A 4-Year-Old Xbox Game Hits the Top on PlayStation

Are the console wars coming to an end? Forza Horizon 5, Microsoft’s iconic racing game, which remained an Xbox exclusive for years, is now available on PlayStation 5, reaching millions of sales in just a few months, and it’s practically surging to the top of the platform. The fact that a four-year-old game has outpaced brand-new PS5 titles is a game-changer in the gaming world. This could be ushering in a new era for both Microsoft and Sony.

Why Was Forza Horizon 5 So Successful on Playstation 5?

The PS5 version of Forza Horizon 5 quickly sold over 3 million units. This success has propelled it to the top of the list of best-selling PS5 games of 2024. Furthermore, thanks to last month’s 25% discount, it even surpassed Sony’s own exclusives like Death Stranding 2 and Astro Bot.

For years, strategies that have instilled loyalty to console brands are giving way to cross-platform streaming. The arrival of Xbox exclusives on PlayStation surprised many gamers. However, these sales figures clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of this strategy.

Microsoft’s move also reflects its perceived lack of success in the current console generation. The PS5 is estimated to have sold 2 to 5 times more games than the Xbox Series X/S. This difference allows Microsoft to expand its reach to a wider audience rather than limiting its games to its own platform.

Going forward, this strategy is expected to continue. For example, Forza Horizon 6 could be available on PS5 from day one. While Xbox Game Pass remains a perk, Sony still isn’t bringing its first-party games to PS Plus on launch day. However, this new balance could lead to a more accessible and equitable gaming world for players.

Read More: The Keeper Trailer Has Been Released