At the Xbox Developer Direct on January 22, 2026, Playground Games unveiled the latest installment in the Forza Horizon series, Forza Horizon 6. Set in Japan, the game features a vast open-world map, including a Tokyo cityscape five times larger than any previous Forza Horizon city. (support.forzamotorsport.net)
Career Progression Overhaul
Departing from the previous game's approach, Forza Horizon 6 introduces a fresh start for players. Players begin as tourists in Japan, aiming to join the Horizon Festival and showcase their racing skills. This reset emphasizes the importance of upgrading festival wristbands and participating in showcase events. (support.forzamotorsport.net)
EventLab Enhancements
The EventLab feature has been significantly improved, allowing players to access creative tools anywhere on the map and in multiplayer sessions. A notable addition is "The Estate," a large plot of land that players can customize and upgrade as they progress. (support.forzamotorsport.net)
Car Meets and Social Features
Inspired by Japan's Daikoku Parking Area, car meets in Forza Horizon 6 are now fully social activities. Players can gather, showcase their cars, challenge each other to races, and even purchase custom rides from one another. (support.forzamotorsport.net)
Generative AI Concerns
Some community members have expressed concerns over the potential use of generative AI in the game's artwork. A particular piece of in-game art has been identified as possibly AI-generated, raising questions about the authenticity of the game's visuals. Playground Games has yet to confirm the use of generative AI in Forza Horizon 6. (support.forzamotorsport.net)
Release Details
Forza Horizon 6 is scheduled for release on May 19, 2026, for Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC. A Premium Edition offers four days of early access, and a PlayStation 5 version is expected later this year. (support.forzamotorsport.net)
For more information, visit the official Forza Support page. (support.forzamotorsport.net)