Playground Games, the British studio behind the acclaimed racing title Forza Horizon 5, has officially announced its latest content update, aptly named Back to the 90s. Set to launch on 10th October, this update promises to rekindle nostalgia among players by introducing a variety of 1990s-themed features, including four new reward cars, themed events, and a popular returning feature that has captivated the Forza community.
Since its release in November 2021, Forza Horizon 5 has garnered considerable acclaim, not only for its expansive open-world gameplay but also for the consistent support and content updates provided by Playground Games. Monthly updates have seen the introduction of new cars, game modes, and seasonal features that keep players engaged. However, the Back to the 90s update diverges from the typical seasonal themes that often accompany the October content drop, embracing instead the cultural phenomena of the 1990s.
The highlight of the upcoming update is undoubtedly the introduction of four iconic cars from the decade. Players can look forward to adding the Aston Martin Lagonda, Subaru SVX, Toyota Soarer 2.5 GT-T, and Mitsubishi FTO GP Version R to their virtual garages. These cars not only represent a significant era in automotive history but also cater to the nostalgia of long-time fans who remember the excitement of the 90s car culture.
In addition to the new vehicles, players will be able to participate in a specially curated Festival Playlist filled with 90s-themed challenges and events. New activities will include a search for VHS Collectibles, which hark back to an era when watching films on tapes was the norm. Additionally, players can unlock a unique 90s Cosmetic Outfit and earn three new Badges, allowing them to showcase their accomplishments within the game.
One of the most anticipated aspects of the Back to the 90s update is the return of Horizon Backstage. Originally featured in previous iterations of the Forza series, this beloved feature allows players to access reward cars that were previously restricted to earlier Festival Playlists. Starting from 10th October, players will initially have access to six cars through Horizon Backstage. Subsequently, the community will participate in weekly votes to determine which pair of cars will be featured next, creating an interactive element that encourages player engagement.
However, while the Back to the 90s update introduces several exciting elements, it is relatively modest compared to previous updates. Some players have expressed disappointment over the absence of 1990s music, a feature that would have perfectly complemented the nostalgic theme and followed the success of the Retrowave update released earlier. Nevertheless, the forthcoming update promises a variety of gameplay enhancements and bug fixes, ensuring a smoother experience for all players.
Update Highlights
The Back to the 90s update includes a range of new features and improvements, notably:
New Reward Cars:
- Aston Martin Lagonda (1990)
- Mitsubishi FTO GP Version R (1998)
- Subaru SVX (1996)
- Toyota Soarer 2.5 GT-T (1997)
Horizon Backstage:
- Rotating weekly car selections
- Player votes on featured pairs of cars
- Introduction of Backstage Passes, a new in-game currency required to obtain cars
- One Backstage Pass available as a Seasonal Reward each week, with an option to purchase another for 1,000 Forzathon Points
Initial Car Line-Up for Horizon Backstage:
- BMW M4 Competition Coupe (2021)
- Cadillac XTS Limousine (2013)
- Fiat 131 Abarth (1980)
- Mercedes-Benz 280 SL (1967)
- Pagani Huayra BC (2016)
- Rivian R1S (2022)
New Festival Playlist Additions:
- Themed challenges and events
- Introduction of a VHS Collectible
- 90s Cosmetic Outfit
- Three new Badges
Bug Fixes and Improvements:
- Resolution of issues with the 1994 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III GSR’s paint selection
- Fixes related to the Hide and Seek game mode
- General stability improvements and localisation corrections across multiple languages
As Playground Games continues to evolve Forza Horizon 5, the Back to the 90s update reflects the studio’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and engaging player experience. While this update may not introduce an overwhelming amount of new content, it successfully captures the spirit of the 1990s, allowing players to relive a formative decade in both gaming and automotive history.
Looking ahead, the community’s reaction to the inclusion of Horizon Backstage and the variety of 90s-themed content is likely to set the tone for future updates. As the Forza franchise progresses, fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how Playground Games integrates additional nostalgic elements, enhancing the already rich tapestry of Forza Horizon 5 and ensuring that it remains a staple in the racing game genre.
