Redmond, Wash. — It’s been a challenging week for Xbox, particularly for those grieving the impact of significant layoffs affecting various teams, including the racing game division at Turn 10 Studios. Reports indicate that as much as 50% of Turn 10’s workforce was affected by the recent job cuts. The studio is best known for its work on the Forza Motorsport franchise and the ForzaTech engine that powers the series.
Amidst the fallout, former Turn 10 team member Fred Russell recently shared on social media that Forza Motorsport has been “shuttered.” However, Russell’s statements come not from recent experience within the studio but from his previous tenure at Turn 10. He claimed that while Forza Motorsport’s future seems uncertain, the Forza Horizon series is expected to proceed, with Turn 10 pivoting to lend support to Playground Games, which develops the Horizon franchise.
Sources familiar with the situation, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, clarified that there has been no formal cancellation of Forza Motorsport. While the future of the series remains in limbo, the possibility of its return is not entirely ruled out at this time. Forza Motorsport was rebooted just a year ago, and the series typically operates on alternating release cycles. This means the latest iteration of Forza Horizon is anticipated, with Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer hinting at a new release slated for 2026 during a recent showcase.
Turn 10’s reputation stems not only from its innovative racing mechanics but also from its robust player engagement. While current player numbers for Forza Motorsport remain undocumented, the Horizon series generally draws a larger audience. Following its PlayStation 5 release earlier this year, Forza Horizon secured a spot among the top-selling titles on the platform.
The appeal of Forza Horizon lies in its accessible gameplay and vibrant, open-world design, offering a lighter experience than the more serious motorsport simulation of its counterpart. Many players have expressed a preference for the more casual racing atmosphere that Horizon provides, highlighting its broader appeal compared to Forza Motorsport.
As speculation arises regarding what this shift will mean for existing players of Forza Motorsport, questions linger about the potential lack of future content and support for the game, which is less than two years old. Efforts to reach Microsoft for clarification regarding ongoing support have been made, and updates will follow if a response is provided.
While the week has been marked by uncertainty for Xbox and its players, the legacy of Turn 10’s contributions to the gaming community endures. Players reflect on their experiences with both Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon, acknowledging the creativity and passion that have gone into crafting these beloved titles. Whether this spells a new chapter for the studio or a temporary pause, fans remain hopeful for the future of their favorite racing games.