Xbox is kicking off 2025 with an exciting neon-themed update for Forza Horizon 5, aptly named “Midnight Muscle.” Set to launch on January 28, this update is packed with fresh content such as new cars, eye-catching decorations, time-limited events, and much more. It’s the first major content update for the year, and there are hints from Xbox that players have even more to look forward to in this open-world racing game.
For those who might not be aware, Forza Horizon 5 has been thrilling players since it came out on November 8, 2021. As the latest installment from Playground Games in the Forza Motorsport offshoot series, it lets players dive into the diverse Mexican landscape. Think of racing through myriad terrains, partaking in exhilarating Horizon Festival events, and amassing a fantastic collection of cars. Despite having been around for more than three years, there’s a buzz that Forza Horizon 5 might make its debut on the PS5 soon. Xbox has also promised that throughout 2025, gamers can expect an influx of new content, features, and cars via free updates.
Now, what exactly does this “Midnight Muscle” update entail? Dropping on January 28, it will reintroduce some fan-favorite components like longer night cycles and the vibrant Neon Airstrip and Drone Show which fans will recognize from Midnights at Horizons. Additionally, you’ll notice neon embellishments lighting up the Aeródromo en la Selva and various race locations. This update isn’t just about aesthetics. The Midnight Muscle Festival Playlist will be live until February 28, featuring two new muscle cars to unlock: the sleek 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock and the classic 1995 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R. Plus, keep an eye out for Neon Tank Photo Decorations during Photo Challenges, and don’t miss the Neon Cube Collectible, which will be ready for you to find and smash during the fourth week of the festival at the Horizon Street Scene Outpost.
What’s more, Forza Horizon 5 is introducing a new cinematic start screen feature. Players will now be able to choose from a lineup of cinematic intros from previous Forza Horizon games, including nostalgic ones like the Colorado Horizon Festival start screen from the original game. Among other new selections, players can choose the Italian Automotive and Horizon Retrowave themes, making it a total of seven start screen options.
And let’s not forget, from January 30 to February 28, voting opens in the “Playlist Vote” section—it’s replacing the “Coming Soon” tab. During this period, players can weigh in on whether they want the Italian Automotive or High Performance Festival Playlists to make a comeback in March 2025. Just like previous updates, the playlist receiving the majority of votes will be accompanied by a significant update.
Lastly, the Midnight Muscle update also delivers much-needed fixes to earlier issues. The update addresses bugs like the sequence of car purchases in the Backstage Shop and cosmetic glitches for the 1971 Nissan Skyline 2000 GTR along with the 2014 Ford UTE. These updates should ease the gameplay for collectors and those digging into the main storyline of Forza Horizon 5.
