2026 is shaping up to be a busy year for Microsoft's main Xbox game series. Playground Games is gearing up to release the next installment in the Forza Horizon 6 next year, and this time the setting will be Japan. While the announcement of Forza Horizon 6 was expected during Xbox's Tokyo Game Show later today, the official Forza Horizon Instagram account revealed the news earlier this morning with a teaser trailer.
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"Horizon Festival is headed to Japan," reads a description on the Instagram video, also confirming a 2026 release window. The teaser trailer also reveals that Forza Horizon 6 will be available on Xbox Game Pass and as an Xbox Play Anywhere title.
The confirmation of a 2026 release window for Forza Horizon 6 means it's set to be a busy year ahead for Xbox and Playground Games in particular. Xbox head Phil Spencerrevealed earlier this year that the next Forza will be released in 2026, and Forza Horizon 6 will also be accompanied by Gears of War: E-Day, a remaster of Halo CE , and Fable .
Forza Horizon 6 will debut a year after the release of the previous installment, Forza Horizon 5, on the PS5 by Microsoft. The game topped the charts on Sony's PlayStation store and became one of the most popular PS5 games this year.
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Japan, with its unique landscape and rich cultural heritage, provides a stunning backdrop for Forza Horizon 6. Players will have the opportunity to explore iconic landscapes, from bustling cities like Tokyo to tranquil countryside and historic monuments. Playground Games promises to deliver an authentic experience, with attention to detail and accuracy in the representation of Japanese culture and landscape.
The launch of Forza Horizon 6 on Xbox Game Pass means subscribers will have immediate access to the game on launch day, further enhancing the value of Microsoft’s subscription service. Additionally, as an Xbox Play Anywhere title, players will be able to enjoy the game on both their Xbox consoles and PCs, with the ability to sync their progress across platforms.
This announcement comes at a busy time for Microsoft, as the company continues to invest in new releases and upgrades to its existing titles. The return of Fable, the revamp of Halo CE, and the new addition to the Gears of War universe demonstrate Microsoft’s commitment to delivering quality content to its players.
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Forza Horizon 6 is set to deliver a unique driving experience, combining the adrenaline of racing with the exploration of one of the most exciting places in the world. With its release in 2026, racing fans have a lot to look forward to.
