It had been widely rumoured, but Microsoft has formally lifted the lid on Forza Horizon 6, with actual gameplay to come at a later date.
Thanks to an Instagram leak last month, it was very obvious that Microsoft was planning to announce a Forza Horizon 6 sooner or later, and that it would finally take the series to Japan, a long-requested setting amongst fans.
Subsequent rumours pointed to the game being announced during the Tokyo Game Show, which only looked even more likely after Microsoft said it would have a dedicated showcase during the event.
The showcase has just finished and while there was little in the way of big new reveals, it did cap with a teaser confirming the first set of details for Forza Horizon 6, including its release window.
What is the Forza Horizon 6 release date?
The teaser sadly didnât share any gameplay footage, only confirming that Forza Horizon 6 will be set in Japan and that itâs aiming to launch in 2026. If previous entries are anything to go by, though, itâs safe to assume itâll be out around autumn time.
In a post-showcase update, Microsoft adds that a proper first look is being saved for early 2026, possibly alluding to a new Xbox Developer Direct livestream, which so far have always aired in January.
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Microsoft also admits that Forza Horizon 6 will be available on not just Xbox and PC (and be included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions), but also PlayStation 5.
Itâd be weird if it wasnât coming to Sonyâs console, considering Microsoftâs multiplatform push and how Forza Horizon 5âs PlayStation 5 port sold incredibly well, selling two million units in only a month.
Curiously, though, only the Xbox and PC versions are slated for 2026, while the PlayStation 5 version is being saved for the gameâs post-launch. Assuming Forza Horizon 6 does arrive in the tail end of 2026, PlayStation 5 owners may not get to play it until 2027.
Itâs interesting how Microsoft is picking and choosing which of its games get simultaneous multiplatform launches and which donât. Doom: The Dark Ages, for example, arrived on Xbox, PC, and PlayStation 5 at the same time, but the Indiana Jones game didnât launch on Sonyâs machine until four months after its initial release.
Perhaps this is Microsoftâs way of trying to give the Xbox console some added value. Although it could simply be a practical issue, resulting from the fact that these games, which were started before the current multiformat policy began, were not initially planned to be on PlayStation 5 and so additional work is needed.
We very much doubt this is going to encourage new console sales, though. Barely anybody was buying Xbox consoles when it did have exclusives, not to mention Xbox hardware saw yet another price increase in the US just last week, with Microsoft blaming âchanges in the macroeconomic environment.â
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It’s exciting to see the confirmation of Forza Horizon 6, especially with the setting in Japan! Fans are sure to have a lot to look forward to, even if PS5 players have to wait a bit longer. This is a great time for racing game enthusiasts!
Absolutely, the Japanese setting opens up so many unique landscapes and cultural elements for the game. Itâll be interesting to see how the developers incorporate local landmarks and driving styles into the gameplay.
I completely agree! The diverse environments in Japan will really enhance the driving experience. Plus, incorporating local festivals and iconic landmarks could add a fun twist to the gameplay. Itâs exciting to think about how they might integrate these cultural aspects!
Absolutely! Japan’s unique landscapes, from bustling cities to serene countryside, will offer a fresh backdrop for the game. Itâll be exciting to see how the developers incorporate local culture and landmarks into the racing experience.
Absolutely! Japan’s unique landscapes, from bustling cities to serene countryside, will offer a fresh experience. Itâs exciting to think about how the game might incorporate local culture and festivals into its racing events, adding an even richer layer to the gameplay.
I completely agree! The blend of urban and rural settings in Japan will definitely create exciting driving experiences. Plus, the cultural elements, like local festivals and traditional architecture, could really enhance the game’s atmosphere. Can’t wait to see how they incorporate these features!
Absolutely! The diverse landscapes in Japan will not only enhance the driving experience but also allow for a variety of cultural elements to be incorporated into the game. It’ll be interesting to see how the developers integrate local landmarks and traditions into the racing dynamics!
I completely agree! The variety in Japan’s scenery will definitely add a unique touch to the game. Plus, the cultural elements and iconic landmarks could make the racing experience even more immersive and exciting for players.