Forza Horizon 5 on PS5 Will Require a Microsoft Account – Here’s What You Need to Know

As Forza Horizon 5 prepares to make its PlayStation 5 debut on April 29, 2025, new details have emerged about how the game will function on Sony’s platform. One of the biggest revelations is that players will be required to link a Microsoft account to their PlayStation Network (PSN) ID in order to play the game.

While this move isn’t entirely unexpected—given Microsoft’s ownership of the Forza franchise—it has sparked discussion among PlayStation users about mandatory account linking, cross-platform integration, and the future of Microsoft-published games on PS5.

Why Does Forza Horizon 5 Require a Microsoft Account on PS5?

🔹 Cross-Platform Ecosystem – Forza Horizon 5 is deeply integrated into the Xbox ecosystem, meaning features like leaderboards, online events, and progression tracking require a Microsoft account to function.

🔹 Online Multiplayer & Features – Linking a Microsoft account ensures access to cross-platform multiplayer, seasonal events, and online marketplace content.

🔹 Game Ownership & Cloud Saves – Even though cross-save won’t be supported between PlayStation and Xbox/PC, Microsoft account integration allows players to keep track of achievements, purchases, and game stats across devices.

What Does This Mean for PlayStation Players?

Mandatory Microsoft Account Linking

📌 Every PS5 player must link a Microsoft account to their PSN account to access the game.
📌 Once linked, the Microsoft account cannot be changed or unlinked for Forza Horizon 5 on PS5.

No Cross-Save or Progression Transfers

🚫 Progress from Xbox and PC versions will NOT carry over to PlayStation.
🚫 Players starting on PS5 must begin from scratch, with no ability to transfer saved data from other platforms.

PlayStation Plus Required for Multiplayer

🎮 Multiplayer will require an active PlayStation Plus subscription—just like any other online game on PS5.