Open-World Racer Resurrects Online Play

Forza Horizon 3's Online Persistence: A Community Triumph

Despite its 2020 delisting, Forza Horizon 3's online functionality remains active, much to the delight of its player base. Initial concerns arose when players reported inaccessible features, sparking fears of an imminent shutdown mirroring the fate of Forza Horizon and Forza Horizon 2's online services. However, a Playground Games community manager swiftly intervened, confirming a server reboot and reassuring players of the ongoing commitment to maintaining online capabilities. This proactive response stands in contrast to the permanent termination of online services for earlier titles in the franchise 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. This latest installment, released in 2021, boasts over 40 million players, solidifying its position as one of Xbox's most successful titles. The game's popularity, however, didn't prevent it from being controversially omitted from The Game Awards 2024's "Best Ongoing Game" category.

The recent online service concerns regarding Forza Horizon 3 stemmed from a Reddit post expressing anxieties about the game's future. A player's inability to access certain features prompted speculation about an impending service termination. The timely intervention of Playground's senior community manager, praised by the community for their swift action, alleviated these concerns. The reboot not only restored functionality but also saw a surge in player activity, underscoring the game's enduring appeal. It's important to note that Forza Horizon 3 reached its "End of Life" status in 2020, meaning new purchases were discontinued.

The delisting of Forza Horizon 4 in December 2024, despite its impressive 24 million player count since its 2018 release, served as a stark reminder of the transience of online services. Playground Games' proactive approach to addressing Forza Horizon 3's issues, however, offers a positive counterpoint, showcasing their dedication to player experience.

With Forza Horizon 5's remarkable success and the anticipation surrounding a potential Forza Horizon 6 (perhaps set in Japan, a long-standing fan request), Playground Games continues to shape the future of the franchise while simultaneously addressing the needs of its established player base. The company's handling of the Forza Horizon 3 online service situation serves as a testament to their commitment to community engagement and long-term support.