizon 4 reveal some positive aspects that enhance the overall gaming experience. Many reviewers, such as GameStar and LevelUp, highlight the vibrant setting of the Horizon Festival in Britain, where players engage in a variety of racing challenges. Critics like Everyeye.it appreciate the introduction of "Horizon Stories," which provide a greater narrative weight than previous installments, featuring small cut-scenes and thematic challenges. Additionally, Stevivor notes that the colorful narrative and various Forza stories contribute positively to the overall experience, suggesting that while the story may not be central, it adds a layer of engagement for players. Conversely, a significant number of critics express disappointment regarding the lack of a substantial overarching narrative. App Trigger and New Game Network point out that the game prioritizes gameplay and player experience over a cohesive story, with App Trigger stating that it lacks a significant overarching story. Game Debate echoes this sentiment, describing the storyline as mere "window dressing" for the racing events. Critics like Critical Hit and GameCritics also mention that the narrative is thin and often forgettable, with some characters and storylines lacking depth. This collective sentiment indicates that while there are narrative elements present, they often feel rushed or simplistic, failing to provide a compelling story experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Forza Horizon 4 prioritizes gameplay and racing mechanics over a deep narrative. While some elements, such as the seasonal changes and festival premise, provide context for the racing experience, the story itself is often described as minimal or lacking in substance. Critics like Wccftech and TheSixthAxis encapsulate this sentiment by noting that the focus remains on racing rather than a profound narrative. Despite some positive remarks about the engaging setting and smaller narrative elements, the overarching opinion is that the game could benefit from a more robust story to complement its gameplay.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Forza Horizon 4 impresses critics with its engaging mix of realistic driving and arcade fun, enhanced by dynamic seasons and extensive customization. While praised for its rich gameplay and variety, some note repetitive structures and cumbersome vehicle upgrades. Overall, it stands out as a top-tier racing game appealing to both casual and hardcore fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Forza Horizon 4 has garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, who praise its engaging and dynamic driving experience. Many reviewers, such as The Sydney Morning Herald and IGN Spain, highlight the successful blend of realistic driving mechanics with arcade elements, making the game accessible to a wide audience. The introduction of seasonal changes, as noted by AusGamers and The Games Machine, adds depth and variety to the racing experience, ensuring that players encounter different challenges and driving conditions. Furthermore, the extensive customization options and a plethora of events and activities, as emphasized by Game Rant and Digital Trends, contribute to a rich and rewarding gameplay experience that keeps players engaged. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks. A few reviews, including those from Giant Bomb and Jeuxvideo.com, mention that aspects of the gameplay can feel repetitive over time, particularly regarding the structure of certain events. Additionally, while the game offers a wide variety of vehicles and racing types, some critics, such as App Trigger and GamingTrend, have noted that upgrading or changing cars can sometimes be cumbersome, potentially detracting from the overall experience. This sentiment suggests that while the gameplay is enjoyable, there are moments where it could benefit from further refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Forza Horizon 4 delivers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, with its innovative features and engaging mechanics standing out as its strongest aspects. Reviewers like God is a Geek and Power Unlimited commend the game for its balance between arcade fun and realistic driving physics, making it appealing to both casual and hardcore racing fans. The dynamic open-world design, coupled with the seasonal changes and various racing disciplines, has left a significant positive impression on the majority of critics, solidifying Forza Horizon 4 as a noteworthy entry in the racing genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Forza Horizon 4 is hailed as a graphical masterpiece, with critics praising its breathtaking visuals, dynamic weather, and attention to detail. While some minor technical flaws exist, the game is widely regarded as a benchmark for visual excellence in racing games, showcasing the Xbox One's capabilities and delivering an immersive experience that captivates players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Forza Horizon 4 have been overwhelmingly praised by critics, many of whom describe it as a masterpiece in the realm of video games. Reviewers such as Gaming Age and Digital Trends highlight the breathtaking visuals, with an emphasis on the beautifully rendered world that changes with the seasons. The dynamic weather system is frequently noted as a significant enhancement to the visual experience, with critics like Guardian and IGN Italia expressing admiration for how it alters the landscape and driving conditions. The attention to detail in car modeling and the vibrant color palette, as mentioned by Xbox Achievements and Game Informer, further contribute to the game's stunning aesthetic, making it a visual showcase for the Xbox One. However, not all reviews are uniformly positive. Some critics, such as Video Chums, pointed out minor technical issues like polygonal messes and occasional pop-in, which detract from the otherwise impressive visuals. While the majority of reviewers focused on the game's strengths, a few, like Worth Playing, mentioned minor flaws in shadow transitions that could be improved. These criticisms, while present, appear to be overshadowed by the overall acclaim for the game's graphical fidelity and design. