Delisted Open-World Racing Game Restores Online Features

Despite being delisted in 2020, Forza Horizon 3's online services remain operational, much to the delight of its player base. This commitment to maintaining online functionality was recently reaffirmed by a community manager who confirmed server reboots following player reports of inaccessible features. This stands in contrast to the permanent shutdown of online services for Forza Horizon and Forza Horizon 2 after their delistings.

The Forza franchise, launched in 2005 with Forza Motorsport, has seen significant growth, culminating in the recent success of Forza Horizon 5. Released in 2021, Forza Horizon 5 boasts over 40 million players, solidifying its place as one of Xbox's most successful titles. This success, however, didn't prevent the game from being controversially excluded from the Best Ongoing Game category at The Game Awards 2024.

The recent concern regarding Forza Horizon 3's online services stemmed from a Reddit post expressing worry about the game's future. A player reported difficulties accessing certain features, sparking fears of an imminent shutdown. However, Playground Games' senior community manager swiftly addressed these concerns, announcing server restarts and alleviating player anxieties. The positive player response following the reboot further highlights the importance of this continued support.

The delisting of Forza Horizon 4 in December 2024, despite its impressive 24 million player base, served as a stark reminder of the potential for online service termination. Playground Games' proactive response to the Forza Horizon 3 situation, however, offers a reassuring contrast, demonstrating a commitment to player engagement and community satisfaction. With Forza Horizon 5's continued success and anticipation building for a potential Forza Horizon 6, set perhaps in Japan, the future of the franchise appears bright.