Forza Horizon 4, a game that was released just six years ago, is facing its inevitable delisting from the Microsoft Store, Steam, and Xbox Game Pass on December 15, 2024. This decision has been attributed to “licensing and agreements” with third-party partners, making the game no longer available for purchase after the specified date. However, players who have purchased a physical copy of the game will still have access to it, as well as those who have played the game through Xbox Game Pass and purchased DLC.
One of the notable changes that will occur with the delisting of Forza Horizon 4 is the wrapping up of the Festival Playlist, with Series 77 marking the game’s final playlist. Once this playlist concludes on August 22, players will no longer be able to access it, and several achievements tied to this mode will become unavailable. This adds a sense of finality to the game and highlights the impact of its impending delisting.
In addition to the base game, all downloadable content (DLC) for Forza Horizon 4 is set to be delisted soon. As of June 25, DLC has already been removed from sale, meaning that players will no longer be able to purchase additional car packs, passes, and expansions. This sudden removal of DLC raises concerns for players who may have missed out on purchasing this content earlier.
The sudden delisting of Forza Horizon 4 has been attributed to the expiration of licensing agreements with the various partners involved in the game’s creation. These agreements, while not specified, likely include music licenses, licensed cars and brands, as well as tie-in content such as the Lego expansion. The cost associated with licensing these elements necessitates short-term agreements, making the delisting of the game inevitable.
The delisting of popular video games like Forza Horizon 4 highlights the challenges associated with game preservation in the current gaming landscape. Complex and expensive licensing agreements often lead to games being removed from digital storefronts within a few years of their launch, making it difficult for players to access or enjoy them in the long term. This raises concerns about the preservation of gaming history and the experiences of dedicated players.
The impending delisting of Forza Horizon 4 serves as a reminder of the transient nature of video games in today’s industry. While licensing and agreements play a crucial role in shaping the gaming experience, they also contribute to the eventual removal of games from circulation. As players prepare for the game’s departure from digital platforms, it prompts reflection on the importance of game preservation and the challenges faced by the gaming community in an ever-evolving landscape.
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