Forza Horizon 6: Racing Into Japan — Everything We Know So Far

The Forza Horizon franchise is shifting gears once again — this time heading east. During the 2025 Tokyo Game Show, Microsoft and Playground Games officially revealed Forza Horizon 6, confirming the fan-favorite setting of Japan. With a 2026 launch window, this will be the most ambitious Horizon title yet, blending Japan’s unique car culture, diverse landscapes, and neon-lit cityscapes into one open-world celebration of speed.

A Dream Destination: Japan Confirmed

For years, fans have begged for a Japan-based Horizon map, and Playground Games is finally delivering. Early previews confirm a massive, detailed map spanning multiple Japanese regions — from Tokyo’s urban maze and coastal highways to Mount Fuji’s snow-topped passes and winding mountain roads perfect for drifting.

Developers say this world will feel more “alive and cultural” than ever before. Seasonal transitions, from spring’s cherry blossoms to winter’s heavy snowfall, will return — not just as visual changes but with new gameplay effects and events shaped by weather and temperature.

“We wanted to do Japan justice — it’s a country built for car lovers,” a Playground Games spokesperson told Xbox Wire.

Release Date, Platforms & Game Pass

Forza Horizon 6 is set to launch in 2026 on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC, with full Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass support from day one.

A PlayStation 5 version is also in development, marking the second Forza title to reach Sony’s console after Horizon 5. However, the PS5 release will come post-launch, giving Xbox and PC players an early start.

The Horizon Festival Evolves

The series’ signature Horizon Festival returns as the backbone of progression — but this time, it’s more personalized. Players will climb a new “Legend” system, building fame through street races, drift challenges, off-road events, and community stunts.

Expect hundreds of vehicles across every category — supercars, tuners, drift icons, JDM classics, and electric prototypes — each fully customizable with Forza’s trademark visual detail. Rumors suggest expanded car tuning, enhanced body kits, and the deepest photo mode yet.

Authentic Japanese Car Culture

Playground Games is reportedly working closely with Japanese automotive brands and cultural consultants to ensure authenticity. Expect to see fan-favorite makes like Nissan, Toyota, Mazda, Honda, and Subaru represented heavily — with nods to drifting, touge racing, and even modern tuner festivals.

Sound design and world ambience are also getting special attention. From neon reflections in rainy Tokyo streets to the echo of engines through narrow mountain tunnels, Horizon 6 aims to make you feel Japan at full throttle.

Returning Features — and What’s New

Here’s what’s confirmed or strongly hinted at so far:

• Dynamic Seasons 2.0 – deeper weather effects and map changes.
• Improved AI & traffic systems – making the world feel more alive.
• Crossplay multiplayer – across Xbox, PC, and eventually PS5.
• Enhanced graphics on Unreal Engine 5, featuring advanced lighting and reflections.
• Expanded event editor – allowing players to design custom routes and stunts.

Multiplayer will again include co-op convoy play, online showdowns, and community events tied to real-world car festivals.

Why Fans Are Hyped

Few franchises mix realism and fun like Forza Horizon. Set in one of the most requested locations in gaming, Horizon 6 combines the spirit of Japanese car culture with next-gen visuals and gameplay systems that push the series forward.

Players are especially excited about:

• The potential for true mountain drifting across Fuji’s slopes.
• Tuning culture and JDM representation.
• A map that balances dense city design with beautiful countryside roads.
• And, of course, seeing how Playground Games brings Japanese festivals, music, and style into the Horizon mix.

Featured image credit: store.steampowered.com