
Ahh, delisted digital video games. These things float around in the internet ether, accessible for owners to re-download on supported systems, but no longer purchasable on associated storefronts. However, that doesn't always stop platforms from accidentally advertising them, as has seemingly happened here with the Xbox app.
Browsing Reddit earlier today, we spotted an Xbox fan confused as to why they were being recommended Forza Horizon 3 to pick up and try out. The 2016 open-world racer was delisted back in September 2020, and hasn't been available to purchase on the Xbox Store since the date of its delisting.
Even so, Microsoft seemingly thinks this title is "tailored to your tastes" and worth a try, much to the frustration of said Reddit user. Jokes aside, it's been suggested that the Xbox backend hasn't quite differentiated between a delisted game and one that's readily available in this instance, with the recommendation tool then pushing out the Forza Horizon 3 Deluxe Edition to this user.
The good news is that, even though you can't buy this game digitally anymore (a disc copy is always an option on Series X of course), you can still download and play it if you owned the title prior to its delisting. And, despite some concerns about server closures last month, Playground Games fixed these issues, and Forza Horizon 3 remains playable at the time of writing.
Have you ever been recommended a delisted game on Xbox? Give us your thoughts on this strange pick from Microsoft down below.
[source reddit.com]
Comments 11
It would be nice if they rereleased it. They could port it to PlayStation at the same time so everyone is a winner.
System error but it is quite funny nonetheless
Wasn't it delisted due to licensing - these Racing games with real brands, real models etc need to 'pay' to use their trademarks, branding etc. Its illegal to 'profit' from anothers IP/branding so once a License expires, it means they cannot 'sell' anymore.
Most games have a 'shelf' life - they 'sell' well to begin with then drop off as newer games come out. The devs move on to 'sequels' and therefore its not worth paying for a licence on 'Old' games that are no longer 'selling', certainly not enough to recuperate the 'licensing' cost. Sequels too are generally offering the 'same' Game-play loop.
Physical games don't remain 'in print' forever. I bet they haven't printed FH3 for years now so you may not find the game 'new' anymore so relying on the used market for what is essentially 'delisted' (more 'discontinued' from a manufacturing perspective). Its already 'paid' for Licensing as retailers purchase 'stock' to sell to customers. Therefore the 'brands' have received money for using their trademarks.
Whilst it would be cool to still be able to purchase, I don't think it would be fair to sell without Ferrari, Porsche, Aston Martin etc getting ANYTHING or should I expect MS to keep paying for Licences when these games stop selling enough to cover those costs. That would seriously impact on them being able to make 'sequels' and invest in 'new' games.
This is the one Forza Horizon title I'd love them to relist just so I can buy the DLC - I also think its the best one(haven't played 5). I bought the Ultimate edition and it doesn't have the DLC
At least FH4 Ultimate included everything.
I suspect it meant to say FH5 but I guess the guy / girl that was editing the program missed a beat lol.
I often get recommendations for games that are not sold in the area, which is typical of Xbox.
Behold! The power of artificial ‘intelligence’.
Let me guess, it all AI generated so it has no idea what it actually offering. I have personally been offered a "deal" on a game that I already own, just brilliance.
“We think you’d enjoy ‘MARVEL ULTIMATE ALLIANCE’!”
“Kiss my……”
I'm sure it's nothing more than a simple error, but it would be nice to see a remake / remaster of some of the older Horizon titles. FH1 is 15 in 2027, they could rename is Horizon Colorado, and make some simple tweaks to modernise the game with features from newer games. Would sell well, and be nice to see. Would be an obvious slam dunk to do, which is the exact reason I have no hope of it happening
The wonders of algorithms and AI! I see Apple is already in some trouble for their news AI incorrectly announcing people are dead as well as other falsehoods.
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