The future of the Forza Motorsport series has been a topic of concern for many fans, especially following significant changes at Turn 10 Studios. Earlier this year, over 70 developers from Turn 10 were laid off as part of a broader restructuring by Microsoft, leading to rumors that the studio might shift its focus primarily to supporting the Forza Horizon franchise. However, recent statements from Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, suggest that the Forza Motorsport series is not over, but rather taking a rest.
Microsoft’s Vision for Forza and Halo
Phil Spencer addressed these concerns during an interview at the Tokyo Game Show 2025. When asked if the Halo and Forza Motorsport franchises were coming to an end, Spencer strongly denied this notion for Halo, reaffirming their commitment to new technologies like Unreal Engine 5. Regarding Forza Motorsport, Spencer indicated that while the franchise is currently ‘resting’, it isn’t abandoned. He explained the strategy of giving development teams more time and flexibility to focus on games that are released sooner, ensuring they aren’t overwhelmed.
Challenges with Forza Motorsport Development
Despite these reassurances, the delay in developing the latest Forza Motorsport game, which took six years compared to the usual two-year cycle, has left fans disappointed. The reboot released in 2023 did not meet the expectations of long-time enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Forza Horizon series, known for its open-world arcade racing, continues to thrive and is set to captivate fans with its upcoming release featuring a Japan setting.
Phil Spencer’s comments highlight that while Forza Motorsport is on pause, Microsoft remains committed to the franchise’s future.