Forza Horizon Reveals a Surprising Connection to Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4

May 15, 2026 - 01:11

A recent behind-the-scenes story from car photographer and Forza Horizon NPC Larry Chen has uncovered an unexpected link between the racing franchise and the classic skateboarding game Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4. Chen, who appears as a non-playable character in the latest Forza Horizon title, shared details about his friendship with professional skateboarder and photographer Atiba Jefferson, and how that relationship influenced both games.

Jefferson, known for his work in skate culture and photography, was a key figure in the development of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4. According to Chen, the same creative energy and attention to detail that Jefferson brought to that iconic skateboarding game also found its way into the Forza Horizon series. Chen explained that Jefferson's approach to capturing motion and style in skateboarding translated surprisingly well into the world of open-world racing.

The connection goes deeper than just shared collaborators. Both games prioritize a sense of freedom, style, and player expression. In Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4, players could explore levels at their own pace and pull off creative tricks. Forza Horizon offers a similar sandbox experience, letting drivers roam a vast map and perform stunts. Chen noted that the developers drew inspiration from the skateboarding game's philosophy of rewarding player creativity over strict linear progression.

Fans of both franchises have reacted with excitement to this revelation. It highlights how seemingly different genres can influence each other in unexpected ways. The shared DNA between these two beloved games shows that great design principles, like encouraging exploration and personal style, can work across any medium. Chen's story adds a new layer of appreciation for both titles, reminding players that the people behind the games often share more in common than the games themselves might suggest.