{"id":2359,"date":"2014-10-02T10:32:54","date_gmt":"2014-10-02T08:32:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.senses.se\/en\/review-forza-horizon-2-xbox-one\/"},"modified":"2025-05-10T22:05:08","modified_gmt":"2025-05-10T20:05:08","slug":"review-forza-horizon-2-xbox-one","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.senses.se\/en\/review-forza-horizon-2-xbox-one\/","title":{"rendered":"Review: Forza Horizon 2 (Xbox One)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Turn 10 made ambitious promises for Forza Horizon 2 during Gamescom this summer<\/a>. Does the final product deliver on that potential?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

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The Xbox One’s release in Sweden occurred some time ago. However, media coverage, advertising, and fanfare have been notably absent since the initial launch. Furthermore, sales figures for Sweden and the Nordic countries \u2013 which experienced a 10-month delay compared to the rest of the world \u2013 have not been released. Sony’s PS4 has demonstrated strong sales, globally exceeding twice the sales volume of the Xbox One. It is now crucial for Microsoft to leverage format-exclusive titles and a strategic plan to shift this trend, including increased visibility.<\/p>\n

We previously reviewed Forza Motorsport 5<\/strong> in conjunction with the release of Xbox One<\/a> in early September, and considered it the strongest launch title for the console. While not flawless, it was a compelling experience. Now, nearly two years later, Forza Horizon 2<\/strong> arrives, improving upon virtually every aspect of its predecessors and excelling in both presentation and content.<\/p>\n

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In essence, Forza Horizon 2<\/em> is a racing game featuring a collection of up to 400 vehicles, ranging from classic Golfs to high-performance machines like the MacLaren P1<\/strong>, Lamborghini Hurac\u00e1n<\/strong>, and the LaFerrari<\/strong>. The game embodies a genuine passion for cars, exhilarating driving, picturesque environments, and extensive content. This installment takes place in Southern Europe, including the French Riviera \u2013 a location perfectly suited for the Horizon’s automotive spectacle. Players can freely explore the open world, engage in on- and off-road races, participate in 1-on-1 challenges against AI or human opponents, discover hidden bonuses and cars, and compete online in races, car-tag, and special events. The overall design of Forza Horizon 2<\/em> is straightforward and intuitive, enabling players to seamlessly delve into challenges and treasure hunts while effortlessly resuming the “story” (a narrative centered around car enthusiasts traveling and competing against each other) without feeling pressured or constrained.<\/p>\n

Forza Horizon 2<\/em> caters to a wide spectrum of skill levels, offering modes ranging from beginner-friendly assistance with braking and road holding (which simplifies the experience) to advanced simulations that allow fine-tuning of parameters like weight distribution and suspension, and challenges players to drive without assists, including manual transmission. The intermediate mode will likely suit most players, providing a fun and appropriately challenging experience while maintaining a sense of control and ensuring that success hinges on driver skill.<\/p>\n

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The visual fidelity of Forza Horizon 2<\/em> is immediately striking. From the immersive intro sequence to the stunning graphics and consistent frame rate, the game is visually captivating. The dynamic lighting, including day\/night cycles, and the detailed rendering of rain on the windshield, puddles, and vehicle surfaces are particularly impressive. The cockpit perspective is among the best in its class.<\/p>\n

The audio design is equally impressive. The engine sounds are authentic, accurately replicating the characteristics of Ferraris and V8s. A high-quality sound system is recommended to fully appreciate the audio experience. The radio stations, which unlock progressively, offer a variety of genres, including rock, classical, and house\/dubstep. Players can also disable the music entirely. The voice acting is well-executed, and the GPS provides clear, concise instructions.<\/p>\n

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The exceptional presentation is complemented by precise and responsive controls, allowing players to master the nuances of each vehicle and adapt to different settings. The game empowers players to fine-tune every aspect of the driving experience or rely on assists. The “Driveatar” system, introduced in previous Forza titles, populates the game world with AI-driven avatars that emulate the driving styles of real players. This creates a compelling experience when competing against friends, even when they are offline. When not actively playing, the player’s Driveatar participates in races, earning CR (the in-game currency) which can be used to purchase new vehicles, upgrades, and other items.<\/p>\n

Beyond its technical achievements, Forza Horizon 2<\/em> excels at engaging and retaining players by rewarding virtually every action. This will appeal to both statisticians and detail-oriented players. While winning races is desirable, players can earn even more by demonstrating skill, driving cleanly, and avoiding excessive collisions. Forza Horizon 2<\/em> achieves a balance between arcade-style racing and simulation, avoiding the extremes of Burnout<\/em> and iRacing<\/em>. Players earn achievements, currency, and XP for stylish overtakes, drifts, jumps, and daring maneuvers. This ensures that no time spent in the game is wasted. Progress is continuously made even when losing a race or playing online with a less-than-ideal group. The drive to discover new roads, secrets, and hidden cars can be highly addictive. The moment you get to test drive a Ferrari 360 in a race and then keep it (spoiler alert), it’s clear the game has a strong hold on you.<\/p>\n

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It’s clear that Forza Horizon 2<\/em> is a masterfully designed and significant title. It earns a score of 10 out of 10 and stands as a compelling reason to purchase an Xbox One.<\/p>\n

See you on the horizon.<\/p>\n