Forza Horizon 5 is one of the most highly anticipated racing games in recent years. As an open-world racing game set in Mexico, it promises stunning graphics, realistic driving physics, and endless customization options. However, like most major AAA game releases, Forza Horizon 5 comes with a premium price tag. Purchasing the standard edition will cost you $59.99. So how can cash-strapped gamers get their hands on Forza Horizon 5 for free on PC?
The good news is that while the Forza Horizon series has traditionally been an Xbox exclusive franchise, Forza Horizon 5 is also launching on Windows 10/11 PCs. This opens up more options for PC gamers to play the latest Forza game without paying the full retail price.
Here are some of the best methods to install and play Forza Horizon 5 for free on your gaming PC:
1. Get Xbox Game Pass for PC
The easiest and most convenient way to play Forza Horizon 5 for free on PC is to subscribe to Xbox Game Pass for PC.
Xbox Game Pass is Microsoft‘s Netflix-style gaming subscription service that grants access to over 100 curated games for a monthly fee. Forza Horizon 5 will be available on Xbox Game Pass starting on November 9, 2021 – the same day as its global release date.
This means as an Xbox Game Pass subscriber, you can download and play the full version of Forza Horizon 5 on launch day without paying anything extra. A standard Xbox Game Pass for PC subscription costs $9.99 per month. However, for new subscribers, the first month is only $1 for a limited time promotion.
Some key benefits of using Xbox Game Pass to play Forza Horizon 5:
- Immediate access on release date
- Download directly from the Microsoft Store
- Play on both Xbox and PC
- Cancel subscription anytime
So for just $1, you can install and play Forza Horizon 5 for a month on launch day itself. If you enjoy the game, you can continue the standard $9.99 per month subscription.
2. Wait for Discounts on Microsoft Store
If you want to directly purchase and own Forza Horizon 5 forever instead of a temporary subscription, keep an eye out for discounts on the Microsoft Store for Windows.
The standard price for Forza Horizon 5 in the Microsoft Store is $59.99. However, major new releases on the Microsoft Store frequently see discounts around 10-20% off during special sales and deals.
Here are some potential opportunities to buy Forza Horizon 5 at a reduced price:
- Black Friday Sale (November 2021): The Microsoft Store typically hosts a major Black Friday sale which may include a discount on new releases like Forza Horizon 5.
- Holiday Sale (December 2021): Expect a holiday sale later in December with similar discounts on games.
- Seasonal Sales (2022 onwards): Forza Horizon 5 could see even bigger price cuts like 40-50% off during seasonal sales in 2022 after the initial launch window.
Adding the game to your wishlist on the Microsoft Store will let you receive notifications about upcoming sales and deals. Buying directly from the Microsoft Store guarantees you lifetime access for your Windows PC account.
3. Try the Forza Horizon 5 Demo
Before committing money to purchase Forza Horizon 5, you can try out the free demo to get a taste of the gameplay and graphics.
Microsoft has released an hour-long demo for Forza Horizon 5 that lets you race around a small portion of the open-world map. The demo is available exclusively on the Microsoft Store for Windows 10/11 PCs.
Some highlight features of the demo:
- Approx. 12GB download size
- Showcases visuals and physics
- Lets you drive multiple super cars
- Gives three 1v1 races to complete
- Chance to customize and upgrade cars
While your demo progress does not carry over to the main game, it‘s a free way to experience Forza Horizon 5 on your PC.
4. Wait for Steam Release in 2022
Here is an exciting option for patient PC gamers. While Forza Horizon 5 is exclusive to the Microsoft Store at launch, it will also be coming to Steam in 2022!
The Steam version unlocks opportunities like:
- Buy at launch discount: New games on Steam often see a 10-20% discount for the first few weeks.
- Take advantage of Steam sales: Forza Horizon 5 could be 50% off or more during Steam seasonal sales next year.
- Steam-exclusive features: Like guides, forums, achievements, and controller customization.
So if you‘re willing to wait, picking up Forza Horizon 5 during a Steam sale in 2022 could be your most cost-effective bet.
5. Use Microsoft/Xbox Rewards to Discount Game Pass
If you have time on your side, you can leverage Microsoft‘s rewards programs to earn discounts towards an Xbox Game Pass subscription.
Here are two options to rack up rewards points and redeem them to lower the cost of access to Forza Horizon 5:
A) Microsoft Rewards
Microsoft Rewards is a program that lets you complete simple activities like Bing searches, surveys, quizzes, etc to earn points. These points can be redeemed for:
- Xbox gift cards
- Discounts on Xbox Game Pass membership
- Entries into sweepstakes
With some consistent effort over a few weeks, you can easily earn a free month of Xbox Game Pass using Microsoft Rewards.
B) Xbox Rewards
For Xbox console gamers, Xbox Rewards is a similar program that gives you points for purchases and gaming activity. Some ways to earn:
- Buy Xbox games and DLC
- Earn achievements
- Complete quiz questions
These points can also be used to offset the price of an Xbox Game Pass subscription.
Between Microsoft Rewards and Xbox Rewards, you could potentially bring down the entry cost of playing Forza Horizon 5 close to zero!
In Conclusion
While Forza Horizon 5 is not free, there are many creative ways for budget-conscious gamers to enjoy this premium racing experience without paying full price. Options like trying Xbox Game Pass for just $1 or waiting for discounts and Steam release provide great opportunities.
Forza Horizon 5 is shaping up to be the most ambitious and stunning Horzion game yet. Don‘t miss out on taking your dream car for a thrilling ride across dynamic seasons in Mexico! With the tips above, you can now get Forza Horizon 5 installed and immersed in the race without breaking the bank. Start your engines on November 9!
