Gran Turismo 7 vs. Forza Horizon 5 on PS5: Which game rules the road?

Racing game fans, your dilemma just got real. With Forza Horizon 5 speeding onto PlayStation 5 in spring 2025, it’s no longer just about Gran Turismo 7 for PS5 users. But here’s the catch—both games are incredible in their own right, and they offer completely different driving experiences. So which one should you actually pick?
Gameplay Style: Simulation vs. Arcade Gran Turismo 7 is a racing sim purist’s dream. It’s all about realism—precise physics, detailed car mechanics, and that authentic “behind the wheel” feel. Every corner you take and every upgrade you make matters.

Forza Horizon 5, on the other hand, is all about fun, freedom, and flair. You’re not locked to a track. You're exploring a vibrant, open-world Mexico with challenges, events, and stunts around every corner. Want to race a jet, drive through a sandstorm, or go off-roading? FH5 says, "Why not?"

Verdict

• Pick GT7 if you love structured racing and car tuning.
• Go with FH5 if you’re into wild jumps, off-road adventures, and driving with no rules.
  

Gran Turismo 7 looks better than Forza Horizon 5... that's the tweet.. pic.twitter.com/1JWli9g6Lq

— Chaos (@Chaosxsilencer) March 4, 2022

Visuals and Performance on PS5 Gran Turismo 7 looks breathtaking on PS5. The lighting, the reflections, the track detail—it’s a visual masterpiece built with Sony’s console in mind. You can choose between performance or ray tracing mode depending on what you value more: buttery smooth gameplay or jaw-dropping visuals.

Forza Horizon 5, though originally designed for Xbox, is getting a fully optimized PS5 release. That means all the good stuff—4K resolution, fast loading, smooth frame rates, and every expansion included.

Verdict

• Both look amazing, but if you want a game built for the PS5 from the ground up, GT7 edges ahead.

Content and CustomizationGT7 has over 400 cars and dozens of tracks. It’s built around car collecting, tuning, and a detailed career mode that teaches you everything from car history to driving techniques.

FH5? It’s bursting with content. Over 900 cars, regular seasonal updates, custom events, and wacky mods. Plus, it includes two massive expansions—Hot Wheels and Rally Adventure—and a new “Horizon Realms” mode is on the way.

Verdict

• If you want a ton of variety and constant updates, Forza wins this round.
  

Online and CommunityGran Turismo 7’s Sport mode is all about clean, competitive racing. It’s organized, structured, and ideal for players who want to climb the ranks fairly.

Forza Horizon 5 leans into community fun—car meets, casual challenges, user-created tracks, and shared events. It’s social and chaotic (in a good way).

Verdict

• Prefer serious multiplayer racing? GT7 is your go-to.
• Love spontaneous fun with friends? FH5 all the way.

So, Which One Should You Pick?Pick Gran Turismo 7 if you’re a motorsport enthusiast who loves precision, realism, and competitive play. Go for Forza Horizon 5 if you want freedom, creativity, and a more laid-back racing experience with tons of content. Whichever one you choose, you’re in for a wild ride. But if you’ve got the time (and budget), here’s a cheeky idea: Why not both?