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Forza Horizon 4 sets a new standard for visual excellence in racing games. The majority of reviewers, including FANDOM and Twinfinite, consider it one of the best-looking video games ever made, praising its detailed environments and the seamless integration of seasonal changes. The game not only showcases the graphical capabilities of the Xbox One but also delivers an immersive experience that captivates players. Despite a few minor criticisms, the overwhelming sentiment is one of admiration for the stunning visuals and the artistic design that elevates Forza Horizon 4 to a level of excellence rarely seen in the gaming industry.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Forza Horizon 4's sound design and music are widely praised for their realism and diversity, enhancing the immersive driving experience. Critics laud the engine sounds and well-curated soundtrack, while noting minor issues like audio glitches and some lackluster radio stations. Overall, the acclaim outweighs the criticisms, making the sound a key highlight of the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Forza Horizon 4 have garnered significant praise from critics, with many highlighting the game's exceptional audio quality. Reviewers such as Areajugones and Multiplayer.it emphasized the realistic engine sounds, which contribute to an immersive driving experience. The soundtrack is frequently described as diverse and well-curated, with critics like God is a Geek and Hardcore Gamer noting the variety of genres available across the in-game radio stations. The integration of environmental sounds, such as the ambience of the British countryside and the detailed audio effects during gameplay, further enhances the overall experience, as pointed out by IGN and Twinfinite. Overall, the sound design and music have been recognized as key elements that elevate the gameplay, making it more engaging and enjoyable. Despite the overall positivity, there are some criticisms regarding the sound design and music in Forza Horizon 4. LevelUp and Ragequit.gr noted that while the engine sounds are impressive, the background music lacks impact, with a few radio stations standing out while others feel less engaging. Some reviewers, like PC Invasion and Wccftech, mentioned minor issues such as audio glitches and muted engine sounds for certain vehicles, which could detract from the immersive experience. Additionally, 3DJuegos expressed a preference for the previous edition's tracklist, indicating that not all critics found the current selection equally satisfying. In summary, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority praising the sound design and music in Forza Horizon 4 as very good. The game effectively utilizes realistic engine sounds and a diverse soundtrack to enhance the driving experience, as highlighted by multiple reviewers. While there are some criticisms regarding the impact of certain music tracks and minor audio issues, these do not significantly overshadow the overall acclaim. Critics like Game Over Online and XboxAddict encapsulated this sentiment by acknowledging the impressive variety of music and immersive sound effects that contribute to the game's success.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Forza Horizon 4's voice acting receives strong praise for enhancing immersion, particularly with its engaging GPS voice and authentic British accents. Critics agree it positively impacts the gaming experience, though some localization issues in the Spanish version have been noted. Overall, while not the game's focal point for all reviewers, the voice work is deemed well-executed and a solid contributor to the game's atmosphere.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Forza Horizon 4 has garnered generally positive feedback from critics, highlighting its contribution to the overall gaming experience. LevelUp appreciates the inclusion of voice acting for the GPS system, which adds a personal touch that enhances player immersion. Similarly, BaziCenter emphasizes the effectiveness of the British accents used by the voice actors, which further enriches the game's atmosphere. Multiplayer.it echoes this sentiment, noting that the well-done voice acting positively contributes to the immersive experience of the game. Impulsegamer also supports this view by simply stating that the voice acting is good, reinforcing the positive reception among various reviewers. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting, particularly related to localization. Hobby Consolas points out that while the English voice acting is commendable, there are localization issues in the Spanish version, which could detract from the experience for non-English speaking players. Meristation mentions that while the game features English voice acting, it is not a major focus of their review, suggesting that it might not stand out as a highlight of the game. Additionally, TrueAchievements notes that while voice acting is not explicitly mentioned in their review, the amusing dialogues in Forza Stories indicate that the voice work may not be a primary concern for all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Forza Horizon 4 is a solid aspect of the game, enhancing immersion and enjoyment. While there are some localization concerns and a few reviewers feel it doesn't take center stage, the majority agree that the voice acting is well-executed and adds a layer of authenticity to the game. Critics like BaziCenter and Multiplayer.it particularly emphasize its positive impact, suggesting that the voice work, especially in its native English context, plays a significant role in elevating the gaming experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Forza Horizon 4 is lauded for its impressive technical performance on both PC and Xbox One, boasting smooth gameplay and stunning visuals, especially on the Xbox One X. However, it faces criticism for technical glitches like 'Low Streaming Bandwidth' errors on PC and crashes on Xbox, indicating that while the game excels overall, there are key areas—particularly online stability and performance on lower-end systems—that need improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Forza Horizon 4 has been largely praised across both PC and Xbox One platforms, with many critics highlighting its smooth gameplay and impressive visuals. On PC, reviewers such as App Trigger and Multiplayer.it noted that the game runs exceptionally well, achieving high frame rates even on modest hardware. Areajugones echoed this sentiment, emphasizing stable framerates and minimal graphical issues on lower-end PCs. On Xbox One, critics like BaziCenter and Eurogamer Italy remarked on the game's ability to maintain solid performance at 60 frames per second, particularly on the Xbox One X, which showcases the game's optimization and graphical fidelity. Overall, the consensus is that Forza Horizon 4 delivers a strong technical performance, with many reviewers appreciating the dynamic optimization settings available on PC. