Forza Horizon 5 Review
Game Name: Forza Horizon 5
Developer: Playground Games
Publisher: Xbox Game Studios
Initial Release Date: November 9, 2021
Genre: Racing
Platforms: Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Introduction
Forza Horizon 5, developed by Playground Games and published by Xbox Game Studios, is the fifth installment in the Forza Horizon series and the twelfth main installment in the Forza series. The game, released on November 9, 2021, is set in a fictionalized representation of Mexico, offering players a rich and vibrant open-world environment to explore. Read all the details, in our Forza Horizon 5 Review!
Gameplay Overview
Forza Horizon 5 is a racing video game set in an open-world environment based in Mexico. It boasts the largest map in the series, 50% larger than its predecessor, Forza Horizon 4, and includes the highest point in the Horizon series. The map features diverse landscapes like an active caldera volcano, jungles, beaches, Mayan temples, and cities such as Guanajuato. Players can explore the open world, compete in multiplayer races, and complete the campaign mode. The game supports extensive customization for both cars and the player character, and it’s the first in the franchise to support ray tracing on cars (available in Forzavista).
Unique Elements
Forza Horizon 5 introduces the Horizon Arcade, consisting of mini-multiplayer games spread across the map, including “Piñata pop” and the “EventLab,” where players can create custom games and races. It also features Forza Link, an AI assistant that helps players connect and play together. The game’s weather system reflects Mexico’s diverse climates and elevations, with varying weather conditions affecting the game’s eleven unique biomes. The game also sees the return of The Eliminator battle royale game mode and offers over 700 licensed vehicles.
Critical Reception
The game received high praise, earning a Metacritic score of 91/100 for PC and 92/100 for Xbox Series X/S. It was selected as IGN’s Game of the Year, with publications like Destructoid, Game Informer, and IGN giving it high ratings for its gameplay and design.
Commercial Performance
Before its release, Forza Horizon 5 saw substantial commercial success, with over 1.2 million players accessing the game through premium editions or Xbox Game Pass. The game reached #1 on Steam’s weekly charts before its release and attracted over 20 million players within seven months of its release.
Verdict
Rating: 9.5/10 – Outstanding
Forza Horizon 5 sets a new benchmark in the racing genre, offering an expansive, beautifully designed open world set in Mexico. The game’s rich variety of landscapes, combined with its deep customization options and innovative multiplayer features, make it an essential title for racing enthusiasts.