The beloved arcade racing title, Horizon Chase Turbo, developed by Aquiris Games, will soon vanish from digital storefronts, including the Nintendo Switch eShop. This move, slated for June 1, 2026, has stirred conversations among the gaming community, with many pointing to Aquiris's acquisition by Epic Games in 2023 and subsequent layoffs as the probable cause. While current owners retain the ability to download the game, new acquisitions and additional content will become inaccessible, marking a significant shift for this critically acclaimed racer.
Horizon Chase Turbo's Digital Exit: Details and Implications
On a definitive date of June 1, 2026, the critically praised arcade racing game, Horizon Chase Turbo, along with its original iteration, will cease to be available for purchase on the Nintendo Switch eShop and other digital distribution platforms. This announcement came directly from the developer, Aquiris Games, via social media channels. While an official explanation for this discontinuation was not provided, the gaming community and industry analysts largely attribute the decision to the Brazilian developer's acquisition by Epic Games in 2023, followed by a recent wave of layoffs at Epic that reportedly impacted Aquiris. Despite the delisting, Aquiris has confirmed that players who have previously purchased the game will retain the right to redownload it from the eShop. However, all new purchases of the game and its associated downloadable content (DLC) will be halted after the specified date. Horizon Chase Turbo, which garnered an impressive 9/10 rating in 2018 for its vibrant gameplay reminiscent of classics like Out Run, has been a favorite among Switch users, making this news a considerable blow to its fanbase. Its successor, Horizon Chase 2, did not receive the same enthusiastic reception.
This situation casts a spotlight on the evolving landscape of digital game ownership and preservation. While the assurance that existing owners can still access their purchased content is a relief, the permanent removal of a highly-regarded title from sale raises important questions about game availability for future generations of players. It also underscores the potential fragility of digital libraries when corporate decisions or economic shifts impact developers. For enthusiasts of arcade racing, this serves as a poignant reminder to acquire desired digital titles and their expansions sooner rather than later, highlighting the transient nature of even the most acclaimed digital offerings in the current market.