Forza Horizon 4, the critically acclaimed open-world racing game set in a beautifully realized digital version of Britain, is nearing the end of its digital life.
On December 15, the title will be removed from digital storefronts such as the Microsoft Store and Steam, marking another high-profile case of game delisting.
Driving into the Sunset: Why is Forza Horizon 4 Being Delisted?
The primary reason behind this decision, as stated by developer Playground Games, is the expiration of "licensing and agreements with [their] partners".
Forza Horizon 4, like many racing games, has a vast collection of real-world cars and a curated soundtrack where each element is tied to specific licensing agreements. These agreements typically have a limited timeframe, and when they expire, the game's publisher either needs to renew them or remove the associated content.
In the case of Forza Horizon 4, Playground Games has chosen to delist the game rather than renegotiate the myriad of licenses involved. This isn't surprising considering the precedent set by Forza Horizon 3, which was delisted in 2020 for similar reasons. This pattern of delisting suggests that it is unlikely to be the last time a Forza Horizon title is removed from digital storefronts.
The Impact of Delisting: What Does This Mean for Players?
For players who already own Forza Horizon 4, either through direct purchase or via Xbox Game Pass, the impact is minimal. They will still be able to download, play, and enjoy all the features of the game, including online multiplayer and any purchased DLC. Physical copies of the game will also continue to function normally.
However, after December 15, Forza Horizon 4 will no longer be available for purchase digitally. This means that anyone who hasn't already secured a copy will need to find a physical edition, which may become more expensive and harder to find once the digital version is no longer available.
The Road Ahead: Preserving Games in a Digital Age
The delisting of Forza Horizon 4 raises broader questions about game preservation in the digital age. As more games rely on online functionality and external licensing agreements, the potential for them to become unavailable increases. While some companies offer solutions like offline modes or extended licensing agreements, these are not always guaranteed.
For fans of the franchise, the delisting serves as a reminder to secure a copy of the Xbox exclusive before it's too late. For the gaming community at large, it is a call to consider the long-term accessibility of our favorite titles and the importance of supporting efforts to preserve them.
Closing Note
The delisting of Forza Horizon 4 is a significant event for fans of the racing genre and a stark reminder of the ephemeral nature of digital game ownership.
While the game will continue to be accessible for current owners, its removal from digital storefronts represents a loss for those who have yet to experience its open-world thrills.
As we move further into the digital age of gaming, issues of game preservation and the long-term accessibility of our favorite titles will only become more prominent.