At a Glance
- Forza Horizon 6 launches May 19 on Xbox and PC.
- Premium buyers receive early access on May 15.
- PlayStation 5 owners wait until later 2026.
- Why it matters: The game expands the franchise into a vibrant Japanese open-world, offering new mechanics, a massive car roster, and a fresh narrative.
The upcoming title Forza Horizon 6 promises a deep dive into Japan’s automotive culture, with a release set for May 19 on Xbox and PC. Premium Edition owners will start racing a few days early on May 15, while PlayStation 5 players will have to wait until later 2026 to enjoy the game.
Game Overview
Microsoft’s new entry in the Horizon series takes players to a sprawling open-world that mirrors Japan’s diverse landscapes. From cherry-blossom-strewn rural roads to neon-lit Tokyo streets, the game showcases the country’s iconic scenery. The first-look video highlighted:
- Rural roads covered in cherry blossoms
- Ice-enclosed courses in snowy regions
- Neon-lit streets of Tokyo
- Views of Mount Fuji
The player’s journey begins as a newcomer to Japan, guided by two close friends: motorsports fan Jordy and car builder Mei. The game’s narrative is built around exploring various districts, each with its own vibe.
Key Features
- 550 collectible cars available at launch, including the 2025 GR GT Prototype and the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser, which are featured on the cover.
- Eight player houses spread across Japan that act as fast-travel points.
- The Estate: a piece of land players can acquire and build on.
- Car Meets: social spaces where players can gather, race, and showcase their vehicles.
- Digital mementos journal inspired by stamp collecting, tracking progress and achievements.
Editions and Pricing
| Edition | Price | Early Access | Extra Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | $70 | No | None |
| Deluxe | $100 | No | Additional car packs |
| Premium | $120 | Yes (May 15) | Multiple car packs |
Premium Edition buyers gain early access on May 15 and receive several car packs that are not available in the Standard or Deluxe editions.
Release Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 15 | Premium Edition early access launch |
| May 19 | Full launch on Xbox and PC |
| Later 2026 | PlayStation 5 release |
The game will also be a Day-1 release on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and will be available on Steam and Xbox Cloud.
Open-World Design
The world is divided into districts, ranging from bustling urban areas such as Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing to suburbs, industrial docklands, and more rural regions. Each district offers unique racing events, scenery, and collectibles.
Narrative and Characters
Players take on the role of a new arrival to Japan, guided by Jordy and Mei. The storyline encourages exploration and interaction with local culture, providing a narrative backdrop to the racing experience.
Car Roster and Cover Cars
The launch lineup includes 550 collectible cars. Microsoft highlighted two cover cars:
- 2025 GR GT Prototype
- 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser
These vehicles represent the diversity of Japanese automotive design and performance.
Social Features
Car Meets will serve as social hubs where players can meet, race, and trade. The Estate allows players to build and customize their own land, adding a layer of creativity to the gameplay.
Availability
The game will launch on May 19 for Xbox and PC, with a Day-1 release on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. It will also be available on Steam and Xbox Cloud. PlayStation 5 owners will receive the game later in 2026.
Pricing Summary
- Standard Edition: $70
- Deluxe Edition: $100
- Premium Edition: $120 (early access on May 15)
These prices include the base game and any bundled content specific to each edition.
Takeaways
- Forza Horizon 6 expands the franchise into Japan, offering a rich open-world and a massive car roster.
- Premium buyers enjoy early access on May 15, while PS5 players wait until 2026.
- The game introduces new social mechanics like Car Meets and The Estate, enhancing community engagement.
- Pricing tiers cater to different budgets, with the Premium edition unlocking early access and additional car packs.
Overall, Microsoft is positioning Forza Horizon 6 as a comprehensive racing experience that blends exploration, social interaction, and a deep dive into Japanese automotive culture.
