Road Trip

Look: Forza Horizon 5 screenshots reveal 11 new biomes

Take a tour of Mexico

by Robin Bea
Xbox

Forza Horizon 5 takes the series to Mexico for the first time. According to the game’s developers, the country’s diversity of landscapes makes it perfect for FH5’s unique open-world racing.

With a map 50 percent larger than Forza Horizon 4’s, FH5 has a lot of space to fill. Xbox offered a glimpse at what players can expect with a July 26 preview of the game’s 11 gorgeous biomes.

Here are the 11 biomes you’ll be racing through in Forza Horizon 5

1. Arid Hills

The Arid Hills is a dry, hilly region (no surprises there) that includes a lake. In winter, the lake will dry up, revealing a new part of the map to drive through.

2. Canyon

The Canyon comprises several layers of rocky surfaces to drive along, leading down to a river at the bottom. In the Canyon, you’ll actually be able to hear sounds echo off the surrounding hills.

3. Farmland

Filled with rivers, trees, and vegetation, the Farmland has plenty of opportunities for off-roading. In Forza Horizon tradition, that also means plenty of opportunities to wreak havoc by crashing through fences.

4. Guanajuato

Modeled after an actual city in Mexico, Guanajuato is full of colorful buildings, public art, and tunnels to liven up your street races.

5. Jungle

An ideal biome for the most daring drivers, the Jungle is packed with trees and a few waterfalls. There are even temples dotted around the area, based on real-world landmarks.

6. Living Desert

Just like the name says, the Living Desert is a rocky, sandy region that’s nevertheless full of life. Flowers, animals, and giant saguaro cactuses make this region stand out.

7. Rocky Coast

The Rocky Coast offers a great view of the ocean, which will inevitably lead to you smashing headfirst into the rocky cliffs while trying to catch a glimpse of the waves.

8. Sand Desert

Seemingly the most open part of the map, the Sandy Desert gives you space to absolutely haul ass over the sand or along the region’s long, straight roads.

9. Swamp

The Swamp is sure to separate good racers from great ones, with tons of shallow water and thick mangrove tree roots to stop you in your tracks.

10. Tropical Coast

Nothing shows off Forza Horizon 5’s incredible water and sky effects like the Tropical Coast. This idyllic vacation spot transforms with the seasons, turning heavy rain and wind into your top opponent.

11. Volcano

Climb the towering Volcano and you’ll get to celebrate with a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The peak is the only spot in Forza Horizon 5 where you’ll need to break out the snow tires.

Forza Horizon 5 hits the streets on November 9, 2021 for Xbox and PC.