Forza Horizon 4 - the legendary arcade racing game from Playground Games, released in 2018, but still not losing popularity. Since its release, it has become a standard in the genre thanks to stunning graphics, dynamic gameplay and a huge selection of cars. But is the game still relevant in 2026? Is it worth buying or downloading if you are not yet familiar with the franchise?
In this review we will look at all the key aspects Forza Horizon 4: from gameplay features and the UK map to technical requirements and multiplayer mode. You will also learn about hidden features that will make your passage even more exciting. If you're on the fence about whether this game is worth your time, read on!
Plot and setting: why Great Britain?
Unlike previous parts of the series, where the action took place in the USA, Australia and Italy, Forza Horizon 4 takes players to UK. The developers have recreated real landscapes: from the hilly roads of the Cotswolds to the city streets of Edinburgh. Feature of the game - dynamic change of seasons, which affects not only the visual design, but also the physics of cars.
The plot, as in other parts of the series, is not the key feature, but it is organically integrated into the process. You play as a racer who participates in a festival Horizon - a large-scale event with hundreds of competitions. Your goal is to become the best by earning influence points and unlocking new opportunities. Unlike linear racing simulators, there is no strict sequence: you choose which races to complete.
- 🌍 Real locations: The game features landmarks such as Stonehenge, Edinburgh Castle and Loch Ness.
- 🌦️ Change of seasons: Each week in the game brings a new season, changing racing conditions (snow in winter, rain in autumn).
- 🏁 Horizon Festival: the main hub where all the racers gather, here you can get new tasks and upgrade your cars.
Gameplay: arcade or simulator?
Forza Horizon 4 - this is arcade racing simulator with an emphasis on accessibility and entertainment. Unlike Forza Motorsport, where the physics are as realistic as possible, here the controls are simplified, but at the same time remain deep. The game offers several difficulty modes:
- 🎮 Simplified: Suitable for beginners, the car brakes itself before turns.
- 🏎️ Sim arcade: balance between realism and accessibility (recommended for most players).
- 🔧 Realistic: all assistants are disabled, physics is close to Forza Motorsport.
Gameplay feature - open world, where you can freely drive around the map, participate in street races, or simply explore the surrounding area. There are more in the game 700+ cars from different manufacturers, each of which can be tuned to suit your preferences. The system deserves special attention Skill Points: for performing tricks (drifts, jumps, collisions) you get points that you spend on upgrades.
⚠️ Attention: In the "Realistic" mode, revmotr (automatic braking) is disabled, so get used to braking in advance before turns, otherwise you risk flying off the track.
If you have difficulty steering at high speeds, try turning on Brake-gas (ABS) in assistant settings. This will make it easier to corner without losing control.
Graphics and technical requirements in 2026
Even though the game was released in 2018, its graphics still look impressive thanks to technology Dynamic Resolution Scaling and support 4K HDR.Britain in Forza Horizon 4 alive: the grass sways in the wind, puddles reflect the world around them, and the lighting changes depending on the time of day. However, for maximum quality you will need powerful hardware.
| Parameter | Minimum Requirements | Recommended Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 10 (1809) | Windows 10/11 (latest updates) |
| Processor | Intel i3-4170 / AMD FX-6300 | Intel i7-3820 / AMD Ryzen 5 1600 |
| Video card | NVIDIA GTX 650 Ti / AMD R7 250X | NVIDIA GTX 1070 / AMD RX 580 |
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| Disk space | 80 GB | 100 GB (with updates) |
On Ultra settings in resolution 1080p the game produces a stable 60 FPS on average PCs in 2023–2026. For 4K you will need a top video card like RTX 4070 or RX 7800 XT. It is also worth noting that Forza Horizon 4 well optimized for Xbox Series X|S, where it works in backwards compatibility mode with improvements.
How to enable 4K on Xbox Series X?
To enable 4K resolution in Forza Horizon 4 on Xbox Series X, go to Settings → Video → Resolution and select 4K UHD. Make sure that the console settings are also enabled 4K in section General → TV and Display Settings.
Multiplayer mode: how to play with friends?
One of the key advantages Forza Horizon 4 - developed online mode. You can compete with other players in the open world, create your own races, or join clubs. The mode is especially popular Team Adventure, where teams compete in various disciplines.
