Forza Horizon 6 to be set in Japan, will debut next year: here's what we know

Playground Games has officially revealed that the upcoming Forza Horizon 6 will take place in Japan, with a scheduled release in 2026. This exciting announcement was made during the Tokyo Game Show 2025, which was broadcast by Xbox. Alongside the news, Microsoft unveiled a teaser trailer, though it refrained from showcasing any gameplay specifics. Players can now add Forza Horizon 6 to their wishlists on both Xbox and Steam. The developers promised that more information about the game will be unveiled in the coming year. Set against the backdrop of Japan, players will experience the vibrant streets of Tokyo as well as the tranquil beauty of the country’s rural landscapes and mountainous regions. Don Arceta, the Art Director for Forza Horizon 6, expressed enthusiasm about the game's setting, stating, “For a long time, Japan has been top of Horizon fans’ wish lists, so we’re excited to finally be bringing this much-requested location to players in Forza Horizon 6.” To enhance the game's authenticity, Playground Games has engaged a cultural consultant to ensure a respectful representation of Japan and to avoid stereotypes related to its environment. Since the release of Forza Horizon 4, the franchise has been known for its dynamic open-world environments that change with the seasons. This tradition is set to continue with Forza Horizon 6. Arceta explained the significance of seasonal changes in Japan, noting their profound impact on the landscape and cultural context. Kyoko Yamashita, the cultural consultant for the game, elaborated on the immersive experience, stating, “The team has also been able to build a system where seasonal changes truly inform the world – how spring, summer, autumn, and winter subtly shift tone, activity, and sound.” Forza Horizon 6 will initially launch on Xbox consoles and PC in 2026, mirroring the release strategy of its predecessor. Playground Games is also collaborating with Turn 10 Studios to potentially bring the game to PlayStation 5 after its initial launch.