Forza Horizon 2 for Xbox One Was Discounted Shortly After Launch
In November 2014, Amazon offered a 20% discount on Forza Horizon 2 for Xbox One, just one month after the open-world racing game's release.
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In early November 2014, Amazon listed the Xbox One version of Forza Horizon 2 with a 20% discount, reducing its price from the standard $59.99. This sale was notable as it occurred just over a month after the game’s launch on September 30, 2014. For a major first-party exclusive positioned as a key title for the holiday season, such an early price reduction was an uncommon opportunity for players.
The Post-Launch Sale Context
The discount on Forza Horizon 2 appeared on Amazon without a specific promotion name, though it coincided with the lead-up to the Black Friday shopping period. A 20% price drop brought the game to approximately $47.99, a significant saving on a new release. This move made the critically acclaimed racer more accessible to a wider audience on the Xbox One, which was still in its first year on the market. The sale was temporary and highlighted the competitive retail environment for console games at the time.
Game Features and Setting
Developed by Playground Games, Forza Horizon 2 expanded on the open-world formula of its predecessor. Set in a vibrant recreation of Southern France and Northern Italy, the game centered on the fictional Horizon Festival, a celebration of cars and music. It launched with over 200 cars and featured integrated online multiplayer, allowing players to join friends in “Online Road Trips” or “Online Free Roam” sessions without lobbies. The game was praised for its visuals, extensive car list, and the introduction of a dynamic weather system and a full day-night cycle. The Drivatar system, carried over from Forza Motorsport 5, populated the single-player world with AI opponents whose behavior was based on the driving data of real players.
Recommended Racing Wheels
Forza Horizon 2 was fully compatible with racing wheel peripherals, which offered a more immersive experience than the standard Xbox One controller. For enthusiasts seeking realism, the Mad Catz Pro Racing Force Feedback Wheel and Pedals was a premium option. Its force feedback motor simulated the forces of the road and the car’s handling, providing detailed tactile information to the driver. For players on a tighter budget, the Thrustmaster VG Ferrari 458 Spider Racing Wheel was a popular entry-level choice. While it lacked force feedback, it provided the essential wheel and pedal setup for more precise steering and throttle control than an analog stick and triggers could offer.
Frequently asked questions
When was Forza Horizon 2 released?
Forza Horizon 2 was released for Xbox One and Xbox 360 on September 30, 2014, in North America. The game was developed by Playground Games for the Xbox One version, while Sumo Digital handled the Xbox 360 port. The two versions featured different game engines and content.
What was the setting for Forza Horizon 2?
The game is set in an open-world environment based on Southern Europe, specifically Southern France and Northern Italy. Players could drive freely between scenic coastal roads, vineyards, and cities like Nice and Castelletto. The map was significantly larger than that of the original Forza Horizon.
Can you still buy Forza Horizon 2 digitally?
No, Forza Horizon 2 and its DLC were removed from the Microsoft Store for digital purchase in September 2018. This delisting is common for the Forza series, typically occurring four years after launch due to expiring music and car licensing agreements. Physical copies remain available.
What was the Drivatar system in Forza Horizon 2?
The Drivatar system used cloud-based AI to populate the game's world with opponents that mimicked the driving styles of real players. This meant that AI racers behaved more unpredictably and human-like than traditional AI, creating a more dynamic and challenging single-player experience.