Forza Horizon 5 is coming to PlayStation on April 29, making it the first Forza game to arrive on this platform. Before players dive in, there are several purchasing options.
The game offers three different versions at launch. Although the Ultimate Edition may look appealing, it’s not a complete edition as several car packs are not covered in the package. For a price tag of $50, players can buy the Ultimate Car Pack. This includes everything that was not included in the Standard Ultimate Edition. Importantly, it also includes a Nissan collection. This may indicate a Japan-themed future for the franchise.
Before buying, newbies are encouraged to check out the content of the car pass to get what they want for their money.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
The full crossplay functionality is one of the most powerful features of Forza Horizon 5 on PS5. PS5 players can easily join their friends on Xbox One, Xbox Series consoles and PC. Nintendo Switch 2 compatibility may be added in the future.
However, an important limitation to note is the lack of cross-save. Players cannot carry over progress from Xbox or PC versions. Cross-save functionality is available solely between the Microsoft Store version on Windows PC and Xbox consoles.
Online Requirements and Digital Format
Forza Horizon 5 on PlayStation requires a Microsoft account to play, which may frustrate some players. You can get the game via download only, while “no disc” option has been announced. The only digital means that the players will need an Internet connection at least during installation. Moreover, in some cases, for regular play as well.
Although you may not need PlayStation Plus to play alone, you might have to stay connected to the internet at all times, at least logging in as it starts.
Content Updates and Community Features
Forza Horizon 5 is special due to its content. Newer players to PlayStation will see a steady stream of new cars every week while veteran players will not. Players from all platforms can vote on which festival playlists should be included in future games.
The Backstage Pass system is super helpful because players can vote for the car they want to get permanently in the game. Once added, you can buy them with backstage passes obtained through gameplay.
Horizon Realms Update
The Horizon Realms update, which will add new vehicles like the Lamborghini Revuelto, coincides with the launch of PlayStation. These themed areas can be replayed for a new experience as there are props around the map to offer a new challenge. Some players might think that the various spots are repetitive in nature, however, the new vehicles make them worthwhile.
Graphics Performance
The PlayStation 5 version is high up on the console ladder because it runs similarly to other current gen versions. The graphical performance in the Xbox One is worst compared to Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5 Pro, and PC.
Players will have access to two graphical modes.
- Performance mode has a slightly lower resolution at 60 FPS.
- Quality mode: 30 frames per second with higher resolution.
For racing games, it is recommended to use performance mode for better gameplay. The PS5 Pro version is going to include ray tracing during the races in quality mode, although it is 30fps locked. The Pro version is expected to run at least 1440p resolution in performance mode, according to estimates.
Game Longevity and Future Updates
Fairly new PlayStation players should know that Forza Horizon 5 is basically almost done. Although bug fixes are likely to continue, Playground Games, the developer of Forza Horizon 5, is less likely to add new content now as the developer will be busy making Forza Horizon 6. However, this won’t matter as the new players will already experience an enormous amount of content since day one.
Tips for New Players
Car Settings and Assists
Forza Horizon is more like a simulation than most arcade racers are. The driving assist settings are some of the most crucial. To get the best experience, try to turn off as many assists as you are comfortable with. You should keep ABS on for the most part, however.
Changing the driver difficulty to your liking is possible, with unbeatable being the most difficult. When the traction control is turned off, you will notice a more realistic wheel spin that gives you greater control over the vehicle’s power delivery.
Drivetrain Selection
Understanding drivetrain differences is crucial.
- Best for beginners because 4WD is the most stable option.
- Although rear-wheel drive is more powerful it is easier to spin out.
- Front-wheel drive gives it a middle-ground balance but it can’t accelerate and steer at the same time.
While you move further, you can even set the balance in the front and rear power distribution for hybrid handling traits.
Car Class Optimization
The most important tip in Forza Horizon 5 for progress is to optimize the class position of your car. You should aim to max out a car class (i.e., have it be A800 rather than something like A799) rather than being part way to the next higher class (like A799). Consequently, this guarantees that the AI foes will be fair and competitive with a vehicle that is maximized.
Tuning Simplicity
Don’t be intimidated by the tuning system. Most players can enjoy the entire game without touching it. If you are beginner and want to do basic tuning, then there are two adjustments to focus on.
1. Lowering suspension for aesthetic purposes.
2. Adjusting final drive ratio (the first dial in gearing) to increase top speed.
Or, look through community tunes to find optimized setups from pros. Choose a popular song to get an instant car boost.
Money Management
Unlike a lot of other games, Forza Horizon 5 gives you plenty of money. Races award players incredible prizes just for participating, regardless of their placement. Constantly receiving spins on the wheel guarantees a stream of money and cars. Players accumulate hundreds before using them.
You can make extra money by creating and sharing tunes or liveries (paint designs) via downloads. Cars unlocked through enough popularity can be sold at the auction house for an exorbitant price.
The Festival Playlist also allows you to earn backstage passes, which you can use to get specific cars without doing any challenges.
Forza Horizon 5 can be played on PlayStation 5 as a great opportunity for Sony users to test-drive a beloved racing franchise. Even though the game might not get many new updates, it has plenty of content, you can play with friends together and it is easy to learn but deep enough.