Microsoft has released a good number of first-party titles for the PlayStation 5 by now, but the one they released recently might arguably be the biggest one yet. Forza Horizon 5 is now officially available on Sony’s console, and it’s an absolute stunner. What was once thought impossible – seeing Microsoft’s flagship racing franchise on a PlayStation system, is now a reality, and it couldn’t have arrived in better form.
Set in a vibrant and sprawling open-world version of Mexico, Forza Horizon 5 offers a breathtaking driving experience that has been widely praised since its original launch. On PS5, players are not only getting the massive base game but also its two major expansions: Rally Adventure and Hot Wheels. Both add substantial new content, offering players more off-road challenges and crazy, rollercoaster-like racing tracks respectively.
If that wasn’t enough, the PS5 version also benefits from the Horizon Realms update, which brings with it a curated collection of the community’s favorite “Evolving Worlds” from past seasons, alongside some brand-new surprises. This ensures that newcomers on PS5 will be stepping into one of the richest and most polished versions of the game to date.
PS5 vs Xbox Series X Comparison
There is very little to choose here. The base PS5 version and the Xbox Series X build are literally similar to each other. Both versions feature two modes: Performance and Quality.
The performance mods on the PS5 targets 60 frames per second with a dynamic 4K resolution, just like the Xbox Series X version. This is our favorite way to experience Forza Horizon 5 on the PS5. Sleek 60fps with excellent visuals will likely be the best way to play for most PS5 owners out there.
For those who prefer higher image quality but with a hit to the frame rate, can opt for the quality mode. This mode delivers 30fps with a native 4K resolution with super image quality and sharpness.
The developers have done a phenomenal job of keeping the PS5 version tied up so closely to the Xbox Series X build. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with either.
PS5 Pro vs PS5 Head to Head Comparison
The PS5 Pro version is where things are shifted a notch above the base console versions. Like its older counterpart, the PS5 Pro version also includes two modes (Quality and Performance modes) but there are some noticeable improvements over the base PS5 version.
To begin with, the Performance mode in PS5 Pro runs at 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, giving it an immediate upper hand in image quality over the base PS5. The Quality mode is similar to the PS5’s mode, but it also adds ray tracing to the mix. Furthermore, the PS5 Pro version also features higher resolution textures and even more vegetation in the game’s world.
It’s clear the PS5 Pro version is heads and shoulders above the PS5 version (and also the Xbox Series X version) making it sit closer to a high-end PC gaming rig.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, wherever you play Forza Horizon 5, you are in for a treat. From excellent gameplay to gorgeous vistas, Forza Horizon 5 still holds up remarkably well almost four years later. The PS5 Pro version is clear the winner here thanks to its more powerful hardware but kudos to the development team for adding additional features for it. The PS5 version, too, does a great job in holding up against the Xbox Series X version in terms of performance and image quality.
Forza Horizon 5 is a technical stunner on all major platforms and a must play for all racing fans.
