When the Horizon Festival lands next in Japan, it won’t just be for show — this is a deliberate choice. In September 2025, Playground Games confirmed Forza Horizon 6 will be set in Japan and debut in 2026 on Xbox and PC, with a PlayStation 5 release to follow later. Xbox Wire’s FAQ officially confirms the later PS5 version.
Starting with Japan alters expectations. This isn’t just another map — it’s a new canvas for cultural expression, automotive heritage, and next-level world building.
Why Japan? A Dream Setting — And a Huge Map
Japan has long been one of the most requested locales by fans, and Forza Horizon 6 seeks to deliver on that wish with depth and scale. The map is said to be the biggest yet, surpassing the size of Forza Horizon 5. GamesRadar reports that despite the expansion, it remains dense — with content, surprises, and winding roads in every direction.
To help ensure the world feels true, the developers collaborated with cultural consultant Kyoko Yamashita to embed respectful cultural elements in the design (e.g. mix of modern and traditional architecture). GamesRadar covered this step.
Think of this as moving from a generic open-world setting to Japan in Ultra-HD — neon streets, rural passes, mountaintops, coastal roads, and everything in between.
Platform Rollout: Xbox & PC First — PS5 Later
The reveal confirmed that Forza Horizon 6 will launch first on Xbox Series X|S and PC in 2026. That means PlayStation 5 gamers won’t get it day one. Video Games Chronicle notes Microsoft explicitly stated it “won’t come to PS5 at launch.” Meanwhile, Push Square echoes that message: the PS5 version is planned, but only “post-launch.”
This approach mirrors recent Microsoft strategy — release exclusivity first, then expand to other platforms. For example, Forza Horizon 5 eventually launched on PS5, debuting in April 2025. Wikipedia details this timeline.
What Fans Can Look Forward To
- Massive scale & density — Japan’s map is not just large, it’s “full,” with streets, tunnels, side roads, and hidden areas.
- Seasonal shifts & contrast — expect snow in mountains, cherry blossoms in spring, neon-lit nights, and quiet rural drives.
- Tokyo & Mount Fuji are confirmed landmarks, blending metropolitan life with iconic nature scenes (teased in trailer).
- Cultural touches — architecture, signs, design motifs, music — all part of crafting an authentic Japanese vibe.
These features hint at a more mature, immersive Forza experience that leans into narrative, place, and identity — not just fast cars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When exactly will Forza Horizon 6 release?
It’s scheduled for 2026 on Xbox Series X|S and PC, though no exact month has been announced yet.
Q2: Will the PS5 version come at launch?
No — the PS5 version is confirmed to come after launch, though developers haven’t given a timeframe.
Q3: Why pick Japan over other countries?
Japan was the most requested location by fans, and developers wanted to push creative, cultural, and technical boundaries. It’s a chance to bring something fresh to the series.
Conclusion
Forza Horizon 6 is sending Horizon Festival to Japan — a milestone location for the franchise. Launching first on Xbox and PC, with PS5 following later, this reveals Microsoft’s dual strategy: exclusivity + expansion. If the trailers and developer commentary are any indication, the game aims to be both a racing spectacle and a cultural story.
Key Takeaway: Japan isn’t just a new map — it’s a next step in how video games tell place-based stories.