Just last week, I found myself doing something quite out of the ordinary—I went ahead and bought an Xbox game even though I don’t own an Xbox console. It might sound a bit odd, especially since I don’t own a gaming PC either, which means I wasn’t about to use Xbox Play Anywhere. So, why did I decide to get my hands on Forza Horizon 4? Well, it was being taken off digital storefronts due to licensing agreements, and I didn’t want to miss out before it vanished. The deadline has come and gone, meaning you can no longer scoop up Forza Horizon 4 digitally. However, snagging a digital code and activating it is still a viable option.
Forza Horizon 4 officially left digital shelves on December 15, 2024, leaving fans wondering about its availability. If you’re already acquainted with the Forza franchise, you probably saw this coming. It’s not the first time a Forza game has been delisted, and it certainly won’t be the last. Yet, I was still somewhat surprised when the game was removed. Thankfully, our very own Zachary Boddy tipped me off about the delisting date. So, I managed to secure the Forza Horizon 4 Ultimate Edition at a reduced price from the Microsoft Store to ensure it’s part of my collection. I have my sights set on getting an Xbox console in the future, so Forza Horizon 4 will be there waiting for me.
While it’s true that Forza Horizon 4 has been removed from the Microsoft Store, that doesn’t mean it’s gone for good. You can still purchase it, but you’ll need to buy a digital code or track down a physical copy instead of going through a digital storefront. As of now, Amazon still stocks digital codes for Forza Horizon 4. You can find the Standard version for $9.99, the Deluxe edition for $14.99, and the Ultimate edition for $19.99—all available at the time of writing.
These digital codes will continue to function, but their availability is becoming more uncertain. Retailers will likely sell out at some point, and getting restocked isn’t guaranteed. Amazon might have the option to order more from other retailers, but it’s not something to bank on. Essentially, Forza Horizon 4 is becoming harder to access.
Back when it launched, Forza Horizon 4 received rave reviews and has only improved since, thanks to the injection of content like the LEGO Speed Champions expansion, Fortune Island DLC, a selection of Hot Wheels cars, and other car packs.
With Forza Horizon 5 now available and scoring perfectly in our review, you might wonder if it’s necessary to invest in Forza Horizon 4. Sure, there was a noticeable leap in graphics and other areas between these two games, but Forza Horizon 4 holds its own as an exceptional experience. Each Forza Horizon game beautifully immerses you in its setting—be it the UK for Forza Horizon 4 or Mexico for Forza Horizon 5. Skipping out on Forza Horizon 4 would be akin to declaring it’s only worth visiting one country instead of exploring more.
It’s important to note that even though Forza Horizon 4 has been removed from digital storefronts, you can still buy digital codes for the game. These codes will remain functional, even if purchased post-delisting.
