As a long-time content creator for carcodepro.com and a dedicated car enthusiast, I often get asked about car availability in racing games, especially within the Forza Horizon series. It’s frustrating to see beloved cars from previous titles disappear in newer installments. The common explanation often points to “licensing issues,” but frankly, that answer feels insufficient, particularly when considering the advanced technology used to create these virtual cars. Let’s delve into the question of why cars, specifically those meticulously crafted using laser scanning technology in Forza Horizon 4, are missing from Forza Horizon 5.
Forza Horizon 4 was lauded for its incredible car roster, many of which were created using laser scanning. This technology allows developers to capture every minute detail of a real-world vehicle, resulting in unparalleled realism in the game. The precision offered by laser scanning meant that cars in FH4 weren’t just visually stunning; they were also incredibly accurate representations of their real-life counterparts in terms of dimensions and driving dynamics. This level of detail significantly enhanced the immersive experience for players, making every drive feel authentic.
Alt text: A vibrant car selection screen from Forza Horizon 4 showcasing a diverse range of laser scanned vehicles available to players.
However, upon transitioning to Forza Horizon 5, a noticeable number of these meticulously crafted vehicles were absent. While licensing complexities are undoubtedly a factor in the gaming industry, it’s hard to accept it as the sole reason. Consider the case of Stellantis brands like Lancia and Alfa Romeo. Their absence in FH5 is often attributed to a “major restructuring” within the company. Yet, Gran Turismo 7, a direct competitor, features Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Lancia. This discrepancy raises questions about the true nature of these licensing hurdles. If Gran Turismo can secure licenses for these iconic marques, why can’t Forza Horizon, especially considering the presumed prior agreements from FH4?
Alt text: The classic Citroen DS 23 model rendered in Forza Horizon 4, highlighting the detail achievable through laser scanning technology.
My personal favorite, the Citroen DS 23, a car added to Forza Horizon 4 late in its content cycle and likely benefiting from laser scanning techniques implemented throughout the game’s development, is nowhere to be found in FH5. It’s difficult to believe that licensing for the entire Citroen brand was suddenly revoked, especially since other brands under the same PSA Group umbrella, like Renault and Peugeot, remain in Forza Horizon 5.
It’s clear that while licensing is a complex issue, it’s unlikely to be the only explanation for the missing Forza Horizon 4 Laser Scanned Cars in the latest installment. The playlist updates for Forza Horizon 5 since its launch further suggest that car availability is not solely dictated by insurmountable licensing obstacles. Perhaps other factors, such as development priorities shifting towards new vehicles or strategic decisions regarding car roster management, also play a significant role. Ultimately, the absence of these beloved, high-fidelity cars leaves a void for dedicated fans of the franchise and raises questions about the future of car curation in Forza Horizon games.
