Forza Horizon 4 is Microsoft's next big racer and even if you don't have the Ultimate Edition for early access, prospective players can begin earning influence now.

Influence is what progresses you through the ranks of the Horizon Life, so the more you earn, the quicker you rank up and unlock new items and experiences. Here's how to get a head start on it, with the help of Microsoft's Mixer live streaming service.

How to earn Forza Horizon 4 influence on Mixer

Forza Horizon 4

You can earn influence in two ways: Streaming Forza Horizon 4 on Mixer yourself or watching other streamers playing the game. That's all it takes, but there are some caveats that need to be addressed.

Firstly, your Mixer account should be linked to the Microsoft Account which holds your Xbox Live profile. If you signed up recently then you've likely got this in place already, however, if your account was created in the old "Beam" days you may need to follow the below steps.

  1. Log in to Mixer.
  2. Click on Account.
  3. Navigate to Link Accounts under the "Settings" tab.
  4. Select Link your Microsoft Account.
  5. Follow the on-screen steps.

So long as you interact with Forza Horizon 4 streams on Mixer with this account you'll begin earning influence as you watch or stream the game. As you build influence, it will become available to you in-game at launch, however, not immediately. This key quote from the Mixer blog highlights some minor restrictions.

Notably, you'll have to spend a small amount of time unlocking the "Mixer" thread in the campaign – but once you do, all the influence you've accrued will be waiting for you!

To unlock the Mixer thread and begin earning your influence in-game you simply have to complete the initial four seasonal championships and qualify for the Horizon Roster. You'll then see a Mixer box open in the Horizon Life breakdown and it will tell you your current level, how much more influence until you level up again and what items you'll earn next.

Forza Horizon 4 Ultimate Edition owners can begin playing right now, with general release set for October 2.

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