Forza Horizon 4, a game released only six years ago, is facing delisting from various platforms such as the Microsoft Store, Steam, and Xbox Game Pass. This decision is due to “licensing and agreements” with third-party partners, which has forced the game to no longer be available for purchase after 15 December 2024. However, it is important to note that while the game will no longer be available for purchase, it will still be downloadable for those who already own it, and the online multiplayer features will remain active. Players who have purchased a physical copy of the game or have bought DLC through Xbox Game Pass will also still have access. Despite these efforts to maintain access for existing players, Forza Horizon 4’s Festival Playlist will be coming to an end with Series 77 being the last one, starting on 25 July and concluding on 22 August. This decision will impact achievement hunters as some achievements tied to this mode will no longer be available.
In addition to the base game, all downloadable content for Forza Horizon 4 is also set to be delisted in the near future. The removal of DLC began on June 25, meaning that no additional car packs, passes, or expansions can be purchased. For players who have not acquired this content yet, it seems that they have missed their chance as it may already be gone forever. However, for those who want to secure at least the base game, Forza Horizon 4 is currently being offered at a discounted price on Steam, making it more accessible to new players. Another sale is set to take place on the Microsoft Store in mid-July, providing another opportunity for players to purchase the game before it becomes unavailable for purchase.
The sudden delisting of Forza Horizon 4 is attributed to the expiration of licensing agreements with various partners involved in the development of the game. While the specific agreements are not disclosed, they are likely related to the use of licensed music, cars, and brands featured in the game. Obtaining licenses for real-life content can be costly, leading to short-term agreements that eventually expire, resulting in the removal of the content from the game. Forza Horizon 4’s tie-ins with Lego and other brands further complicate the licensing issues, making it inevitable that the game would be delisted at some point. The decision to set a cutoff date in December 2024 was likely part of the original licensing arrangements, with the anticipation that players would transition to the next installment, Forza Horizon 5, by that time.
The delisting of popular video games like Forza Horizon 4 highlights the challenges of game preservation in the modern gaming industry. Complex and expensive licensing agreements often dictate the lifespan of a game, leading to their eventual removal from digital storefronts. This practice not only limits access for dedicated players but also raises concerns about the long-term availability of gaming experiences. While delisting may seem like an inevitability in today’s gaming landscape, it is crucial for players and industry stakeholders to consider the implications of such decisions on the overall gaming ecosystem.
The delisting of Forza Horizon 4 due to licensing agreements sheds light on the transient nature of video games in an era where licensing deals hold significant influence over game availability. As players say farewell to this beloved title, it prompts a critical examination of the challenges faced in preserving gaming experiences for future generations.
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