Playing through both older and newer Forza Motorsport and Horizon titles recently brought a key aspect to light: the current car part upgrade system, categorized into simplistic tiers, feels somewhat dated. While functional, it lacks the nuanced depth that real-world automotive customization offers. In reality, adjustability isn’t limited to only top-tier, race-focused components. Many parts designed for cars that see occasional track use, and even some factory stock parts, offer adjustability. A prime example is the Mazda RX-7 FD Bathurst R, which comes standard with adjustable suspension. This real-world complexity is precisely why Forza should evolve its approach to car part upgrades, moving beyond basic “street,” “sport,” and “race” designations. Instead, a tiered system based on numerical values, representing varying degrees of adjustability, would offer a more authentic and engaging experience.
The current “street” equivalent could be reimagined as a lower tier with a subtle range of adjustability, while the “sport” equivalent could expand this range moderately. The “race” tier would then offer an even greater spectrum of fine-tuning, and perhaps, a new tier beyond “race” could be introduced for ultimate customization. Forza already incorporates partial adjustability in certain areas, notably the differential settings. Expanding this philosophy across a broader range of components would be a significant step forward.
This enhanced adjustability could encompass various car parts that already feature it in Forza, and even extend to new areas. Imagine the possibilities of turbocharger adjustments, allowing for precise boost control and power delivery tuning. Furthermore, current driving assists like ABS, traction control, and launch control, presently binary “on or off” options since the early Motorsport titles, could become adjustable parameters, offering players greater control over their driving experience.
While Gran Turismo 7 has implemented a similar system to some extent, drawing inspiration from successful features in other games is a common and beneficial practice in game development. This evolution of the car part upgrade system in Forza wouldn’t merely be a cosmetic change. It would fundamentally alter the gameplay experience, providing a deeper, more realistic, and ultimately more rewarding system for car enthusiasts and racing simulation fans alike. By focusing on tiered adjustability, Forza could bridge the gap between arcade-style upgrades and the intricate world of real-world automotive tuning.