However, there are nuances:
- 🔄 Servers: Official online support from Microsoft will continue to work until 2026, but there are already lags during peak hours.
- 👥 Co-op mode: You can play in co-op with up to 4 people, but some tasks are designed for solo players only.
- 🏆 Rating races: To participate in them, a stable Internet connection (from 10 Mbit/s) is required.
⚠️ Attention: There are often cheaters online who use modified cars. To avoid unfair play, play in private sessions with friends or in official tournaments from the developers.
Update the game to the latest version|Check your internet speed (minimum 10 Mbps)|Set up your microphone for voice chat|Disable background programs that consume traffic-->
Tuning and modifications: how to improve a car?
Tuning system in Forza Horizon 4 one of the deepest in the genre. You can improve not only technical characteristics (power, brakes, suspension), but also appearance: from painting to installing body kits. Rare parts that can be obtained for victories in special challenges are especially valuable.
Some tips for beginners:
- 🔧 Improve in a balanced way: Don't just maximize power - improve brakes and handling for stability on the track.
- 🎨 Vintage cars: some classic cars (eg Jaguar E-Type or Ford GT40) have unique bonuses in certain races.
- 💰 Saving credits: Don’t waste your money on cheap cars—it’s better to save up for rare models from auctions.
Available for advanced players settings editor, where you can fine-tune gear ratios, tire pressure and even aerodynamics. If you are not technically savvy, use the presets (Preset Tunes) that the game offers.
Best cars to start with - Honda NSX (2017) and Ford Mustang GT (2015). They are balanced in speed and handling, which is ideal for first races.
Additional Content: DLC and Updates
During its existence Forza Horizon 4 received many free and paid add-ons. Among the most popular:
- 🚗 LEGO Speed Champions: DLC with LEGO cars and a unique open map.
- 🏰 Fortune Island: an additional island with extreme tracks and new challenges.
- 🎁 Weekly updates: the developers regularly added new cars and events (until 2023).
Official updates stopped in 2026, but the community continues to support the game through mods (such as new cars or tracks). However, they can only be used offline, as they are prohibited online.
Pros and cons of Forza Horizon 4 in 2026
Even 6 years after release, the game has many advantages, but there are also disadvantages. Let's look at them in detail:
| Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|
| Huge open world with dynamic weather | Online servers are gradually losing activity |
| More than 700 licensed cars | Some races get repetitive |
| Excellent optimization even on average PCs | Lack of a new story (the plot is secondary) |
| Regular events from the community | DLC LEGO Speed Champions and Fortune Island sold separately |
If you're looking for a beautiful, fast-paced open world racing game... Forza Horizon 4 great choice. But if the competitive multiplayer scene is important to you, it's worth taking a closer look at newer projects, e.g. Forza Horizon 5.
FAQ: answers to popular questions
How much will Forza Horizon 4 cost in 2026?
The price of the game varies depending on the platform:
- Steam/Xbox Store: ~1,500–2,000 ₽ (with discounts up to 500 ₽).
- Game Pass: the game is available as a subscription Xbox Game Pass (from 300 ₽/month).
- Key sites: You can find it cheaper, but you risk running into unlicensed keys.
Is it possible to play on a weak PC?
Yes, but you have to sacrifice graphics. At minimum settings the game works even on integrated video cards (for example, Intel UHD 620), but FPS will be below 30. For a comfortable game it is recommended to at least GTX 1050 Ti or RX 560.
How to get rare cars?
There are several ways:
- Win them in
Wheelspins(roulettes for influence points). - Buy at auction (but prices for rare models can reach millions of credits).
- Perform special tests (e.g.
Barn Finds— search for abandoned cars).
Will Forza Horizon 4 still work after 2026?
Online support will officially end, but offline mode will remain available. The community can also run private servers (as was the case with Forza Horizon 3), but there are no guarantees.
What's the alternative to Forza Horizon 4 in 2026?
If you liked the gameplay, pay attention to:
- Forza Horizon 5 (Mexico, improved graphics, new content).
- The Crew 2 (USA, even larger open world, but less realistic physics).
- Need for Speed Unbound (stylish arcade racer with street racing).