Xbox App Suggests a Game No Longer Available

Xbox recently found itself in an unexpected scenario when it recommended a delisted game, Forza Horizon 3, to a user on its digital storefront. Even though the game hasn’t been available for purchase since it was taken down in 2020, Xbox still managed to highlight it to players based on their past gaming activities. It’s a bit puzzling when a game that’s no longer for sale pops up among personalized suggestions, but it does happen. Microsoft and Sony commonly suggest games and experiences aligned with a user’s tastes, yet Forza Horizon 3’s appearance raises eyebrows about how deeply ingrained it remains in the digital recommendations algorithm.

For nearly two decades, alongside iconic titles like Halo and Gears of War, the Forza racing franchise has been a staple of Microsoft’s console-exclusive offerings. The series debuted in 2005, and since then, Microsoft and its developer Turn 10 Studios have cultivated Forza into an internationally recognized brand. It took a new turn in 2012 with the introduction of Forza Horizon, a spin-off that gave players the freedom to roam expansive open worlds. Forza Horizon 3 was part of this shift, released in 2016, although it can’t be acquired new from online platforms anymore. Despite this, Xbox continues to occasionally recommend it to players.

Recently, a Reddit user shared their surprise at seeing Forza Horizon 3 pop up as a suggestion on Xbox. Although a popular choice among fans of the series, the game was no longer available for purchase as of September 2020 when it was officially delisted. This odd occurrence sparked lively discussions online, with some users joking about the oversight while others speculated on how the game could still appear despite its removal. One user, GabaMassa, humorously noted that the game logically shouldn’t show up in recommendations since it’s no longer for sale. Yet, they pointed out, those who previously bought it could still download it.

This theory seems plausible—though slightly odd. Although Forza Horizon 3 was removed from sales listings, those who owned it prior to delisting can still enjoy downloading and playing it on their Xbox consoles. Additionally, a physical copy functions correctly, thanks to Xbox Series X/S backward compatibility. Some fans grew concerned when key features of Forza Horizon 3 went offline earlier this year. However, Playground Games, the developer, reassured the community by essentially refreshing the game’s servers.

As the legacy of Forza Horizon 3 stands, Microsoft is excitedly expanding its presence. Breaking traditional boundaries, Xbox confirmed that Forza Horizon 5 is set to debut on PlayStation 5 this spring. This move signals Microsoft’s continued collaboration with external developers and publishers. It’s a major shift not only in availability but also in the gaming landscape, showing openness to cross-platform play, although we may be waiting a bit longer before iconic figures like Master Chief make their way to PlayStation as well.

In your virtual journey through Australia’s vast landscapes, from deserts to rainforests, Forza Horizon 3 allowed players to drive over 350 cars in meticulously detailed environments. Players had the freedom to customize their experiences, making each race event personal and competitive. Despite its digital delisting, the game remains a fond memory and a significant part of the Forza franchise legacy, continuing to fuel discussions about its lasting impact among gaming communities.