This title, released in late 2018, is a main entry in the racing genre, blending high-octane sport action with open-world adventure elements. Set against the backdrop of beautiful and historic Great Britain, the game centers around the Horizon Festival, an automotive celebration where players choose their own path to achieve superstar status. The core experience involves exploration, collection, modification, and driving a vast roster of over 450 vehicles across diverse landscapes. It is available on PC (Microsoft Windows) and Xbox consoles, including the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One platforms.

Core Gameplay and Setting

The game establishes a shared, open-world environment where players can engage in activities either solo or cooperatively with others. The primary gameplay loop revolves around participating in various racing disciplines, executing stunts, creating custom content, and freely exploring the meticulously detailed map of Britain. The atmosphere is centered on the excitement and freedom of the automotive festival lifestyle.

What is the defining feature of this racing experience?

The most significant mechanic that alters the gameplay experience is the introduction of dynamic, changing seasons. Every week, the entire world shifts, bringing changes to weather, road conditions, and available events. Spring brings rain, Summer introduces dry heat, Autumn features muddy terrain, and Winter covers the landscape in snow and ice. This constant environmental variation directly impacts vehicle handling and strategic route planning across the map.

Vehicle Collection and Customization

A major component of the progression system involves acquiring and personalizing an extensive garage of cars. Players can collect hundreds of licensed vehicles spanning various eras and manufacturers. Beyond simple driving, deep modification systems allow for extensive tuning and visual customization, enabling players to tailor their vehicles for specific race types or aesthetic preferences.

Additional Content Availability

For players seeking extended experiences beyond the base game, significant additional content has been released. This includes 2 major expansions that introduce entirely new areas and gameplay scenarios, alongside a substantial library of 31 smaller downloadable content packs, which typically introduce new vehicles or cosmetic items.

How does the game structure player progression?

Progression is non-linear, emphasizing player choice. Whether a player focuses on competitive circuit racing, off-road challenges, speed traps, or creative endeavors like designing custom races, all activities contribute toward the ultimate goal of becoming a Horizon Superstar within the festival ecosystem. The shared open world ensures that player activities are visible and interactive within the persistent online environment.