Forza Horizon 6 Announced: Coming to PC, Xbox Consoles in 2026, Set in Japan
Microsoft has officially announced Forza Horizon 6, the next installment in the acclaimed open-world racing franchise. The reveal took place during the Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2025 broadcast, confirming that the game will release in 2026 on PC, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. A PlayStation 5 release is also planned, though the date has not yet been confirmed.
Long requested by fans since the series began, Japan will serve as the setting for Forza Horizon 6. Developed by Playground Games in collaboration with Turn10 Studios (developers of the Forza Motorsport series), the game will showcase the country’s unique cultural and environmental diversity.
Art Director Don Arceta and Cultural Consultant Kyoko Yamashita emphasized in the Xbox News post that Japan was chosen not only because of its popularity among fans but also because modern technology now makes it possible to authentically recreate its landscapes. The setting will blend traditional elements such as shrines with modern features like workshops, offering an immersive and authentic driving experience.
Forza Horizon 6 will also expand on the franchise’s dynamic season system, pushing immersion further than ever. Each season will have a dramatic impact on the environment, altering landscapes, activities, and even ambient audio cues that reflect the time of year. This will ensure players immediately recognize their surroundings and seasonal context, adding depth to exploration and racing.
According to Arceta, the system won’t just change visuals but will also inform gameplay and world interaction, making Japan feel alive and reactive to natural changes throughout the year.
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S (PlayStation 5 release confirmed later)
Release Window: 2026
Developers: Playground Games & Turn10 Studios
Forza Horizon 6 is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious entries in the series, delivering not just the fan-favorite Japanese setting but also enhanced seasonal systems, cultural authenticity, and next-gen visuals that highlight the beauty and variety of Japan.
What are you most excited to see in Forza Horizon 6? Drift culture in Tokyo streets, scenic drives through the countryside, or seasonal races across Japan’s diverse landscapes?