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics have pointed out notable issues that detract from the experience. On PC, GameSpace highlighted a significant 'Low Streaming Bandwidth' error that disrupts gameplay, particularly at high speeds, while LevelUp mentioned technical issues affecting online matchmaking and cooperative play. On the Xbox One, EGM reported crashes and bugs, including a recurring hitch that affects gameplay, while Multiplayer.it noted some stability issues on the standard Xbox One, with frame rate drops in certain conditions. These criticisms indicate that while the game performs well, there are still areas that require improvement, particularly in online modes and on lower-end hardware. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Forza Horizon 4 offers a commendable technical performance across both PC and Xbox One platforms, with the majority praising its smooth gameplay and visual quality. Critics like Shacknews and God is a Geek emphasized the game's strong performance, with minimal technical issues reported. However, the few negative points raised by some reviewers suggest that there is room for improvement, especially regarding online connectivity and stability on lower-end systems. Ultimately, the game stands out as a technical achievement, but addressing the highlighted concerns could elevate the experience even further.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Forza Horizon 4 is a replay value powerhouse, earning rave reviews for its dynamic seasons, diverse racing events, and seamless multiplayer experience. Critics praise its engaging challenges and customizable content, which keep players coming back for more. However, some raise concerns about the long-term appeal of locked content and minor technical glitches. Overall, it’s a thrilling racing experience that keeps players hooked, despite a few caveats.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Forza Horizon 4 is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers highlight the game's dynamic seasons, which provide a fresh and engaging experience by altering the racing conditions and available events. Critics like Guardian and Multiplayer.it emphasize the variety of racing events, limited-edition vehicles, and hidden collectibles that encourage players to return to the game frequently. The seamless multiplayer experience, as noted by TheXboxHub and GameSpew, further enhances replayability by allowing players to engage with friends in various challenges and events. Additionally, the inclusion of daily and seasonal challenges, customizable events, and the ability to earn experience and unlock new content, as pointed out by Game Informer and Gamer.no, contribute to the game's extensive replay value. Despite the strong praise, some critics express concerns regarding certain aspects of the game's replayability. EGM points out that while the seasonal content encourages repeated play, there are worries about the locked content not being compelling enough to sustain long-term interest. This sentiment is echoed by a few others who suggest that, although there is a wealth of activities available, the novelty may wear off for some players over time. Additionally, minor technical issues, such as frame rate problems mentioned by SomosXbox, could detract from the overall experience, potentially impacting how often players return to the game. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Forza Horizon 4 offers a high level of replay value, with many praising the extensive content, dynamic seasons, and engaging multiplayer features. Critics like XboxAddict and Digital Trends highlight the game's ability to keep players engaged with a plethora of activities and ongoing updates. While there are some concerns about the long-term appeal of certain locked content and minor technical issues, the majority of reviews affirm that the game provides a rich and enjoyable racing experience that encourages players to return time and again.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards Forza Horizon 4 is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising it as a masterpiece in the racing genre. Reviewers such as XboxAddict and Shacknews highlight the game’s exceptional gameplay, stunning visuals, and immersive sound quality, labeling it a must-play for racing enthusiasts. The innovative seasonal mechanic, which adds depth and variety to the gameplay, is frequently mentioned as a standout feature that keeps players engaged over time. Critics like IGN and The Sydney Morning Herald emphasize the game’s breathtaking world design and rewarding gameplay, suggesting that it sets a new standard for open-world racing games. The game is also commended for its accessibility to casual players while providing enough depth for racing aficionados, as noted by LevelUp and Hardcore Gamer. Despite the largely favorable reviews, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks that slightly mar the experience. ZTGD expressed a sense of fatigue with the game’s structure, indicating that while polished and visually stunning, it may lack the freshness that some players seek. GameSpace and EGM raised concerns about technical issues and design choices that prioritize player retention and monetization, which could detract from the overall enjoyment. Additionally, some reviews, like that of God is a Geek, mentioned minor repetitive elements in the showcase events that could lead to a sense of monotony over time. These criticisms, while valid, do not overshadow the game's many strengths. The overall consensus among critics is that Forza Horizon 4 is a significant achievement in the racing genre, with many considering it the best entry in the series and possibly one of the greatest racing games ever made. Critics like FANDOM and GamesBeat assert that it stands out not just for its gameplay and visuals but also for its ability to appeal to a wide audience, from casual players to hardcore racing fans. The game is frequently described as a benchmark for future titles, with reviewers like The Games Machine and Power Unlimited emphasizing its rich content and replayability. Overall, the majority of critics agree that Forza Horizon 4 is a must-have title that successfully combines fun, innovation, and visual excellence, solidifying its place as a masterpiece in the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

