Forza Horizon 5 on PS5: A Thrilling Joyride That Redefines Racing for PlayStation Fans

After years of being an Xbox exclusive, Forza Horizon 5 has finally raced onto the PlayStation 5, and we got our hands on it ahead of its official release on April 29, 2025. Originally launched in 2021 for Xbox and PC, this iconic open-world racer from Playground Games has been a benchmark for the genre, and its arrival on PS5 marks a historic moment for PlayStation fans.

Having spent some quality time with the game in early access (available since April 25 for Premium Edition owners), I can confidently say it’s a total joyride that blends stunning visuals, seamless performance, and pure fun. Here’s our in-depth take on why Forza Horizon 5 is a must-play on PS5, along with what’s new and how it feels on Sony’s hardware.

A Historic Debut for PlayStation

The Forza Horizon series has long been a jewel in Xbox’s crown, often hailed as one of the best racing franchises ever. Its debut on PS5 is a big win for PlayStation fans who’ve watched enviously as Xbox players cruised through vibrant open worlds.

The game’s launch on PS5, alongside other Xbox titles like Sea of Thieves, reflects Microsoft’s shift toward multiplatform releases—a move that’s been debated among gamers. While some worry about the implications of mandatory Microsoft account linking for digital preservation, the consensus is clear: Forza Horizon 5 on PS5 is a treat worth celebrating. With cross-platform play, PS5 players can join the global Forza community from day one, making this release feel inclusive and connected.

What’s Forza Horizon 5 All About?

Set in a breathtaking open-world rendition of Mexico, Forza Horizon 5 drops you into the Horizon Festival—a celebration of cars, speed, and freedom. The game kicks off with a jaw-dropping sequence where you’re air-dropped onto a volcano, racing down its slopes before transitioning through jungles, deserts, and historic towns.

The map is massive, diverse, and meticulously detailed, offering everything from lush rainforests to sandy beaches. With over 900 cars to choose from, countless races, challenges, and modes like The Eliminator and Hide & Seek, there’s no shortage of content. The PS5 version includes all previously released expansions (Hot Wheels and Rally Adventure), Car Pass vehicles, and paid DLC packs, ensuring you’re getting the complete experience.

How It Plays on PS5: A Flawless Transition

Ported by Panic Button, Forza Horizon 5 on PS5 feels right at home. Having played it previously on Xbox Series X, I was curious how it would translate to Sony’s hardware—and it’s nothing short of spectacular. The game offers two graphics modes: Performance (60fps) and Quality (30fps). I opted for Performance mode, and the gameplay was buttery smooth with no noticeable frame drops or hiccups.

Visually, it’s a stunner—lush environments, detailed cars, and dynamic weather effects make every drive a visual feast. On the PS5 Pro, the experience is even better, with enhanced visual fidelity in Performance mode and ray-traced car reflections in Quality mode during races and free roam, as noted in tech analyses by Digital Foundry.

The DualSense controller adds a subtle but welcome layer of immersion. The adaptive triggers provide resistance when braking at high speeds, mimicking the feel of a real brake pedal, while haptic feedback lets you feel the terrain changes—from asphalt to gravel to mud.

While the implementation isn’t as nuanced as Gran Turismo 7, it still enhances the tactile experience. Loading times are impressively fast, matching the Xbox Series X, and the overall polish is evident in every aspect of the game.

What’s New: Horizon Realms and More

Alongside its PS5 debut, Forza Horizon 5 introduces the Horizon Realms update, a free content drop for all platforms. This mode revives some of the best Evolving Worlds content from the game’s live service history, allowing newcomers to experience limited-time locations and events. It also adds a brand-new Stadium Track for high-octane racing.

The update includes 17 new achievements and 45 in-game accolades, giving achievement hunters plenty to chase. However, some reviews have noted that Horizon Realms feels underwhelming for veterans, lacking the depth expected from such a hyped addition. For new players, though, it’s a fantastic way to dive into the game’s rich history without feeling like you’ve missed out.

A Joyride for All Skill Levels

What makes Forza Horizon 5 so special is its accessibility. It strikes a perfect balance between arcade fun and realistic physics, offering a driving model that feels rewarding without being overly complex. Whether you’re a casual racer or a seasoned pro, the game caters to all skill levels with customizable difficulty settings.

The open-world structure means you’re free to explore at your own pace—race, stunt, or just cruise while listening to the in-game radio (which even features Halo music, a surreal touch on PS5). The sheer variety of activities ensures there’s always something to do, from barn finds to ridiculous jumps.

For PlayStation fans, the game evokes nostalgia for classics like MotorStorm, especially when hurtling down volcanic slopes. Compared to Gran Turismo 7, which leans heavily into simulation, Forza Horizon 5 is more laid-back and festival-focused, making it a refreshing addition to the PS5’s racing lineup. Posts on X reflect this sentiment, with users like @AR12Gaming praising its polished feel and stunning visuals on PS5.

A Few Caveats

While the game is a triumph, there are a few catches. You’ll need a Microsoft account to play, a requirement consistent with other Xbox-to-PS5 ports like Minecraft. This has sparked some concern about long-term preservation, especially since the game is digital-only on PS5. There’s also no cross-save functionality, so your progress on Xbox or PC won’t transfer. For trophy hunters, the Platinum trophy is more achievable than expected—you won’t need all 165 trophies, though winning a round of The Eliminator mode might pose a challenge. Lastly, if you’ve already played Forza Horizon 5 extensively on another platform, the Horizon Realms update might not justify a double-dip unless you’re eager to experience it with DualSense features.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Have Racer on PS5

Forza Horizon 5 on PS5 is a masterclass in open-world racing, delivering a near-flawless port that stands toe-to-toe with the best racing games on the platform. Its vibrant world, smooth performance, and endless content make it a joyride worth taking, especially for PlayStation fans who’ve never experienced the series.

While the Horizon Realms update might not impress veterans, it’s a thoughtful addition for newcomers. Priced at $59.99 for the Standard Edition (with the Premium Edition at $99.99 for early access), it’s a steal for the amount of content you’re getting. As we await Forza Horizon 6—hopefully also on PS5 at launch—this release proves that great games can transcend platform rivalries. Have you pre-ordered Forza Horizon 5 on PS5? Let us know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!