Since the 2000s, the “console wars” divided gamers as they debated which device had the better technology and catalog. Recently, these debates have died down as more companies opted for multi-platform releases. Franchises that were once console-exclusive have seen wider releases on their rival devices. This has extended to flagship franchises for these publishers.

Forza Horizon 5, once part of an Xbox-exclusive series, will finally be released on Sony’s PlayStation 5, and there will likely be many more in the future. Here is a breakdown of why this bridge between major consoles is a huge step for the industry.

Forza Horizon 5 On PS5

According to IGN, Sony revealed their roadmap for new releases on the PlayStation 5. One of the biggest reveals was that Forza Horizon 5, once considered an Xbox-exclusive franchise, would arrive on the PS5 in Spring 2025. While this will introduce many new players to the Forza series, they didn’t announce if this would include cross-play between these consoles. Additionally, Xbox’s executives clarified that this would not be the last exclusive released on the PS5.

While this should have been a cause for celebration, die-hard fans were skeptical of Forza Horizon 5 going beyond Xbox. Alongside Halo, these games were considered one of the “flagship” series for Microsoft’s console. Therefore, many fans believe this goes against the series’ place in the Xbox pantheon. However, the same article highlights how Microsoft’s CEO Phil Spencer and other executives announced their plans to open their catalog to other consoles like the PS5 and even the Nintendo Switch 2 in the future.

The Racing Franchise

Nearly every major console has its main racing series, such as Sony’s Gran Turismo and Nintendo’s Mario Kart. As such, Microsoft put forward the Forza Horizon series as its answer. Beginning with 2005’s Forza Motorsport, the games have become some of the most iconic racing games. Additionally, the series often featured and partnered with real-life racing organizations and car manufacturers, such as Formula One and NASCAR.

As for Forza Horizon 5, Microsoft and Playground Games released the game in 2021 and was the twelfth entry in the series. While it was a racing game, first and foremost, it was set in an open world inspired by Mexico and featured other arcade-like game modes. The game was one of the Xbox’s bestsellers and received critical acclaim. Therefore, it makes sense why Microsoft would choose it as one of their first games to port to the PS5.

The Console Wars

Years ago, the console wars reached their peak. PC, Nintendo, PlayStation, and Xbox gamers furiously argued which console had the best library and capabilities. In the modern age, more and more games are seeing wider releases across other consoles. Due to these companies’ many broad issues in the industry, many have put their rivalries aside to reach more customers. Part of this came from Microsoft’s move away from relying on hardware and greater emphasis on publishing.

Beyond Forza Horizon 5, Microsoft expanded its reach through various purchases and acquisitions. The most prominent example is its battle with the FTC over purchasing Activision-Blizzard for $70 billion. While releasing their exclusives onto the PS5 opens them up to a new section of players, it also means Microsoft’s reach is expanding. Furthermore, they have long debated the purchase’s revenue for the past few years. As a major tech giant, they naturally have a strong hold on the industry and the surrounding fields.

Conclusion

Classic and acclaimed video games were trapped on only specific console lines for too long. Fortunately, Microsoft has taken a step forward by releasing their hit game Forza Horizon 5 onto the PlayStation 5, opening the game up to new fans. It was a classic racing game serving as the best of its series.

Since Microsoft’s plans have only begun, fans must wait to see where they go, especially given their newfound hold over the medium. Because exclusives have always been a major selling point for consoles, this marks the beginning of a new market for the gaming industry.