12 cert, Microsoft Studios/ Playground Games, Xbox 360 ****

The Forza games have always been meticulous and playable, but by moving beyond the racetrack, Forza Horizon has given the franchise a welcome change of direction. This open- world racer kicks off in summer- time Colorado, where road races are in full swing. Climb the ladder and fame, money and cars become available. As well as countless vehicles and 216 roads, Forza Horizon has some unique garnishes, such as Kinect voice commands and “rewind”.

Not everyone likes the latter, but I do. Forza Horizon is developed for and by petrol-heads, with elaborate upgrades, admirable attention to detail and a rich online world. But Clarkson levels of knowledge are not essential; it’s a perfectly fun game if all you want to do is burn rubber. Speedy, user-friendly and beautifully presented, Forza Horizon is also a nice choice for winter gaming, thanks to its sunburnt setting, music-fest backdrop and desert vistas.