Playground Games Lose a Key Figure Despite Immense Forza Horizon 5 Success

Developer on the Forza series and Studio Director of Playground Games, Gavin Raeburn, has left the team. The shocking announcement came from Microsoft, sharing the news of his exit from Playground. It is quite surprising to see Playground Games’ co-founder Gavin leave the studio, despite the immense success of the recent installment, Forza Horizon 5.

The title made a huge impression on the gaming community last year, despite its late release in November. The sports-racing title not only became one of the best-selling Microsoft games but also the best-rated title of 2021 as well. In its success, there was also a major contribution of Gavin Raeburn.

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Forza Horizon 5 developer Gavin Raeburn leaves Playground Studio

Former director Gavin Raeburn co-founded Playground Games in 2009. Before coming to Playground, however, the veteran developer was a part of Codemasters’ highly popular series, Dirt and Grid. But he has definitely left the company on a high note, especially considering the success of Forza Horizon 5. The award-winning game has been insanely breathtaking in terms of amazing gameplay visuals.

Talking about Gavin leaving the studio, the news came straight from Microsoft’s CVP of Forza and Fable, Alan Hartman. In a statement he said:

“After 12 years working on five award-winning Forza Horizon games, Gavin Raeburn is leaving Playground Games as Studio Director. A founding member of Playground Games, we thank Gav for his leadership and contributions to the Forza franchise and wish him all the best.” 

Meanwhile, after Raeburn’s exit, another Playground co-founder Trevor Williams will become the new Studio Director immediately. Previously, he was the General Manager.

Speaking of Forza Horizon 5, it was 2021’s most well-received game on Metacritic, with a stellar score of over 90. Under a month of its release, it engaged over 10 million players, thanks to an immersive gameplay. The open world style and variety of accessibility options make it a must-try for anyone wanting to have great racing experience.

Forza Horizon 5 is now available worldwide for Xbox Series X and Series S, and PC.

What are your thoughts on Forza Horizon 5 from Playground Games? Have you played it since its debut a few months ago? If yes, then do share your reactions.

Let us know in the comments section below.

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