For over two decades, the Forza Motorsport series has carved its path in the vast world of racing games. Distinct from its open-world counterpart, Forza Horizon, the Motorsport franchise focuses on meticulously recreating real-world tracks, physics, cars, and the exhilarating challenge of mastering both car and track.

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A cornerstone of the racing genre, each Forza Motorsport title has played a part in pushing the boundaries of graphical fidelity, simulation physics, and online competition. The series boasts a rich history, with each iteration adding its own flourishes to the motorsport formula. While critical and player reception has varied across the extensive library, one thing remains constant: every Forza Motorsport game has received praise for its commitment to accessibility and depth.

8 Forza Motorsport 5 (2013)

Metascore: 79

Forza Motorsport 5, being a launch title for the Xbox One, had the responsibility of showcasing the console's capabilities. The game featured impressive visuals that pushed the boundaries of graphical fidelity at that time. Thanks to the Xbox One's upgraded hardware, it was also the first game to implement Turn 10's Drivatar AI competitors. However, being the first version of the technology, it had several flaws, the most important being over-aggressive AI that would annoyingly brake-check players on straights.

The career mode saw a slight shift in focus, incorporating elements of storytelling alongside the traditional race structure. Players progressed through a narrative-driven journey, unlocking new cars and challenges as they advanced. Although this approach aimed to create a more immersive experience, the overall career was deemed dull. This was a major drawback since most players were only interested in the career, and combined with the immature Drivatar AI, it led to the lowest Metascore a Forza Motorsport title has ever gained.

7 Forza Motorsport (2023)

Metascore: 84

The latest entry in the Forza Motorsport franchise, the 2023 iteration often cited as Forza Motorsport 8, marks a triumphant return to the series' core strengths. While the Forza Motorsport franchise has traditionally released a new entry every two years, the developers decided to take four this time and overhaul the game completely, starting from scratch. The core focus of Forza Motorsport 2023 is its physics engine. The handling, grip, and tire model are precise. The dynamic weather is better than ever, with most tracks available at different times of the day and weather conditions.

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Another major change in the latest entry was the upgrade system. Where in all previous titles upgrades were simply a matter of in-game credit, Forza Motorsport 2023 doesn't allow upgrades unless the car's been driven enough. In a way, upgrades are based on how much experience the player has with the car, not how deep their pockets run. This added RPG elements to the racing game, a change that most players didn't adapt to as quickly. Additionally, some players questioned the way upgrades were listed. All these combined together, resulted in a Metacritic score which was lower than most anticipated.

6 Forza Motorsport 7 (2017)

Metascore: 86

Forza Motorsport 7 addressed some of the criticisms directed towards Forza Motorsport 6. The developers struck a better balance between visual fidelity and realistic handling. The physics model received an overhaul, resulting in a more rewarding driving experience. Although some sim-savvy players called it arcade handling, the cars in Forza Motorsport 7 felt more responsive and nuanced than before.

The introduction of dynamic time of day and weather effects further enhanced the immersion factor. Players could experience the dramatic shift in lighting conditions as the sun set during a race, which added another layer of realism and depth to the gameplay. The new features weren't all considered improvements though. Forza Motorsport 7 also introduced loot boxes to the series. While the implementation wasn't overly intrusive, it raised concerns about the potential pay-to-win mechanics within a traditionally skill-based franchise, and this was enough to rob Forza Motorsport 7 from ranking lower on this list.

5 Forza Motorsport 6 (2015)

Metascore: 87

Forza Motorsport 6 prioritized creating a visually stunning experience. The game boasted cutting-edge graphics that redefined the visual benchmark for racing games. Tracks and cars appeared more lifelike than ever before, immersing players in a world of vibrant colors and detailed car models. The introduction of weather conditions added a new layer of challenge and aesthetics. Players now could race in conditions other than perfect: rain, fog, and even nighttime races. However, the focus on visual fidelity came with compromises to the driving physics. The handling, while still impressive, felt slightly less precise compared to Forza Motorsport 4.

The career mode in Forza Motorsport 6, though improved, didn't quite capture the same depth and engagement as the previous titles. While the structure offered a sense of progression, it lacked the variety and challenge that kept players hooked in Forza 3 and 4. Nevertheless, Forza Motorsport 6 made up for its shortcomings in physics with its dazzling rain visuals and received overall positive reviews.

4 Forza Motorsport 2 (2007)

Metascore: 90

Forza Motorsport 2 introduced an unprecedented level of car customization. Players could not only modify the performance aspects of their vehicles but also personalize their appearance with an array of visual upgrades. From intricate body kits to custom paint jobs, Forza Motorsport 2 offered a platform for players to create their dream racing machines.

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The Motorsport series is known for its accessibility for a wide range of players, and Forza Motorsport 2 played a pivotal role in shaping this reputation. Players could take their pick at which driving assists they want to enable, and how skilled the AI drivers should be. The accessibility features introduced in Forza Motorsport 2 aimed to make the game enjoyable for racing veterans and newcomers alike. They succeeded, greatly expanding the range of players who could enjoy the game and set the Forza franchise to become one of the most accessible racing games on any platform.

3 Forza Motorsport 4 (2011)

Metascore: 91

Forza Motorsport 4 is still regarded as a champion of simulation-style racing within the series. The physics engine received a substantial upgrade, delivering an unparalleled level of precision and authenticity in the driving experience. Forza Motorsport 4 offered a level of car control that felt closer to driving a real machine on a real track. The detailed force feedback system enhanced this sensation even more, transmitting the vibrations and feedback of the car through the controller.

A refined career mode offered a greater sense of accomplishment as players progressed through the ranks. The structured championship system, coupled with a wider array of race types and challenges, kept players engaged as they honed their racing skills. Forza Motorsport 4 was a title that decided to not introduce new flashy features, but refine everything that its predecessors had set out to do, and it did an excellent job at that.

2 Forza Motorsport 3 (2009)

Metascore: 92

Forza Motorsport 3 meticulously refined the experience established by its predecessor. The career mode transformed from a collection of races into a structured and immersive journey. Players embarked on a championship ladder, tackling diverse race types and earning rewards to progress. This shift not only provided a stronger sense of purpose but also instilled a feeling of accomplishment as players climbed the ranks.

Forza Motorsport 3 also saw the entry of the iconic Rewind feature, a time control mechanic that allows players to correct their mistakes and not have to get stuck in a loop of restarting a race over and over. This feature also enabled players to enjoy higher difficulties without being punished severely for small mistakes. The beautiful graphics, spot-on physics, and satisfying career gained Forza Motorsport 3 a rating as high as the original.

1 Forza Motorsport (2005)

Metascore: 92

The inaugural Forza Motorsport marked a monumental debut for Xbox racing games. Its physics engine ushered in a new era of realistic car handling. Players felt the subtle nuances of weight transfer and tire grip, a stark contrast to the arcade-style offerings prevalent at the time.

Breathtaking visuals, at the time, brought the tracks and cars to life in stunning detail. Spawning virtual tire smoke and replicating the roar of high-performance engines, the game successfully translated the raw energy of motorsport onto the player's screen. Moreover, the original Forza Motorsportcame with a multiplayer mode, including both online and split screen. The array of features and the quality with which they were executed, easily gained Forza Motorsport a high Metascore, one that has yet to be topped by any of its successors.

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