Forza Horizon 5 will require a Microsoft account to play on PS5

With Forza Horizon 5 making its PlayStation 5 debut next month, new details have emerged in an online FAQ published by Microsoft.

According to the FAQ, Forza Horizon 5 will require a Microsoft account to play on PS5, as well as an active PSN account. When launching the game, players will be asked to sign in with a Microsoft account and link it to their current PSN account.

This is perhaps surprising since Forza Horizon 5 doesn’t require an online connection, unlike other open-world racers like The Crew Motorfest (an offline patch is said to be in the works) and Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown. That said, select Microsoft-published titles like Sea of Thieves require a Microsoft account to play on PS5.

The FAQ adds that Microsoft account linking is required on a “title-by-title” basis, meaning you’ll need to do it again for Forza Horizon 5 even if you have already linked your account for other PS5 titles like Sea of Thieves.   

A Microsoft account is likely necessary to enable crossplay support, allowing players to compete with others online regardless of the platform.

Coupled with Microsoft confirming there are no plans for a physical disc release, the account requirement raises concerns about preservation. Unless a patch removes the requirements, it means that Forza Horizon 5 will be inaccessible on PS5 if account linking is disabled.  

Ported by Panic Button, Forza Horizon 5 is set to arrive on PS5 on 25^th April for those who pre-order the Premium Edition, with general access for everyone else starting on 29^th April. It marks the open-world racing series’ debut on PlayStation platforms as part of Microsoft’s unexpected multiplatform shift.

Three editions will be available: Standard, Deluxe and Premium. Retailing for £54.99 /€69.99/ $59.99, the Standard Edition includes the base game, while the Premium Edition includes the Car Pass, giving access to an extra 42 cars. This edition will set you back £69.99 / €89.99/ $79.99.

Finally, the Ultimate Edition will cost £84.99 / €99.99/ $99.99 and includes the Rally Adventure and Hot Wheels expansions, along with a Car Pass, VIP Membership and Welcome Pack.

Are you concerned about Forza Horizon 5’s future preservation on PS5 in light of the Microsoft account requirement and lack of physical release? Let us know in the comments below.