Microsoft and Playground Games have officially confirmed that Forza Horizon 6 will arrive in 2026, marking one of the most anticipated launches in the racing game genre. The announcement came during the Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2025 keynote, where fans got a glimpse of what’s next for the iconic open-world racing series. This time, players will take the wheel across the stunning landscapes of Japan, from neon-lit Tokyo streets to winding mountain passes under blooming cherry blossoms.
Forza Horizon 6 Revealed: The Long-Awaited Japan Setting
The short Forza Horizon 6 teaser trailer doesn’t reveal much about gameplay, but it offers exciting hints for eagle-eyed fans. It begins with nostalgic references to past Forza Horizon locations — from Colorado and France to Italy, Australia, the UK, and Mexico — before unveiling a Maneki-neko figurine, signaling the Japanese setting. The trailer concludes with breathtaking visuals of Mount Fuji, iconic cherry blossoms, and vibrant city lights, confirming that the next Horizon adventure will unfold in Japan.
Developer Insights: Why Japan Is the Perfect Fit for Forza Horizon 6
Don Arceta, Art Director at Playground Games, shared that Japan has been “top of Horizon fans’ wish lists for years.” He added:
“Japan has such a unique culture — from cars, to music, to fashion — that make it perfect for the next Horizon setting. As with any Horizon title, we want to make sure we do the country justice in terms of authentic representation and Horizon open-world playability.”
This statement confirms the team’s commitment to authentic cultural representation and environmental diversity. Expect a realistic blend of urban and natural landscapes, showcasing both Tokyo’s bustling city life and the tranquil countryside.
Exploring Japan: What Players Can Expect
Forza Horizon 6 aims to capture Japan’s legendary car culture and scenic beauty. Fans can look forward to exciting gameplay elements such as:
- Drifting Events: Inspired by Japan’s rich drifting heritage and popular car tuning scene.
- Customization Options: Deep vehicle modification systems reflecting Japanese street style and performance culture.
- Scenic Exploration: Drive through Tokyo, Kyoto, Mount Fuji, and rural mountain roads.
- Cultural Details: Traditional temples, seasonal weather effects, and music inspired by modern Japanese beats.
This approach could redefine what open-world driving games can deliver, merging realism, atmosphere, and freedom in ways fans have always wanted.
Forza Horizon 6 Platforms, Release Date, and Game Pass Details
Playground Games confirmed that Forza Horizon 6 will launch in 2026 for Xbox Series X/S and Windows PCs. It will be available day-one on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass, allowing subscribers to jump in at no extra cost.
The studio is also working with Turn 10 Studios to bring the title to PlayStation 5 after its initial release. This move follows the success of Forza Horizon 5 PlayStation debut, which quickly became one of the best-selling racing titles on the platform in 2025. It marks a major shift in Microsoft’s cross-platform strategy, expanding the Horizon experience to more players than ever.
The Future of the Forza Horizon Franchise
The shift to Japan represents more than just a new map—it’s an evolution of the Horizon identity. After exploring Europe, Australia, and Mexico, Japan offers a new playground filled with technical mountain roads, dense cityscapes, and distinct car traditions. Industry analysts predict that Forza Horizon 6 could set a new benchmark for next-gen open-world driving games, leveraging advanced ray-tracing, AI-enhanced weather, and photo-realistic visuals powered by the latest Xbox and PC hardware.
Conclusion
Forza Horizon 6 is shaping up to be a landmark release in 2026. With a rich Japanese setting, immersive car culture, and next-generation visuals, it promises to deliver the most dynamic and authentic Horizon experience yet. Whether you’re a drift fan, a collector, or simply love open-world adventures, this upcoming title is worth keeping an eye on.
FAQs About Forza Horizon 6
Q1: When will Forza Horizon 6 be released?
A: The game is set to launch in 2026 for Xbox Series X/S and PC, with a later release on PlayStation 5.
Q2: Will Forza Horizon 6 be available on Game Pass?
A: Yes, it will be a day-one release for both Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers.
Q3: What locations will be featured in Forza Horizon 6?
A: Players can explore Tokyo, Mount Fuji, and other iconic Japanese regions, featuring a mix of city streets and natural landscapes.
Q4: Can we expect drifting and car customization?
A: Definitely. The game will highlight Japan’s drifting culture and introduce expanded customization features for car enthusiasts.
Q5: Where can I check Forza Horizon 5 reviews?
A: You can read Forza Horizon 5 reviews on OpenCritic to see how the previous game performed.
