The critically acclaimed racing title, Forza Horizon 5, is making its way to PlayStation 5, and pre-orders are now open for the Standard, Deluxe, and Premium editions. While the arrival of this Xbox flagship on a rival platform is a significant event, the accompanying pre-order bonuses have stirred up a divided response within the gaming community.

Each edition comes with a welcome bundle, granting players in-game currency (#Forzathon Points), Backstage Passes (used to unlock iconic cars), and a free 2021 Mercedes-AMG ONE. The Premium Edition also offers four days of early access, a curious perk given the game's 2021 release date. This unusual circumstance allows a select group of players to experience a semblance of early access to a game already enjoyed by millions.

Playground Games has detailed the PS5 enhancements players can anticipate. In an official blog post, the developers outlined the welcome bundle, emphasizing its availability to all pre-orders regardless of the chosen edition.  The inclusion of #Forzathon Points and Backstage Passes, while useful, has been met with some criticism due to their accessibility through regular gameplay. The early access benefit of the Premium Edition has also been questioned, considering the established player base and existing content.

The reaction to the pre-order bonuses has been somewhat lukewarm. Many players argue the included items lack substantial value, given their potential to be acquired through normal gameplay progression.  The early access, while a unique offering, hasn't entirely convinced players to opt for the Premium Edition's higher price point.  It's worth noting that these bonuses are included at no extra cost, potentially explaining their perceived basic nature.

Beyond the pre-order discussion, another point of contention revolves around the absence of a physical release. Some fans have voiced disappointment at the lack of a physical disc option for PS5, considering it a missed opportunity for collectors and those who prefer tangible game ownership. Despite the mixed reactions to the pre-order bonuses, the overwhelmingly positive response to Forza Horizon 5's arrival on PlayStation 5 could signal a shift in the gaming landscape.

The potential for more Xbox exclusives to grace PlayStation consoles has become a topic of speculation, with franchises like Halo and Gears of War mentioned in online discussions. This move towards greater cross-platform availability could herald a more inclusive future for gamers, breaking down traditional platform barriers and expanding access to beloved titles.