Forza Horizon 4 is hailed as a racing masterpiece, praised for its stunning visuals, exceptional gameplay, and innovative seasonal mechanics. Critics celebrate its accessibility for casual players while offering depth for hardcore fans. While some note minor issues like fatigue and technical flaws, these do not overshadow its achievements. Overall, it's regarded as a benchmark in open-world racing, solidifying its status as one of the greatest racing games ever made. A must-play!

MONSTER

Reviews

181 reviews found

100

Gamers Heroes

Xbox One

Oct 2, 2018

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

Forza Horizon 4 is highly praised and considered as close to a perfect racing game.

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100

GameSpew

Xbox One

Sep 25, 2018

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

The review concludes that Forza Horizon 4 is the best racing game available and possibly the best racing game of all time. It highly recommends the game to Xbox One owners.

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100

Generación Xbox

Xbox One

Sep 25, 2018

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

Forza Horizon 4 is deemed a masterpiece that improves upon its predecessor with innovative gameplay elements and stunning technical execution.

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100

BaziCenter

Xbox One

Oct 6, 2018

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

Forza Horizon 4 is praised as the best entry in the series and one of the finest racing games in history.

100

TrueAchievements

Xbox One

Sep 25, 2018

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

Forza Horizon 4 raises the bar for racing games with its stunning visuals, refined gameplay, and innovative seasonal changes.

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100

MondoXbox

Xbox One

Sep 25, 2018

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

Forza Horizon 4 is praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and high replayability, making it a standout title in the racing genre.

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100

Guardian

Xbox One

Oct 3, 2018

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

The reviewer describes Forza Horizon 4 as the best driving game they've ever played, praising its scenery, driving experience, and the lasting good mood it puts them in. They consider it uncomplicated and thrilling escapism.

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100

Trusted Reviews

Xbox One

Sep 25, 2018

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

The review praises Forza Horizon 4 as potentially the best racing game in terms of the amount of content and fun. It describes it as the racing game to compare the genre to.

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100

GameOver.gr

Xbox One

Oct 5, 2018

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

Overall, Forza Horizon 4 is considered a masterpiece that sets high standards for racing games, appealing to players of all ages.

100

TheXboxHub

Xbox One

Sep 27, 2018

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

Forza Horizon 4 is praised for its fantastic gameplay, stunning visuals, and changes that enhance the core experience, making it an exemplary racing game that will not disappoint fans of the series.

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