Allow Pre-Selecting Up to Three Cars per Multiplayer Session (One per Race)

SHUB Archive FH5 Features Multiplayer / Online
1

Summary

In Horizon Open multiplayer, each session consists of three races, and the three tracks are already revealed before the session starts.
However, players are currently forced to lock in a single car for all three races, which unintentionally reinforces meta cars and discourages strategic variety.

I propose allowing players to pre-select up to three cars at the start of a session (one per race), with duplicates allowed, while keeping the rest of the system unchanged.

Current Situation

  • One multiplayer session = 3 races

  • All 3 tracks are already visible before the session begins

  • Players must choose one car, which is locked for all three races

This design provides track information but does not allow players to act on that information strategically.

Proposed Change

At the start of a multiplayer session, allow players to:

  • Select up to three cars, assigned to Race 1, Race 2, and Race 3

  • Duplicates are allowed (players can select the same car for all three races)

  • If players select only one car, it is automatically used for all races (current behavior)

No changes during races.
No car selection screens between races.

Why This Works

  • No added complexity for casual players

    • Players who want the current experience can simply pick one car and play as usual

  • Optional depth for experienced players

    • Players who want to adapt to track characteristics can do so

  • Reduces meta dominance without banning cars

    • Meta cars are still usable, but no longer the only optimal choice for all three races

  • Makes track preview information meaningful

  • Improves car variety naturally, without restrictions

New Player Friendly

  • New players with limited car collections are not disadvantaged

  • No forced restrictions

  • No “wrong choice” penalty across all races

  • Same UX flow as current system, just with additional optional slots

Minimal Risk, Minimal UI Changes

  • Car selection already exists at session start

  • This only adds additional slots, not new systems

  • Session flow and pacing remain intact

Conclusion

This change:

  • Preserves accessibility

  • Adds optional strategic depth

  • Encourages car variety

  • Avoids balance-heavy restrictions or car bans

It builds on systems that already exist and improves multiplayer decision-making without disrupting casual play.

2

Wouldn’t the meta car choice still be ya know, meta regardless?