Forza Horizon 3, set in a fictional representation of Australia, is an open-world racing video game that places a significant emphasis on free roaming. The game's structure allows players to explore the entire map from the start, with races and competitive events being optional activities. This guide, based on available game documentation, details the primary activities available to players during free roam sessions, both in single-player and multiplayer modes.
Understanding the Free Roam Environment
The core of the Forza Horizon 3 experience is the ability to freely drive across the game's expansive open world. Unlike some racing titles that require progression to unlock areas, the entire map is accessible from the beginning of the game. Players can simply choose to drive and explore without engaging in competitive events. However, it is noted that all players must complete a tutorial section at the start of the game.
Multiplayer Free Roam: Online Freeroam Mode
A key feature for many players is the Online Freeroam mode, which functions as a multiplayer lobby. This mode allows up to 12 players to join a session together. The purpose of this mode is to enable players to "hang out" with others or compete against each other in a variety of events.
Types of Online Freeroam Sessions
There are two distinct types of online sessions available: * Public Online Freeroam: A session that is joinable by any player at any time. In this setting, players will have their own individual Horizon Group. * Private Online Freeroam: A session that is accessible only by invitation or if the session leader and the player are friends on Xbox Live. All players in a private session belong to the same Horizon Group, and the session leader possesses the authority to remove any player from the session.
Event Access and Customisation in Online Freeroam
Online Freeroam provides unique access to certain game features. For instance, it is the only mode, outside of Rivals mode, where the Drag Strip can be accessed.
Any event available in the game can be accessed from within an Online Freeroam session, including events that a player has not yet unlocked in the single-player mode. When an event is started by the session leader, other players have a 30-second window to join. They must then select a suitable car for the event. If a player does not own a car that meets the event's requirements, they have the option to borrow a vehicle from the Horizon Car Rental service, which includes the leader's car with its tune applied.
Races and events within Online Freeroam can be heavily customised by the host. Options include: * Activating or deactivating team races. * Enabling or disabling collision with other players. * Applying class restrictions to all events.
The types of events available in Online Freeroam are diverse and mirror the single-player campaign. They include: * Circuit * Descent * Sprint * Cross Country * Hill Climb * Street Race * Cross Country Circuit * Scramble * Trail * Flag Rush * Infected * King
Activities and Considerations During Free Roam
While the primary activity in free roam is driving and exploring, there are specific gameplay mechanics and player considerations to be aware of.
Testing Vehicles and Managing Traffic
Players may wish to use free roam to test out different cars on specific stretches of road, such as the long straight near the airport. However, it is not possible to remove all other vehicles from the free roam environment. Traffic cars will always be present, which can be a consideration for players looking for an uninterrupted driving experience.
Event Restart and Car Selection
After completing a race or event, a "Restart" option is available. A key limitation of this function is that it does not allow the player to change to a different car for the subsequent attempt. The player must use the same car they started the event with. To restart an event with a different vehicle, the player must either drive back to the event's starting point manually or use the fast travel system.
Fast Travel and Skill Perks
The game includes a skill perk that unlocks the ability to instantly travel to any discovered location on the map. This can be a significant time-saver, especially for travelling long distances across the map. Using this instant travel function means the player gains no credits or experience points for the journey. Fast travel can also be used by finding and smashing hidden fast travel boards located around the map. If a player has not discovered all these boards, using the fast travel system will cost in-game credits.
Conclusion
Forza Horizon 3 offers a robust free roam experience, with the Online Freeroam mode providing a social and competitive platform for up to 12 players. The open-world design encourages exploration from the outset, with a wide variety of event types accessible both in single-player and multiplayer. Key gameplay features include customisable event settings in multiplayer, car rental options for players without suitable vehicles, and a fast travel system that can be unlocked via skill perks or by finding hidden boards. However, players should be aware of certain limitations, such as the inability to remove traffic from free roam and the restriction on changing cars when restarting an event.