In the Xbox One racing field, Forza Motorsport 6 easily snags pole position

On its surface, Forza Motorsport 6 is the latest installment of a now decade-old racing game franchise. Developed by Turn 10 Studios, it goes on sale for the Xbox One shortly—September 10 for the Ultimate Edition, followed by a staggered release across the planet the following week for everyone else.

Did that release sneak up you too? If pre-launch chatter around Forza 6 seems to be at “merely the latest installment” levels, blame 2013. Forza 5 left some fans feeling short-changed, and even fervent followers of the series couldn’t deny the franchise lacked its usual depth with that last iteration. At the time, we hoped any missteps were simply a consequence of being rushed out for the Xbox One's launch.

Thankfully, when the nice people at Turn 10 had us out to Redmond, Washington earlier this year to have a look at the still-in-progress new game, we were relieved. What we saw then left us excited, and several months later, we're here to tell you the anticipation was warranted. Forza 6 is the best Xbox One racing game you can buy right now, whether you're a 12-year old kid who likes crashing into things or a 30-something with an autocross addiction.

Weather and darkness

No matter what you value in a racing game, Forza 6 has it. There are 26 different locations, including several new real-world tracks—almost all with multiple layouts or weather conditions. What's more, all of the tracks carried over from Forza 5 have done so some extra care and attention from the art department. The new game has 460 cars, all of which are rendered in exquisite detail. And there’s plenty to do in terms of goals and modes, both on your own and in multiplayer.