Playground Games thought big, very big. For its sixth opus, the British studio has chosen a terrain that is as exotic as it is ambitious: Japan. It’s not a map, it’s a fresco. Misty mountains, pulsating cities, bamboo forests and rural roads under cherry blossoms: Forza Horizon 6 doesn’t just reproduce a setting, it immerses you in it. “This is the densest map ever designed for the series,” promises Playground Games.
More than a racing game: a customizable adventure
With more than 550 vehiclesincluding an impressive number of iconic Japanese models, Forza Horizon 6 does not play the catalog card to impress, but that of mechanical passion. The attention paid to engine sounds, driving dynamics (including a 540° steering wheel rotation), and variety of vehicles promises an ultra-realistic experience.
The objective is clear: to make each player a unique pilot. Evolution goes through modified car collectionthe discovery of second-hand marketsthere property customizationbut also participation in typically Japanese events such as the legendary tōge racespopularized by anime Initial D.
An RPG narrative in a world of engines
Another notable new feature: Forza Horizon 6 integrates a narrative progression RPG style. You start as a stranger to the Horizon world and, mission after mission, you will rise through the ranks until you become a legend. This honorary title will open up exclusive areas to you like Legend Islandsanctuary of the best pilots of the festival. “You will have to travel the country, complete your collection journal and climb the ranks until you achieve the coveted Horizon Legend status,” announces the studio.
Between technical beauty and commercial strategy
Visually, Forza Horizon 6 impresses. The latest images published – 28 seconds without interface or HUD – show dynamic rain streaming down the windshields, realistic light effects on the wet asphalt and Mount Fuji in the background. Playground Games creates a real rolling postcard here.
The game will be available on May 19, 2026 on Xbox Series X|S and PC, with early access via a Premium edition. This version, sold at €59.99 in upgrade, has already raised some eyebrows… but the wait remains high. A PS5 release is also planned for later in the yearsignaling Microsoft’s desire to expand its audience beyond the Xbox ecosystem.