Forza Horizon 4 still gets talked about even after being pulled from digital stores which honestly says a lot about the game. Set in a familiar, slightly fictional version of Great Britain, it offers an open-world racing experience that feels relaxed at first but has more depth once you settle in. You can race solo, jump into online events or team up in co-op without being forced into one fixed path. That freedom is great, though it can leave new players unsure about what to do next. The delisting has only added more confusion for people trying to play it today.
This article guides you on how to play Forza Horizon 4 from the basics, whether you’re new, on PC or returning after a break. It also explains how the game works post-delisting and what options are still available now.
What Is Forza Horizon 4 & How It Works
Game Overview: Open World & Seasons
Forza Horizon 4 takes place in a large open world inspired by locations across the United Kingdom. Instead of closed circuits, players drive freely across towns, farmland, coastlines and narrow country roads. One of the defining features is the seasonal system. The world rotates through summer, autumn, winter and spring on a weekly basis. Each season changes how the game feels. Winter brings snow and ice that affect grip. Autumn adds rain and slippery roads. These changes are shared by all players at the same time, which makes the world feel alive and connected rather than static.
Basic Objectives in the Game
The game does not give you one main objective. Instead, it offers a series of activities that all push progression forward. You enter races, complete challenges, explore the map and earn influence points. Influence unlocks new events, festival expansions and cars. Over time, your garage grows and so does your access to content. There is no wrong order to play in, which is both freeing and slightly confusing at first.
How to Play Forza Horizon 4 for Beginners
Starting Out: What You Need to Know
When starting Forza Horizon 4, the game introduces mechanics slowly. Basic driving controls, menus and map icons appear as you go. Influence is the main form of progression and is earned through almost everything you do. Credits are used to buy cars and upgrades. Early on, it is better to experiment rather than rush. The game rewards exploration just as much as winning races.
Types of Races & Activities
There are many race types spread across the map. Road races focus on speed and clean driving lines. Dirt races mix tarmac and gravel. Cross country races are chaotic and take place across fields and rivers. There are stunt activities like speed zones, danger signs and drift challenges, beyond racing. Seasonal events and Forzathon challenges add variety and encourage trying different cars and driving styles.
Tips for Beginners
Beginners should focus on versatile cars that can compete in several race types. Upgrading too early can sometimes make cars harder to control. Let the game adjust the difficulty naturally. Completing seasonal playlists is one of the easiest ways to earn rewards without grinding endlessly. Most importantly, do not feel pressured to do everything at once.
How to Play Forza Horizon 4 on PC
Platforms Where You Can Play
Forza Horizon 4 was released on Xbox One and Windows 10, with a Steam version launching in March 2021. Even though the game has been delisted, players who already own it can still play on PC. Ownership through Microsoft or Steam remains valid.
System Requirements
The game runs well on a wide range of systems. Mid range gaming PCs handle it comfortably at recommended settings. It supports keyboard, mouse and controller input. Most players prefer a controller due to smoother steering and throttle control.
Tips for PC Players
PC players should focus on stable performance rather than pushing maximum visuals. A consistent frame rate improves driving precision. Controllers offer a more natural feel but keyboard controls are still viable with some practice. Adjusting steering assists can make a big difference depending on skill level.
What Am I Supposed to Do in Forza Horizon 4?
Core Mechanics Explained
Progression revolves around influence, seasonal playlists and festival levels. As you earn influence, new events appear and festival sites expand. Seasons rotate weekly, unlocking fresh challenges and rewards. This structure encourages returning regularly without forcing daily play.
Casual vs Competitive Play
Some players treat the game as a relaxing driving experience, exploring the map and collecting cars. Others focus on lap times, leaderboards and online competition. Forza Horizon 4 supports both approaches equally. It is built around a flexible progression loop where players choose activities, earn rewards and unlock content at their own pace. This type of feedback-driven design exists across many digital entertainment formats.
For example, modern online slots rely on progression mechanics like unlockable features and bonus rounds to maintain engagement even though the gameplay itself is very different. This balance of choice and reward is part of why Forza Horizon 4 still feels relevant.
Why Can’t I Play Forza Horizon 4 Anymore?
Delisting Explained
Forza Horizon 4 was delisted from digital stores on December 15, 2024. The primary reason was licensing, mainly related to music and car brands. Once these agreements expire, games are often removed from sale.
Common Reasons Players Can’t Play Today
New players can no longer buy the game digitally. It was also removed from Game Pass. Some players experience access issues due to account verification or platform syncing problems especially when reinstalling.
What Happens If You Already Own It?
Players who purchased the game before delisting retain full access. You can still download, install and play the game as normal using your existing account.
How to Play Forza Horizon 4 After Delisting
Ways to Get the Game Now
Physical disc copies remain playable on supported consoles. Unused digital codes can still be redeemed and activated. Once activated, the game behaves like any other owned title.
Online Multiplayer After Delisting
At the time of writing, online servers remain active. Multiplayer features still function and no shutdown date has been announced. Players can continue racing together online.
Troubleshooting Access Problems
If access issues appear, logging into the correct account usually resolves them. License syncing and reinstalling the game can also help. In some cases, platform support may be required.
FAQs
Q1. What am I supposed to do in Forza Horizon 4?A. Explore the world, take part in races, earn influence and progress at your own pace.
Q2. How can I play Forza Horizon 4 on PC?A. The game is available for PC play through digital ownership of the game and disc possession and valid code redemption.
Q3. Why can’t I play Forza Horizon 4 anymore?A. The game was delisted in December 2024, which means it can no longer be purchased digitally but existing owners can still play.