Forza Horizon 6 Heading to Japan in 2026, Xbox First, PS5 Later

The highly anticipated racing game franchise, Forza Horizon, is officially heading to Japan for its sixth iteration, scheduled for release in 2026. This exciting news was unveiled by Microsoft during the Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2025 broadcast, much to the delight of fans worldwide. The announcement featured a concise teaser, artfully displaying elements from previous game locations before settling on a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji, framed by cherry blossoms, signifying the new setting.

While specific gameplay mechanics remain under wraps, an update on Xbox Wire from art director Don Arceta hinted at a more in-depth reveal in early 2026. Microsoft also clarified the game's release strategy: Forza Horizon 6 will initially be available on Xbox Series X and PC in 2026, with a PlayStation 5 edition to be launched subsequently. Arceta and cultural consultant Kyoko Yamashita detailed the meticulous research invested in crafting the Japanese environment, confirming that the map will encompass the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, complete with its intricate elevated road networks, alongside serene rural landscapes and mountainous regions like Mount Fuji. Yamashita emphasized the game's commitment to capturing Japan's distinctive car culture, highlighting the presence of Kei cars, a focus on precision motorsport, and the foundational elements of drifting, along with a deep appreciation for vehicle customization. The popular seasonal changes from previous titles will also make a return, enhancing the dynamic gameplay experience.

The Forza Horizon series has long been celebrated for its captivating virtual tourism, allowing players to explore beautifully rendered real-world locations. Despite earlier installments venturing to diverse locales such as the U.S. state of Colorado, the Mediterranean coast, Australia, Britain, and most recently Mexico, fans have consistently hoped for a Japanese setting since the series' inception in 2012. The five-year gap between Forza Horizon 5 and the upcoming Forza Horizon 6 marks the longest in the franchise's history, partly due to developer Playground Games' involvement in the long-awaited Fable reboot, also set for next year. Nevertheless, the series' popularity has only surged, with the PlayStation 5 version of Forza Horizon 5 becoming one of the top-selling games on the platform this year, a testament to its broad appeal. This success underscores the game's evolution from a spin-off of the Forza Motorsport circuit-racing games to a standalone phenomenon. With the 2026 Forza title confirmed as a new Horizon entry, players can now eagerly anticipate exploring the vibrant and diverse landscapes of Japan.

The journey of the Forza Horizon series, consistently pushing boundaries and delivering immersive experiences, reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence in game development. This upcoming installment in Japan not only fulfills a long-held desire among fans but also exemplifies how dedication to cultural authenticity and innovative gameplay can elevate interactive entertainment. It stands as a beacon of creative ambition, reminding us that with persistent effort and a keen eye for detail, truly remarkable virtual worlds can be brought to life, offering joy and discovery to millions.