In the still-developing space of live games and digital storefronts, it definitely feels like we’re starting to see more and more games being removed from sale for one reason or another.
For some, like the impending closure of the Xbox 360 digital store, it’s a matter of balancing upkeep with return on older platforms. For others, like the news that Forza Horizon 4 is soon to be removed from the Microsoft Store and Steam, it’s a matter of licensing and agreements and can affect games that could very much still be considered “current.”
After six years, Playground Games has announced that Forza Horizon 4 is being delisted and removed from sale on Xbox and PC, as well as removed from the Xbox Game Pass library. This means it will no longer be possible to purchase the game, though anyone who already owns it or purchases it before the removal date of December 15th, 2024, will still be able to access the game from their library.
In the post announcing this new, Playground also detailed a number of changes happening ahead of the sunsetting of FH4, including changes to the game’s Festival Playlists. The game’s DLC is being removed right now, leaving the Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate versions of Forza Horizon 4 available to purchase ahead of the delisting, and various discounts will be made available between now and then.
The studio also notes that anyone who played the game via Xbox Game Pass, but separately purchased DLC, will receive a token to redeem the full game to their account before its removal.
Of course, Forza Horizon fans will be used to this song and dance by now, with previous games all eventually reaching “End of life” status thanks to things like music and car licensing. Forza Horizon 4’s six years on digital shelves actually eclipses the mere four years that the third game enjoyed, so that’s something, I suppose.