Customisation
Very easy one to kick off with. PGR4 does have some customisation options, but they are very limited. On the contrary, Forza 2 is the stuff of legend in this department. Truly exceptional.
Winner: PGR4 never figures in this one at all. Forza 2 (1-0)
Damage
Neither really shines here, as the damage is fairly poor. It’s obvious though that Forza 2’s damage engine is stronger, and against PGR4 actually looks good.
Winner: Once again, it has to be Forza 2 (2-0)
Graphics
Both excel here, utilising the power of the 360 well. PGR4 uses it better, however. The detail (see below) coupled with the weather effects far superior to anything else give Bizarre’s creation its first victory.
Winner: Snow, rain, fog, sun. Weather to rival real life. PGR4 (2-1)
Detail
The vehicles are beatifully rendered in both games, but while Forza 2 has fairly ordinary crowds, etc., PGR4’s trackside detail is quite astounding. And for that reason it walks away with this category.
Winner: Cars, equal. Trackside and weather, easily PGR4 (2-2)
Cars
PGR4 has both cars and bikes (which is good for variety if nothing else), but there’s only about 130 of them. Forza 2 on the other hand has over double that, with a selection of 300 cars. Neither have the Bugatti Veyron, however. Bummer.
Winner: No contest here. Forza 2 (3-2)
Tracks
They both have a wide variety of courses, but since PGR4’s are based on cities, they are all street circuits. Forza 2 on the other hand has found a great balance between street, track and NASCAR-style oval circuits.
Winner: Variety prevails here. Forza 2 (4-2)
Online
After using the amazing customisation to transform your car from a heap of shit to something resembling a slightly smaller heap of shit, you can then sell it on an online auction. Plus there’s the usual multiplayer racing, etc. Plus, for no obvious reason, the option to watch others playing it. PGR4 pales by comparison, with only the, albeit good, multiplayer to keep you satisfied.
Winner: Extra options edge this one. Forza 2 (5-2)
Overall
They are both fantastic games. And two of the best racers ever. But put them side-by-side and it’s clear to see that Forza 2 reigns supreme. The King returned. It wanted it’s crown back. But the young pretender just pushed it aside and sped off.
Forza MotorSport 2 5 – 2 Project Gotham Racing 4
Winner: Forza MotorSport 2
