The moment fans have been dreaming of for years is finally here. During the Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2025 broadcast, Forza Horizon 6 was officially announced, confirming that the series’ next destination will be Japan. Developer Playground Games shared the huge news with a cinematic trailer and confirmed a 2026 release window.
Following the event, interviews with Art Director Don Arceta and Cultural Consultant Kyoko Yamashita shed light on many of the burning questions about the game. Here’s everything we know so far about Forza Horizon 6!
Why Japan?
Playground Games emphasized that Japan has long been the most requested location by fans. “Japan has such a unique culture—from its cars and music to its fashion—that provides the perfect atmosphere for a Horizon festival,” said Arceta. He added that with today’s technology, the studio feels it’s the right time to represent Japan with the detail and respect it deserves.
Experience from previous games has also played a critical role. For instance, the Hot Wheels expansion for Forza Horizon 5 provided the team with valuable experience in designing the multi-layered, elevated roads of Tokyo.
What Locations Will Be Featured?
The Forza Horizon series is known for creating maps that capture the spirit of a country rather than being one-to-one replicas, prioritizing gameplay and fun. Forza Horizon 6 will continue this tradition.
While the reveal trailer showcased Mount Fuji and its surroundings, much more awaits. The development team stated they will blend the country’s natural beauty with its urban landscapes. They specifically highlighted that Tokyo will be one of the most detailed and layered city environments they have ever created. The goal is to present the unique cultural essence of Japan in the signature “Horizon style.”
Cultural Authenticity and Realism
Playground Games is working meticulously to ensure Japan is portrayed not just as a visual spectacle, but also with cultural accuracy. To achieve this, Cultural Consultant Kyoko Yamashita was brought on board early in the development process. She stated that the team is focused on avoiding clichés and capturing the country’s “lived-in feel.”
“The team’s goal was to create a living world, not just a postcard or a backdrop,” Yamashita explained. “It requires thousands of small, respectful decisions, from how a neighborhood sounds to what the color of a shop sign communicates.” The aim is for players who have never been to Japan to feel as if they are truly there.
Japanese Car Culture and Seasons
Forza Horizon 6 will put Japan’s rich automotive culture front and center. Players can expect a wide range of vehicles and experiences, from Kei cars to the deep roots of modification and drift culture.
Dynamic seasons, a staple since Forza Horizon 4, will carry a much deeper meaning in Japan. From snowy winters to sweltering summers and, of course, the iconic Sakura (cherry blossom) season, these changes will affect not only the scenery but also the gameplay and overall atmosphere.
Playground Games announced that more details and gameplay footage will be shared in early 2026. The game is now available to wishlist on Xbox and Steam.