How to Drift on Xbox Forza Horizon 4: Tips and Tricks for Beginners

Are you ready to unleash your inner drift king in the breathtaking landscapes of Forza Horizon 4? Drifting, the exhilarating art of controlled oversteer, adds a whole new dimension to racing, turning it into a dance of tire smoke and adrenaline. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a newcomer to the world of Forza, mastering the art of drifting on Xbox can be a rewarding challenge. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to conquer the corners and leave a trail of rubber in your wake.

1. Choosing the Right Car: The Foundation of Your Drifting Journey

The first step towards becoming a drift maestro is selecting the right car. Not all vehicles are created equal when it comes to drifting, and choosing the right one can make a world of difference. Look for cars with these characteristics:

• Rear-wheel drive: This is essential for drifting, as it allows you to easily induce oversteer.
• High horsepower: More power means more control over your drift, allowing you to maintain a smooth slide.
• Lightweight: A lighter car is easier to maneuver, making it more responsive to your steering inputs.
• Tuned for Drifting: Many cars in Forza Horizon 4 have pre-tuned drift builds available. These settings optimize the car’s suspension, differential, and other parameters for maximum drift performance.

Some popular drift cars in Forza Horizon 4 include:

• Mazda RX-7 (FD3S): A classic drift machine known for its balance and responsiveness.
• Nissan 240SX (S13): Another popular choice, offering a great combination of power and agility.
• BMW E30 M3: A powerful and iconic car with a reputation for its drifting capabilities.
• Toyota AE86 (Sprinter Trueno): A lightweight and agile car that’s a favorite among drift enthusiasts.

2. Mastering the Fundamentals: Steering, Throttle, and Clutch

Once you’ve chosen your drift weapon, it’s time to learn the fundamental controls that will allow you to execute a perfect drift.

• Steering: The key to successful drifting lies in precise steering inputs. Use small, controlled movements of the steering wheel to initiate and maintain your drift. Avoid overcorrecting, as this can lead to losing control.
• Throttle: The throttle is your partner in crime in drifting. Use the throttle to control the angle of your drift and maintain a steady slide. Learn to use the throttle to “catch” the car and prevent it from spinning out.
• Clutch: While not as crucial as steering and throttle, the clutch can be a valuable tool for initiating drifts. Using the clutch can help you maintain a smooth and controlled slide, especially when starting a drift from a standstill.

3. The Art of Initiating a Drift: Finding the Sweet Spot

Initiating a drift is the first step in the dance. Here’s how to do it right:

• Approach the corner: As you approach the corner, brake early and smoothly to slow down to your desired drift speed.
• Steering input: Turn the steering wheel sharply in the direction of the corner, initiating the oversteer.
• Throttle control: Use a quick burst of throttle to maintain the drift and prevent the car from spinning out.
• Counter-steering: If the car starts to spin out, gently counter-steer in the opposite direction to regain control.

4. Maintaining the Drift: A Dance of Precision

Once you’ve initiated the drift, it’s time to learn the art of maintaining it. This is where the true skill of drifting comes into play.

• Throttle control: Use the throttle to keep the rear wheels spinning and maintain the drift angle.
• Steering corrections: Make small, controlled steering adjustments to keep the car on the desired line.
• Clutch (Optional): If you’re struggling to maintain the drift, you can use the clutch to briefly slow down the rear wheels and regain control.

5. The Importance of Practice: From Beginner to Master

Drifting is an art that requires practice and patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t master it overnight. The more you practice, the better you’ll become at controlling the car. Here are some tips for practicing your drifting skills:

• Start with a low-speed track: Choose a track with wide corners and low speeds to get a feel for the car’s handling.
• Use the rewind feature: Forza Horizon 4’s rewind feature allows you to undo mistakes, making it a perfect tool for practicing your drifts.
• Experiment with different cars: Try drifting with different cars to see how their handling characteristics affect your drifting style.

6. Advanced Drift Techniques: Taking Your Skills to the Next Level

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to explore some advanced drift techniques that will elevate your drifting game.

• Clutch kick: This technique involves using the clutch to abruptly transfer power to the rear wheels, initiating a powerful drift.
• Handbrake turn: The handbrake can be used to initiate a sharp drift, especially when entering a corner at high speed.
• Power slide: This technique involves using the throttle to maintain a drift while accelerating through a corner.

7. Drifting in Forza Horizon 4: Beyond the Basics

Drifting in Forza Horizon 4 isn’t just about mastering the techniques; it’s about embracing the freedom and creativity that comes with it. There are a variety of ways to enjoy drifting in the game, from competing in Drift Zones to creating your own drift events.

• Drift Zones: These are dedicated areas where you can test your drifting skills and compete for high scores.
• Drifting Events: You can create your own drift events and challenge your friends to a showdown.
• Freestyle Drifting: Explore the open world of Forza Horizon 4 and drift through stunning landscapes, creating your own unique drift experiences.

The Final Lap: Embracing the Art of Drifting

Drifting in Forza Horizon 4 is a thrilling and rewarding experience. It’s a dance of precision, control, and creativity, where you can push your driving skills to the limit and leave your mark on the asphalt. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep practicing, experiment with different techniques, and most importantly, have fun!

Questions You May Have

Q: What are the best settings for drifting in Forza Horizon 4?

A: The best settings for drifting will vary depending on the car you’re driving. However, some general settings that work well for most drift cars include:

• Differential: Set to “Full Lock.”
• Suspension: Lower the suspension for better handling and stability.
• Tires: Use soft compound tires for maximum grip and tire smoke.

Q: How can I improve my drifting skills in Forza Horizon 4?

A: Practice, practice, practice! Start with a low-speed track and work your way up to more challenging tracks. Use the rewind feature to undo mistakes and learn from them. Experiment with different cars and settings to find what works best for you.

Q: What are some tips for winning drift events in Forza Horizon 4?

A: To win drift events, you need to score as many points as possible by maintaining a controlled drift and performing advanced techniques like clutch kicks and handbrake turns. Pay attention to the drift zone markers and try to stay within them for maximum points.

Q: Can I drift with any car in Forza Horizon 4?

A: While all cars can be drifted to some extent, rear-wheel drive cars are the best for drifting. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive cars can be more challenging to drift due to their inherent traction. However, with practice and the right settings, you can drift almost any car in Forza Horizon 4.

Q: What are the best tracks for drifting in Forza Horizon 4?

A: Forza Horizon 4 offers a variety of tracks that are perfect for drifting. Some popular choices include:

• Edinburgh Drift Zone: A challenging drift zone with tight corners and a variety of obstacles.
• Derbyshire Drift Zone: A fast and flowing drift zone with long sweeping corners.
• Bamburgh Drift Zone: A scenic drift zone with a mix of tight and wide corners.