Japanese races impress: Microsoft showed the first gameplay footage and revealed the release date of Forza Horizon 6
Microsoft and Playground Games at Xbox Developer_Direct 2026 held the first extensive showcase of the anticipated racing game Forza Horizon 6.
What is known
As announced, the new game for the first time in the series will take gamers to Japan.
Players will start their journey as a tourist, gradually discovering various regions of the country — from megacities to scenic mountain roads and bamboo groves.
During the presentation, viewers were shown the first gameplay footage, an updated weather and lighting system, improved car physics, expanded social features, and open-world activities.
The graphics, detail, and sound accompaniment have reached a new level — each car is meticulously recreated, and the tracks are striking in their variety. It was important for the authors to maintain the authenticity of Japan, its architecture, cultural features, and diversity of climatic zones; judging by the footage, they succeeded.
When to expect
Forza Horizon 6 will be released on May 19, 2026, on PC and Xbox Series, as well as in the Game Pass catalog. The release on PlayStation 5 will take place a little later.
Pre-orders are already open. Buyers of the Premium Edition will receive bonuses, including a racing car, and the opportunity to start the game on May 15.
Source: Xbox Developer_Direct 2026
